Parque de Los Pinos

Parque de Los Pinos is a municipal park in Plasencia, a town in northern Extremadura, and it works as a green retreat right beside the historic old quarter.

Where is the park and how do you get there?

The grounds sit between Avenida de Extremadura, Calle del Fuero and Avenida de la Hispanidad, just outside the old walled town. From the main square it's an easy walk of about fifteen minutes, which makes the park a natural stop after touring the cathedral or wandering the medieval streets. The land itself is noticeably hilly, climbing from 380 metres up to 415 metres above sea level, so a walk through the park also delivers a few open views over the rooftops and surrounding countryside.

What is there to see inside?

Covering roughly five hectares, the park works partly as a botanical garden and partly as an open-air mini zoo. Native trees dominate the planting — ash, pine, holm oak and cork oak — mixed with other ornamental trees and shrubs typical of this part of Spain. Paths wind between ponds and enclosures where ducks, geese, storks, herons, cranes and even flamingos live.

Birds and animals to look out for

Bird counts here have topped one hundred species, which makes the park a genuinely rewarding stop for anyone interested in local wildlife rather than just a stroll in the shade. The best-known residents, though, are the peacocks — the colony includes a number of albino, pure-white birds that are a particular favourite with children and a common sight for photographs.

A brief history

In 1991, the regional government of Extremadura granted the site official status as a "núcleo zoológico" (zoological nucleus), formalising its role in housing and displaying animals. Several structures inside the park date back to the mid-20th century and were built using forced labour by prisoners held after the Spanish Civil War — a difficult chapter of local history that is still visible in the older stonework along the paths.

When is the best time to visit?

The park stays open year-round and suits a relaxed walk, a rest under the trees, or a family outing built around seeing the animals up close. Spring and autumn bring milder temperatures than the often intense summer heat of Extremadura, making those seasons more comfortable for a longer walk through the whole grounds. The park is occasionally closed for maintenance or after storms and strong winds, while crews check and secure the tree cover, so it's worth confirming it's open before making a special trip.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? No, Parque de Los Pinos is a public municipal park and entry is free for everyone.

Is it a good place to bring children? Yes, the colony of peacocks — including the striking albino birds — along with the waterfowl and easy, flat paths make it one of the most popular family spots in Plasencia.

How long does a visit take? Walking the main paths and stopping at the animal enclosures typically takes between 45 minutes and an hour and a half, depending on pace.

Is the park close to Plasencia's town centre? Yes, it's within walking distance of the old town, so a visit fits easily alongside the rest of a sightseeing route through the city.