Devesa Park-Girona

The Devesa Park is not only the largest public park in Catalonia but also one of the nicest. Very close to Girona city centre it is easily accessible on foot and well worth exploring anytime. In the 1860's some 3,500 plantains were planted which now reach up to 60m high and provide long avenues with plenty of shade which are a perfect refuge for the hot days of summer. Bordered on one side by the River Ter with a nature walk on the other bank and with some important cultural buildings included in its borders the Devesa has something for everyone. Twice a week on tuesdays and saturdays there is the main outdoor fruit and vegetable market with all the vivid colours and hustle and bustle that brings. There are public tennis courts and a municipal swimming pool as well as a couple football pitches and an area used for volleyball which is especially full on the weekends with south americans. Dog-walkers, joggers, picnickers and parents teaching their kids how to ride bikes or kick a ball around or play on the swings, there is never any shortage of things happening. The cultural aspects take place in the"Carpes"which are temporary outdoor bars built in the middle of the park where live music is played some nights during the season(may-sep) and then the more permanent concerts of the Auditori a new modern concert hall which seats up to 700 people in comfort and has excellent acoustics and an international list of performers.