Parc de Can Solei i Ca l'Arnús

Parc de Can Solei i Ca l'Arnús is one of the largest public parks in Badalona, a coastal city right next to Barcelona. Spread across more than 10 hectares in the upper part of the Casagemes district, it brings together two former private estates into a single, free, year-round green space just above the city center.

Why does the park have two names?

The name refers to two neighboring estates that once stood separately on the hillside overlooking Badalona. Can Solei was originally a farming property with roots going back centuries, used for agriculture and livestock long before it became parkland. Ca l'Arnús takes its name from a 19th-century Barcelona banker who purchased the adjoining plot to build his summer residence. The two properties were only merged into a single municipal park in the early 2000s, giving the site its current combined name.

What is left of the old banker's residence?

The most distinctive section of the park sits on the former residence grounds, laid out as a romantic-style garden typical of wealthy Catalan families in the 19th century. Visitors will find artificial ponds, stone bridges, a grotto and pergolas scattered through the greenery, all built to create a picturesque miniature landscape for strolling and leisure. These features have survived well enough that this part of the park still feels distinctly different in atmosphere from the more open, rural character of the old Can Solei farmland next door.

Why is it often called Badalona's green lung?

Given its size and the density of its tree cover, the park functions as the city's main recreational area and a natural buffer of greenery. It hosts a rich mix of native species alongside ornamental plants introduced during the residence's heyday, giving it more botanical variety than most of the denser, built-up parts of Badalona. For locals, it is one of the few places in the city where you can escape the urban bustle for a couple of hours without leaving town.

Is there a marked route for visitors?

Yes, a nature trail runs through the grounds with information panels identifying the plant species along the way, including their origin, traditional uses and distinguishing features. The route is designed to guide visitors past the most interesting trees and shrubs in a logical order, making it easy to follow for casual tourists and popular with local schools running outdoor lessons here.

How do you get to the park?

The park sits in the upper part of Badalona, in the Casagemes district, a short drive from the city center and from the train stations linking Badalona to Barcelona. Thanks to its good connections to the wider metropolitan area, it makes for a convenient stop both for Badalona residents and for visitors staying in Barcelona who want a quieter, green counterpoint to the city's busier sightseeing routes.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? No, it is a public municipal park and entry is free at all times.

How long does it take to visit? A relaxed walk covering the main areas, including the old residence grounds and the nature trail, typically takes between one and two hours.

Is the park suitable for families with children? Yes, the wide paths, ponds and varied terrain make it a popular spot for family outings and school field trips.

Is there shade available on hot days? A large part of the park is covered by mature trees, so shaded paths are easy to find in summer, especially around the former residential garden.

Can the park be combined with other sights in Badalona? Because of its location in the upper part of the city, it is often visited together with Badalona's town center and its seafront promenade, both a short drive away.