Parque Forestal, Melilla

Parque Forestal is the largest municipal park in Melilla, the Spanish enclave on the North African coast. Set in the southern part of the city along the Alfonso XIII road, right next to the Real district, it serves as the main green lung for the whole autonomous city.

Where exactly is the park located?

The park occupies the former grounds of the Granja Agrícola, an agricultural experimental farm established back in 1907, during the era of the Spanish protectorate in Morocco. Land once used for crop trials was later converted into an urban recreational space. The park was formally opened under its current name, Parque Forestal Juan Carlos I Rey, in 2007 during the term of president Juan José Imbroda Ortiz, timed with a royal visit to the city.

What is there to see?

Covering roughly six hectares, the park is often described as one of Melilla's "botanical lungs" — one of the few spots in the city where greenery outweighs buildings. Tree-lined paths, lawns, and shaded rest areas give visitors a way to step out of the urban bustle without leaving the city limits. The park draws families with children, joggers, and anyone looking for a quiet place to walk after work or on weekends.

The children's play area deserves special attention. In recent years the park gained Melilla's first fully inclusive playground — a facility spanning more than 600 square meters and fitted with 16 different pieces of equipment, including swings, trampolines, and seesaws adapted for children with disabilities. This is a rare feature for a city this size and sets the park apart from Melilla's other green spaces.

How do you get there?

The park sits in the southern part of Melilla, near the Real district, making it easy to reach on foot from the city center or by local transport. Given how compact Melilla is overall, getting here from almost anywhere in the city usually takes no more than fifteen to twenty minutes.

When is the best time to visit?

The park can be visited year-round, but thanks to Melilla's Mediterranean climate, spring and autumn offer the most pleasant conditions, with milder temperatures than the height of summer. Late afternoons and early evenings are when the park comes alive, as locals arrive for walks and to let their children play.

Who is this park for?

Parque Forestal is best suited to families traveling with children and to anyone wanting a break from Melilla's urban architecture, which is best known for its modernist landmarks and historic old town. The park makes a natural stop after a day of sightseeing — a quiet walk among greenery to unwind before heading back into the city.

Frequently asked questions

What is the park's official name? Its full name is Parque Forestal Juan Carlos I Rey, given in 2007 in honor of the King of Spain during his visit to the city.

How big is the park? It covers roughly six hectares, making it the largest green space in Melilla.

Is the park accessible for children with disabilities? Yes, it features a fully inclusive playground spanning over 600 square meters with 16 pieces of equipment adapted to different needs.

Is entry to the park free? Yes, Parque Forestal is a public municipal park that can be visited free of charge year-round.