THE Valencian Community It is a very popular summer destination, famous for its magnificent coastlines. However, its beauty is not limited to the coastline, as the interior also offers hidden treasures. Only a few kilometers from Montgó Natural Parkin the municipality of Pedreguer (Alicante), is the Albarda Gardena remarkable example of Diversity of Mediterranean landscapes in Valencia. This garden is a true paradise for nature loveras it combines classical geometry with Renaissance-inspired design. Created by Valencian businessman Enrique Montoliu in the 1990s, under the Enrique Montoliu Foundation (Fundem), it became a symbol of conservation and sustainability.
One of the most notable areas is that greenhouse, designed in the form of an amphitheaterwhere around 250 species of plants are exhibited. Although originally designed as an auditorium, it has become one of the most visited points in the garden. Over time, flower beds were created and orange, lemon and other trees were planted. ornamental trees. Getting to the Jardin de L’Albarda is very simple. From Alicante or Valencia you can take the AP-7 highway and follow the directions to Pedreguer, with a journey that takes about an hour and a quarter from Alicante and just over an hour from Valencia.
The Garden of L’Albarda, a hidden gem in Valencia
The Jardin de L’Albarda extends over several hectares and has been carefully designed to promote biodiversity and conserve native flora. Enrique Montoliu, a Valencian businessman passionate about nature, was behind its creation in the 1990s, under the auspices of the Enrique Montoliu Foundation (Fundem). Since its inauguration, the garden has become a symbol of sustainability and environmental conservation, providing a space where nature and architecture meet in perfect harmony.
One of the most striking characteristics of L’Albarda is its commitment to diversity of plant species. This Valencian garden is home to around 250 different species, many of which are native to the region. This variety not only beautifies the environment, but also plays an essential role in preserving local biodiversity. Botanical enthusiasts visiting the garden will be able to discover a rich collection of plants including orange and lemon trees, as well as more exotic species, all carefully arranged in a design that reflects the influence of classical geometry.
Design and structure
The Jardin de L’Albarda stands out for its design inspired by Renaissance gardenswhich presents different curated spaces, each with its own identity and charm. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a paved path that leads them to different sections of the garden. One of the main attractions is the amphitheater-shaped greenhouse, inaugurated in 2005, which houses an impressive collection of plants that flower throughout the year, benefiting from adequate ventilation and natural light.
The garden also has flower beds planted with orange treeslemon trees, holm oaks, pomegranate trees and cypress trees, which reflects a deep respect for the agricultural landscape of the region. The tops of some trees are carved into spherical shapes and columns, creating a fascinating visual play around a mirror fountain inspired by the Alhambra in Granada.
Likewise, the strategic use of water in fountains and ponds not only waters the plants, but adds a visual and audio component that enriches the experience, creating a most relaxing environment. The water features attract various species of wildlife, transforming the garden into a a dynamic and sustainable ecosystem.
Visit
The Jardín de L’Albarda offers different entrance prices depending on the day of the week. Monday to Fridaygeneral entry for those aged 14 and over is €7, while junior visitors, aged 7 to 13, can enter for €4. Additionally, children under 6 years old enter free, as do members, who do not have to pay anything.
On the other hand, prices change during the weekends and public holidays. Nowadays, general admission for adults is €9 and juniors can enter for €5. As during the week, children aged 0 to 6 and members benefit from free access.
Finally, it should be noted that on days when concertsThe entrance fee is €15, and a reservation is required to attend these events.
In short, the Jardín de L’Albarda is an exceptional destination in Valencia, which combines the natural beauty with a strong commitment to sustainability and biodiversity conservation. Its Renaissance design, combined with the rich variety of plant species, offers visitors a unique experience that celebrates Mediterranean flora. This garden combines natural beauty and sustainability, creating an ecosystem that invites reflection on environmental conservation.
