Jardín Botánico Molino de Inca

Jardín Botánico Molino de Inca is a compact yet lush botanical garden in Torremolinos, in the province of Málaga on Spain's Costa del Sol. Covering roughly 4 hectares, it forms part of the Los Manantiales complex, tucked away right behind the popular Aqualand water park. The garden takes its name from an old water mill — the Inca mill — that stands at its centre and has been rebuilt to work again as a fully functioning flour mill.

What is there to see in the garden?

The restored mill building is the centrepiece of a visit. Since 2003 it has housed a small museum dedicated to traditional grain milling, showing how wheat was once turned into flour using water power. Next to the mill, two historic springs that supplied the area for centuries still flow: the Inca spring and the Albercón del Rey spring. The latter carries particular historical weight, since it was visited by King Alfonso XIII in 1926, an event still marked by a commemorative plaque on site.

Why is the garden known for its palm trees?

Molino de Inca's biggest botanical claim to fame is its palm collection. More than 70 different palm species grow here, making it one of the public gardens on the Iberian Peninsula with the greatest diversity of outdoor-grown palms. Anyone with an interest in plants can wander the paths comparing trunks, crowns and leaf shapes of species native to places as far apart as South America and Southeast Asia.

What makes the Japanese section special?

One of the most distinctive corners of the Los Manantiales complex is its Japanese garden, spanning around 500 square metres. It follows the tsukiyama style, recreating small hills and artificial ponds in the tradition of classical Japanese landscape design. This shaded, tranquil area contrasts with the rest of the park and is a favourite spot for visitors looking to slow down among greenery.

What wildlife can visitors spot?

The garden is also home to birdlife, with around a dozen different species recorded on the grounds, some of which are found nowhere else in Spain. Birdsong mixed with the sound of water running through the old irrigation channels gives the place the feel of a quiet oasis in the middle of touristy Torremolinos, away from the bustle of the seafront promenades.

Where exactly is Molino de Inca located?

The garden sits within Torremolinos, directly beside the Aqualand water park, making it an easy addition to a day out in the city — particularly for families who want to pair a visit to the theme park with a calmer stroll through greenery afterwards.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee for the garden? The garden functions as a municipal park open to visitors within the Los Manantiales complex; it is worth checking opening hours on site, as these can vary by season.

What is the garden's main attraction? The combination of the restored historic water mill with its collection of more than 70 palm species and the compact Japanese garden.

Can visitors see a working mill on site? Yes, the old Inca mill building has been rebuilt and operates as a working display piece alongside a small milling museum.

Where does the water in the garden come from? From two historic springs within the park, Inca and Albercón del Rey, which have long supplied Torremolinos with water.