Benalmádena’s La Paloma Park is a must-visit for the whole family when traveling to Málaga, especially if traveling with children and looking for activities to do in Malaga.
It is a wonderful park to go with the family, located in Benalmádena, very crowded and complete, with numerous activities to do and plenty of nature to see.
The park was inaugurated in 1995 and has become one of the favorite places of many families and couples from Malaga, and most of the tourists who come on vacation.
It has been chosen as one of the 25 most beautiful parks in Europe according to TripAdvisor, among which we find Barcelona’s Parque Güell or El Retiro in Madrid.
What to see in La Paloma Park in Benalmadena?
La Paloma Park has an area of 200,000 m2, considered one of the largest in Europe, a true paradise in the heart of Benalmádena, next to the beach.
To access the park, there are five different entrances that give access to the large amount of green areas with large extensions of gardens, and in which we can find large trees such as eucalyptus, palms, cypresses, etc., ideal for lying down to rest without burning ourselves with the sun that shines on the Malaga coast.
Its cobbled paths run throughout the park and are ideal for strolling and seeing everything the park offers.
What animals are in La Paloma Park?
To enjoy even more, especially for the little ones, there is a small zoo, areas with animals such as rabbits, parrots, pigeons, dogs, peacocks, chickens, etc. Although perhaps the most striking are the mountain goats, emus, and mouflons, which are in large fenced enclosures.
In the center of La Paloma Park, we find a large lake, where a small waterfall and a stream converge, and where we can spot numerous birds such as ducks, swans, geese, seagulls, as well as turtles and even fish.
ENJOY A GREAT DAY WATCHING ANIMALS IN SEMI-FREEDOM!!
In addition, for the enjoyment of the little ones, the park has children’s playground areas. And don’t worry, while the children have fun, adults can watch over them while having a drink at one of their cafeterias or restaurants.
Have a drink at one of its bars while the little ones enjoy playing, but always keeping an eye on them.
The Cactus Botanical Garden
Another attraction of the Parque de La Paloma is an area where we find cacti and succulent plants; the Cactus Botanical Garden. This garden covers 8,000 m2, where we can find more than 2,200 specimens of about 400 different species, which offer us a journey through different continents.
This cactus collection is considered one of the best in Europe, and guided tours are offered in both Spanish and English.
Inside the Cactus Botanical Garden, we find the Monument to Reading.
What activities can be done in the Parque de La Paloma?
One of the best things the Parque de La Paloma offers are green areas where you can relax and have a picnic, as it is allowed to bring tables, chairs or blankets and enjoy nature.
Throughout the year, concerts, fun activities for children and even outdoor film screenings are held, especially on weekends.
One of the most visited areas within the Parque de La Paloma is the municipal library.
Inside the Botanical Garden of Cacti, activities such as painting pots and planting plants for children are organized.
One of the best activities the park offers, especially for children, is the animals, many of which are in freedom within the enclosure.
Right by the lake, there are four-wheel bike rentals for the whole family.
Can you practice sports in the Parque de la Paloma?
Different sports activities can be done inside the Parque de la Paloma, being one of the best places for running. In addition, there are different exercise machines scattered throughout the park to help us exercise in such an idyllic environment.
Parque de la Paloma hours
Monday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
How to get to Parque de la Paloma?
The Parque de la Paloma is located in the heart of Benalmadena, on the Spanish Costa del Sol. Below are some options to get to the park:
- By car: The park has ample free parking for visitors. From the coastal road (N-340), take the exit towards Benalmadena Costa and follow the signs to the park.
- By public transport: There are several bus lines that connect with the Parque de la Paloma, both from the Arroyo de la Miel train station and from other nearby towns. Available options include the Benalmadena urban buses (M-103 and M-112 lines), as well as the interurban ones (M-110, M-112, M-121, M-124 and M-320 lines).
- On foot: If you are in the Benalmadena Costa area, the Parque de la Paloma is only a few minutes away on foot. There are several pedestrian routes that lead directly to the park, both from the beach and the promenade.
- By bike: The park has a wide network of bike lanes, so it is possible to reach it by bike from any point in the city. In addition, the park has a bike rental service for visitors who wish to use it.
Follow the directions on How to get, here.
