Go for a walk in one of Catalonia’s finest gardens, an elegant expanse of greenery found in a dramatic setting overlooking the sea.
The Santa Clotilde Gardens are a peaceful retreat hidden within the bustling atmosphere of the Costa Brava. Several paths wind through 258,000 square feet (24,000 square metres) of gardens, featuring various trees, vine-covered sculptures and fountains. The beauty found within this historic garden is matched by its spectacular surroundings on a rocky hillside by the sea.
The Marquis of Roviralta, a wealthy doctor with a passion for botany, commissioned the gardens in the early 20th century. Landscape architect Nicolau Maria Rubió i Tudurí designed the gardens in a formal Italian Renaissance style. Rubió i Tudurí is best known for helping to create the famous Montjuic Gardens in Barcelona.
Follow the well-planned pathways that wind through the garden. One of the garden’s defining features is the minimal use of flowers, with the architecture instead incorporating a diverse variety of plants. Admire the contrast between the rich green colours of the foliage and the deep-blue Mediterranean Sea. Although the gardens are a popular attraction, you’ll have no trouble finding secluded corners where you can sit quietly and enjoy the fresh air.
Look for the different types of trees found along the garden’s paths, including cypress, Mediterranean pines and cedar trees. The tees are sparsely spaced, allowing for clear views of the sea between their trunks.
Don’t miss the garden’s graceful staircases, many of which are lined with neoclassical marble statues. Keep an eye out for one of the garden’s most famous features: a lush staircase flanked with mermaid sculptures designed by María Llimona.
The garden’s overlapping terraces, ramps and steps emphasise the natural slope of the landscape. Look for ponds, fountains and springs scattered throughout the garden. Listen to the peaceful sounds of these water features, which can be heard as you stroll through the grounds.
The Santa Clotilde Gardens are a short walk from Lloret de Mar Beach. The opening hours vary by season, so it’s best to check the times before your visit.
