Ode to El Retiro Park

Ode to Retiro

While Alisa was away at ETSI building devices, writing proposals, and meeting new colleagues, the kids and I were left to our own devices.

That device was, primarily, the stroller.  

The hassle of packing in and clearing it through security was well worth it as I could buckle Lanna into the front and Sammy or Joey (or both) could hang out in the back section has been incredibly helpful as we tour around Madrid.

Our apartment is just a few blocks away from Parque del Buen Retiro.

I have come to love Retiro for its beauty, design, and wealth of playgrounds.  As it is named, it is a place of pleasant retreat and it is just a short stroll from our apartment.

It's been present since the mid-1500's for the royal family and open to the public since 1767.  Thank goodness for that!

The boys love it for the countless ice cream stands, the numerous pigeons to chase, and the wealth of playgrounds.

Much of our days have been spent in Retiro.  There is always something new to see or experience.  I have loved our time there.

One of the most quintessential views of Retiro are shots across the small lake at the impressive statue across the way with the small lake dotted with the bright blue boats that you can rent.  As noted in a prior post, the boys and I had gone to sea while Sydney spent time with Lanna.  That was the last of our seagoing days as I couldn't bring myself to row the two boys with Lanna in the baby bjorn.  Alisa strongly seconded to remain on dry land.

The lake is filled with karp and they often come up to the surface or flip themselves into the air before splashing back in.

The boys really enjoyed the view from the monument.

There are four lions above and four women below, each riding a different sea creature.  Joey got himself acquainted with all the ladies, while Sammy mainly focused on the one with the turtle.

For those of who haven’t seen it, Sammy can do an impressive turtle face.  He’s and Joey are doing it here with the turtle statue (which pales in comparison to the real thing).

The cental point of the monument is the tower, dedicated to King Alfonso XII.

We took many of the different entrances into Retiro and each displayed a different beauty.  My favorite were the ones right across from the Prado Museum with a variety of beautiful trees and fountains.  This is the view from the top looking back towards the entrance.

And with the kids up top, looking back.

We stayed in that garden one morning for small brunch and felt very much at peace in this beautiful place.

Mostly, however, the kids were thrilled about chasing pigeons (which could be found pretty much everyone) or the more exotic black and white birds that were seen flitting across the park or hanging out in the green.

We also found that Retiro has playgrounds nestled everywhere with tall, shady trees and benches encircling them.  The playgrounds here have soft sand with slides, swings, little climbing rock walls, and netted ropes as a staple.  The kids had an absolute blast exploring all of the options.

And when they’ve tired of the playground and need a boost of energy, what better than a popsicle!  Cool, refreshing, and only about 10,000 varieties to choose from.  Its hard to walk more than a 100 feet in Retiro Park without finding a popsicle stand. 

Joey has focused on the “jet” style popsicles while Sammy is an aficionado of all things Calippo.

By the time we’re ready to return to the apartment, the kids exhausted with popsicle mustaches.  It’s so invigorating and enjoyable as we stroll amidst the sunbathers near the water, those sitting at one of the many open air restaurants enjoying a beverage, all the others walking the broad path while the musicians scattered throughout adding hints of trumpet and accordion echoing in the bright afternoon sunlight.