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Nestled in the heart of Benalmádena, Spain, is the aptly named Parque de la Paloma or Dove Park. It is home to a huge number of doves, parrots and several other bird species, that fly about freely, unafraid and often bold.
The large entrance gates are thrown wide open welcoming visitors throughout the day. In the bright sunshine of the Costa del Sol it is a gorgeous respite. Typical of the Mediterranean climate, the park is not overly green, although it has tree-lined walkways and carefully planned paths.
Opened in 1995, this green oasis spans over 200,000 square meters and is also a focal point for both tourists and locals alike and offers a calm escape from the urban bustle of Benalmádena.
It was a warm winter’s day when we visited Paloma Park but unlike spaces in frigid Northern Europe, Malaga, known for its distinctly generous winter, was perfectly suited to a curious discovery walk outdoors. We came across a huge array of different birds many of which flew about freely. On the lakes, ducks, moorhens and swans gathered, as returning locals brought bread and bird food for them.
The park itself has an impressive array of trees and plants , including over 90 species of palm trees and one of Europe’s richest collections of cacti and succulents, featuring more than 2,000 specimens from over 450 different species. More about the Cactus Garden below.
Key Features
The park is huge by common standards, but its available space is well designed and well used by its many visitors, many of whom are locals on their daily exercise routine and dog walkers. Among its main attractions are:
Artificial Lake
At the centre of Paloma Park lies a large artificial lake, home to swans, ducks, a variety of water birds, such as gulls and moorhens, even turtles, and fish. The lake has a large perimeter and dotted around its border are community exercise machines which allow the public to enjoy gym-like facilities for free. The paved path encircling the lake allows visitors to walk around it, admiring the serenity of the walk and the wildlife that visit it daily.
Lily pond
The lily pond with a central reclining statue of a lady is another gorgeous sight. Although we visited in winter, there were a few remaining flowering lilies and some lily-pads. In the summertime, it would be absolutely breath-taking. The pond itself is also home to frogs and turtles. So if you’re visiting, keep and eye out for them. In the summertime, children can rent and race sailboats across the pond.
Cactus Garden
The Cactus garden in the park consists of a dedicated area showcases an extensive collection of cacti and succulents, some towering impressively, making it a must-visit for plant enthusiasts. there is sparse information about each species and few are labelled the collection shows the best of the diversity and variety of the cacti family.
Playgrounds
One of the greatest appeals of the park is its well thought out play areas. These are large areas linked by a rope walkway. The playground cater to a range of ages from the more toddler friendly equipment to a fully designed adventure park. Best of all. entrance to all this is free.
Cafés
There are three on-site cafe’s on location, ranging from the basic to the more up-market , Cafe Bar Europa and the Auditorium Bar (pictured). The Auditorium Bar is a tropical haven snug under lush green trees with both outdoor and indoor seating. There was a wide range of menu and drink choices. Pigeons were tame and often hung about close-by hoping for a nibble of food, but they were not overtly aggressive.
Accessibility
Most of the pathways around the park are paved and level providing ample routes. Unfortunately there are steps and kerbs dotted around, which may prove to be slightly challenging. Some pathways are slightly narrower and the cactus area is more restrictive due to its loose gravel. But overall, it is easily accessible and convenient to get around.
Getting There
Parque de la Paloma is conveniently located within walking distance from both the Arroyo de la Miel train station and the Benalmádena coastline. For those driving, there is ample free parking available near the main entrances. Public transport options include buses numbered 103, 112, or 121, which stop near the park.
Visitor Tips
Best Season to Visit
Spring and early autumn are often the best times to visit. However given the mildness of Costa del Sol’s climate, it is welcoming to walk outdoors most times of the year apart from the hottest days in summer. If you are there over summer, perhaps time your visits in the early mornings or evenings. When we visited, it was in the middle of winter and found that even on a sunny winters day it was a gorgeous walk around a welcoming green space.
Picnics
With large green areas, the park is perfect for picnics. Bring your own picnic blanket, food and cool drinks, set up in the shade under the trees and enjoy a laid-back afternoon in a gorgeous park.
Conclusion
The soothing calm of green, the ease and joy of the birds as they flit to and fro, lakes, fountains, ice-cream stalls and cafes, there’s so much to love about Parque de la Paloma. It is a perfect retreat from the bustle of Benalmadena and a change from the sun, sea and surf.
