Green Spaces and Fountains in Porto
If we’re interested in seeing something in Porto, chances are, so are many others. Because of Porto’s size, this can make some places feel very crowded at times. Craving a little more solitude to balance out the busy days, I took the opportunity to seek out some parks and gardens a bit off the beaten path. Here are a few of my favorites.
Jardim das Aguas
One description I read for this garden said it was “a graveyard for abandoned fountains”. How could I not check this out! Although, the fountains may be re-homed, many of them are still working, and a gentle switchback path guides you along to each one.
All fountains have a little blue sign next to them giving the name and some background information (in Portuguese). This is the Fonte do Campo Alegre and it was removed from its original home in 1945.
There are plenty of little rest stops and side paths to follow. I spent some time on that bench just in awe at how old this tree must be (look how thick the trunk is compared to the bench!).
There was no one else visiting the park this day, so I took my time and got to enjoy the small details like these acorn caps resting on a moss topped wall.
And, of course, eventually all fountains (this one is called “Self-Portrait as a Fountain”) and paths lead to another great view of the city.
Parque das Virtudes
A terraced garden park with many twists and turns set along the riverside. A perfect place to find a quiet green corner and catch the sunset. And, of course, stunning views.
Hidden staircases, fountains, half buried buildings. I love terraced parks because you never know what surprises await on the next level.
Parque de São Roque
The Parque de São Roque is situated just behind Casa São Roque, a former mansion which has been renovated into a small art museum.
The backyard of Casa São Roque connects to the park via this staircase, so I snuck down and got a glimpse of the house’s inside through the back windows.
I’m convinced that every Portuguese garden has a little bit of magic. One of the highlights I discovered here is this beautifully maintained hedge maze.
This is just the beginning of the park. There’s much more to explore. There’s the Lake of the 3 Spirits, the Wisteria Pergola, and the Water Mirror to name a few.
Parque de Cidade
Porto’s main city park, also known as the green lungs of Porto. Wide open green with no buildings in site. If you’re short on time, it can also be visited with a bike. Or if you have a lot of time, tie it in with a visit to the beach town of Matosinhos.
Taking a gander at the local geese in the park. There are a number of ponds to enjoy some bird watching.
Can you guess where this leafy corridor leads? This has got to be one of the most impressive entrances to a washroom I have seen. Also, the actual facilities were super nice too.