If you are visiting Malaga and the Costa del Sol this Summer and are seeking a change from the beach or golf course, why not pop along to the lovely Parque Paloma (Dove Park) in Benalmadena?
Considered by many to be the best on the Costa del Sol, the park covers over 200,000 sqm of land which has been developed into rolling hills, walkways and green areas.
At the bottom of the park you will find a large man-made lake which is home to many varieties of birds and amphibians including swans, ducks, turtles, seagulls and carp. There are also many other animals roaming the park including beautiful peacocks, hens, pigeons and rabbits.
Near to the top of the park you will find a couple of enclosures which also house Emu’s and mountain goats. It is at this level that you will also find one of two great play areas that the park has to offer, plus a Cactus area which is home to around 400 different specimens.
If you are feeling peckish or thirsty, you may want to head to one of the three bars and restaurants within the park serving everything from coffee, ice creams and lunch time snacks.
What is There to Do?
- Feed the fish, turtles, seagulls and ducks.
- See Peacocks, swans, hens, chickens and even Emu’s and mountain goats in their enclosures.
- Take a leisurely walk and take in the beautiful views.
- Hire a quad bicycle and cycle around the park with the kids.
- Have a picnic.
- Eat and drink at one of the three restaurants.
- Watch a concert at the municipal auditorium at the top of the park.
- View one of 400 different varieties of Cacti that you will find in the Cactus garden.
Is There Anywhere to Eat and Drink?
Yes, there are three bar/restaurants within the park serving refreshments, ice creams and hot snacks.
Are There Toilets at the Park?
Yes, there are toilets and baby changing facilities.
How Much Does it Cost?
Parque Paloma is completely free.
When is it Open?
From 9am to 10pm
Is There Disabled Access?
The park is suitable for wheelchair users but there are a number of steeper areas where wheelchair use may not be appropriate. Most of the lower areas though are just fine.
Where is it?
Parque Paloma is around 100 yards inland from the Benalmadena beach and the windmill roundabout. See our map below.
Avda. Federico García Lorca s/n
Arroyo de la Miel
29631
You may also want to consider Parque la Bateria in Torremolinos.
Images courtesy of Terry Wha , Antonio Ortiz and Zahori on Flickr.
