Madrid Retiro Park Segway Tour

This small group tour of approximately one hour will allow you to discover the Retiro, a large green area in the heart of Madrid. Originally, the park was exclusively for the nobility until it was opened to the public in 1868.

To make it easier to get around, the itinerary is done on a Segway and includes a short training session before setting off for the pond, the Crystal Palace and the other attractions. Throughout the tour, you will be able to listen to the explanations of an expert guide. The list below lists the main stages:

• Puerta de Felipe IV - The baroque entrance to the Retiro. It was designed by the architect Mechor de Bueras in the 17th century. It was originally located near the Monasterio de los Jerónimos and was moved to its present location two centuries later.
• Parterre Garden - The Retiro area is characterised by geometrically shaped plants and shrubs. It is also home to the ahuehuete, the oldest tree in the capital.
• Estanque Grande and Monument to Alfonso XIII - This picturesque artificial lake was built in the first half of the 17th century by Cristóbal de Aguilera. In the past it was complemented by a canal that led to another lake inside the park, which has now disappeared. Behind it is the group of columns and statues that make up the monument to Alfonso XII.
• Palacio de Cristal - An elegant glass and steel building. It was built to house tropical plants from the Philippines.
• Royal Astronomical Observatory - Located in the south-eastern part and was built at the request of Jorge Juan, a sailor and man of science. Inside is a reconstruction of a reflecting telescope that was destroyed during the Napoleonic occupation.