Parque de Santa Margarida

Parque de Santa Margarida is an urban park in A Coruña, built on a former hilltop that has become one of the city's favorite green retreats.

How did this hill become a park?

Long before it turned into a park, this site was simply a knoll on the outskirts of A Coruña, rising to roughly 60 meters above sea level. Windmills once stood on top of it, and traces of them can still be spotted along the walking paths today. As the city expanded, houses and streets gradually surrounded the hill on every side until it was eventually converted into public parkland. For a long stretch of its history it held the title of the largest park in A Coruña, covering an area of more than 51,000 square meters.

What can you see inside the park?

Even though it now sits in the middle of dense urban surroundings, the park has kept the feel of the hill it once was. Pine and eucalyptus trees dominate the landscape, filling the paths with shade and a distinctive scent, especially on warmer days. Following the trails leads to a restored small mansion that, since 1985, has housed the Casa de las Ciencias — a science center with a planetarium equipped with special projectors. The venue runs shows and educational programs designed for visitors of different ages, making it a solid stop whether you're traveling with kids or simply curious about astronomy.

What is there to do with family?

The park was laid out to accommodate several kinds of leisure at once. There's a playground for younger children, an open-air fitness area for adults, and a separate off-leash zone where dogs can roam freely. Large wooded sections offer natural spots for a picnic or a quiet break in the shade, all while the center of A Coruña remains just a short walk away.

When is the best time to visit?

The park is worth a visit at any time of year, but the last weekend of August stands out as its liveliest moment, when the annual romería (pilgrimage) in honor of Santa Margarita takes place. This local celebration draws both residents and visitors, blending a religious tradition with an open-air festival featuring music, food, and communal gathering across the park grounds. Outside that date, the park works as a calm, everyday recreational space, well suited to a morning walk or an afternoon rest.

How do you get there?

Sitting within the city of A Coruña and surrounded by residential neighborhoods, the park is easy to reach on foot or by public transport from most parts of town. Because it occupies a hillside, some access routes involve a short uphill stretch, though the network of paths and steps makes moving around the grounds straightforward.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to the park free? Yes, the park itself is an open public green space. Any fees would apply only to specific shows at the Casa de las Ciencias planetarium, so it's worth checking on-site or with local tourist information beforehand.

Can I bring my dog? Yes, the park includes a dedicated off-leash area where dogs can move around freely.

What is the main attraction besides the walking paths? The Casa de las Ciencias, housed in a restored historic building with its own planetarium, is the standout feature. It's also worth looking out for the remains of the old windmills that once crowned the hill.

When does the park's biggest event take place? The annual romería of Santa Margarita is held on the last weekend of August and marks the busiest, most festive time in the park's calendar.