Granada Parks and Gardens

(Granada, Andalucia, Spain)

Parks and gardens in Granada vary greatly in both size and style and fall into a number of general categories. Royal Gardens in Granada are known locally as 'Jardin Real' and feature formal planting, clipped hedges and topiary. The beautiful and vast Generalife Gardens at La Alhambra fall into this category and are one of the best examples of this type of landscaped garden in Granada.

'Carmen' or 'villa' gardens in Granada are generally much smaller and usually part of a private villa. Often featuring terraces on different levels, together with fountains and less-formal, ornamental planting, Carmen gardens tend to be particularly tranquil spots and are occasionally opened to the public, such as Granada's Cipreses and Purificación


Patio or courtyard gardens in Granada generally refer to the many enclosed gardens located within churches and monasteries, which although small, are often extremely appealing and worth visiting. With flowering trees and seating areas, some of the most popular courtyard gardens in Granada include those at the Santa Isabel La Real and the San Jerónimo Monasteries.

The last main category of gardens in Granada are 'cueva' or 'cave' gardens, individual private gardens which although fairly humble, are maintained with tremendous care and pride by their owners. Many of these gardens are surprisingly impressive and can be easily viewed from the outside.

Generalife Gardens

Address: Real de la Alhambra, Granada, 18009, Andalucia, Spain
Tel: +34 958 220 912
Surrounding the eye-catching Alhambra fortress, the beautiful Generalife Gardens are famous throughout Granada. These landscape gardens are formal and geometric in design, with structured Mediterranean planting and mature trees. Alhambra's Generalife Gardens feature a number of angular pools and fountains, surrounded by colourful planting and fragrant flower borders. The Generalife Gardens also offer many large fruit trees, statues and impressive views.
Open hours: daily - 08:30 to 18:00
Admission: charge, discounts for children