🌟 Discover Madrid: 7 Secret Oases to Explore! 🌿

Madrid, the vibrant Spanish capital, is not only famous for its iconic monuments and bustling nightlife. The city is filled with hidden treasures that invite a more authentic and enriching exploration. By setting aside the classic tourist spots, one can discover secret oases, little-known gardens and parks where nature and art meet, providing a soothing breath in the heart of urban hustle. Discover these seven unexpected retreats that will allow you to experience Madrid in a new light and appreciate its cultural richness.

Madrid, the wonderful Spanish capital, is filled with hidden treasures that often escape the eyes of tourists. While the city is known for its iconic monuments and its vibrancy, it also offers spaces of serenity and greenery where everyone can find refuge. Here are seven secret oases to explore for an authentic and calming experience of Madrid.

Buen Retiro: Madrid’s green lung #

Unmissable despite its popularity, Buen Retiro park is the largest green space in the city, covering 118 hectares. This true open-air museum, created in the 17th century, is a meeting place for locals and visitors alike. Among its 20,000 trees, its colorful rose garden, and its large pond where rowboats float, Buen Retiro provides a perfect escape in the heart of urban hustle. Discovering the statue of the “Fallen Angel,” the only statue dedicated to the devil, will add a touch of mystery to your stroll.

The Arganzuela Greenhouse: a unique botanical corner #

In the heart of an old municipal slaughterhouse lies the Arganzuela Greenhouse, an architectural gem built between 1908 and 1928. With its 7,100 m², this garden houses an impressive collection of 9,000 plants, including cacti and orchids, spread across different microclimates. Upon entering this greenhouse, one is transported into a fascinating botanical world where every nook reveals natural wonders, perfect for nature lovers.

El Capricho Park: the whim of a duchess #

Located in the Alameda de Osuna neighborhood, El Capricho Park is an oasis of beauty and tranquility that is little known. Created by the Duchess Doña María Josefa Pimentel, this romantic garden is home to mysterious sculptures, a Bacchus kiosk, and a laurel maze. With its fountains and winding paths, this park is the perfect place for a contemplative walk, away from the crowds.

The Prince of Anglona Garden: a hidden gem #

In the old quarter of La Latina lies a neoclassical treasure, the Prince of Anglona Garden. This small garden, enclosed by tall brick walls, offers a peaceful setting for a brief escape. Its cross-shaped flower bed and boxwood hedges will transport you into a world of elegance in the midst of a lively neighborhood. In spring, the roses ignite the garden, making the visit even more enjoyable.

Huerto de las Monjas: a spiritual garden #

At the Huerto de las Monjas, nature and history meet. This 17th-century garden, once a vegetable garden for nuns, retains a serene atmosphere. At the center stands a fountain adorned with bronze cherubs, perfect for stopping for a moment, reading a book, or simply enjoying the lush surroundings. Accessible despite its privatized appearance, it invites relaxation and meditation.

Atocha Station: an unexpected tropical garden #

The Atocha Station, known for being a nerve center of Madrid’s transport, hides within it a lush botanical garden. Under its exceptional atrium, you will discover over 7,000 plants native to the tropics. This green space offers a magical pause within a place often associated with the hustle of travel. Lose yourself among the ponds and turtles that inhabit this true urban ecosystem.

The Gardens of the Sorolla Museum: a source of inspiration #

Finally, the Gardens of the Sorolla Museum will immerse you in the world of the famous Impressionist painter. Surrounded by its Andalusian-style garden, every corner is an invitation to admire the beauty of nature. The fountains and rose bushes evoke the Alhambra of Granada, adding a touch of magic and art to your visit. This place is both a tribute to Sorolla’s creativity and a haven of peace.