Parc de Can Vidalet

Parc de Can Vidalet is the most important urban green space in Esplugues de Llobregat, a town right next to Barcelona, and one of the most recognizable historic gardens in the region's metropolitan park network. A visit here mixes a walk under old oaks and pines with a bit of 19th-century family history that shaped the grounds.

Where does the name come from and what's its history?

The estate was bought in 1863 by the merchant Josep Vidal i Ribas. Between 1864 and 1865 he had a summer tower built on the property, which locals nicknamed "Can Vidalet" — the origin of the park's current name. The family laid out the surrounding hillside as a romantic-style garden, with a small lake as its centerpiece. The estate stayed in private hands for over a century until the 1970s, when the gardens passed to the town council and opened to the public as a municipal park.

What will you see there?

The heart of the park is a lake surrounded by lush vegetation, overlooked by a neoclassical temple — a faithful reproduction of the original structure from 1897. Mature oaks and pines ring the water, giving the whole area the feel of an old residential garden. Beyond the water and greenery, the park holds a small palace, a former laundry house, a pond, and a children's playground. Dogs are welcome, which sets it apart from many nearby city parks.

When to visit and how much time to plan?

The park is open every day, with hours that shift by season: 8am to 7pm from November to March, 8am to 8pm in April, May and October, 8am to 9pm in June and September, and 8am to 10pm during the long days of July and August. A relaxed walk around the lake and temple takes about 30–45 minutes, but families with children or a picnic in mind should plan for two to three hours.

How do you get there?

The park sits at carrer del Molí 104-108 in Esplugues de Llobregat, right next to Barcelona. It makes an easy afternoon trip from the city center — the ride typically takes fifteen to twenty-five minutes by public transport or car, depending on where you start in Barcelona.

Who is this park for?

Can Vidalet suits families with young children thanks to its playground, visitors looking for a quiet green walk, and anyone chasing a good photo by the lake and temple. It's also a solid pick for a picnic under old trees, away from the bustle of the big city despite sitting so close to it.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to the park free? Yes, Parc de Can Vidalet is a public municipal park — entry is free, and it's open every day with hours that vary by season.

Are dogs allowed? Yes, the park is dog-friendly, which distinguishes it from several other city gardens in the area.

Where does the name "Can Vidalet" come from? It comes from the summer tower built between 1864 and 1865 by the merchant Josep Vidal i Ribas, which locals nicknamed "Can Vidalet."

What is the park's main highlight? The lake with its neoclassical temple, a reproduction of the 1897 original, surrounded by mature oaks and pines — the most distinctive view in the park.