Parque Miguel Hernández

Parque Miguel Hernández is the main urban park of Vilagarcía de Arousa, laid out on the former Fexdega market grounds right next to Avenida de la Marina. At nearly 18,000 m², it is the largest green space in the municipality and a natural stop for both locals and visitors exploring the Rías Baixas coast.

How do you get there?

The park sits right in the center of Vilagarcía de Arousa, next to the marina (puerto deportivo), linked to it by a promenade running along Avenida de la Marina. From the train and bus stations it's a short walk of about ten to fifteen minutes — the town is compact, so a car isn't necessary. Public parking is available nearby, and the park's position along the main seafront avenue makes it easy to find even on a first visit.

What will you see?

The park was designed by architect Eugenio Jiménez Passolas and divided into eight distinct zones that flow into one another. Among them is El Bosque, a shaded area planted with oaks, alders, willows and chestnut trees — a good spot for a quiet walk or reading on a bench. Next to it lies el Laberinto, where a bubbling fountain and small pond sit alongside a children's play area.

One of the park's most recognizable spots is la Plaza de las Palmeras, an open square with eight striking palm trees brought from Elche, home to a sculpture by Vilagarcía-born artist Emilio Mosquera dedicated to the poet Miguel Hernández, after whom the park is named. La Pradería offers an English-style lawn ringed by slender cypress trees, a pleasant place for a picnic or simply lying on the grass. The park also includes la Elipse and el Jardín de las Camelias, where camellias typical of Galician gardens bloom in season.

The layout caters to a wide range of visitors: there are two children's playgrounds plus an outdoor fitness area for adults, several fountains, paved walking paths, and a dedicated bike lane running through the grounds. The park was built between 2001 and 2002 at a cost of around 1.3 million euros, as part of the redevelopment of the old Fexdega market site.

When should you visit?

The park is worth visiting year-round, but spring and early summer are when the greenery — especially in El Bosque and the camellia garden — looks its best. Mornings are quiet and ideal for walking or running, while afternoons and evenings bring families out to the playgrounds. In summer, the shade under the trees of El Bosque offers a welcome break from the sun after a day at one of Arousa's nearby beaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is entry to the park free? Yes, Parque Miguel Hernández is a public municipal park, open free of charge every day.

Is it suitable for children? Yes, it has two separate children's playgrounds, and the quiet paths and pond around the labyrinth area make it pleasant for family walks.

Where does the park's name come from? It honors the Spanish poet Miguel Hernández, commemorated by a sculpture created by local artist Emilio Mosquera on the Plaza de las Palmeras.

Can I combine a visit with a walk along the seafront? Yes, the park borders the marina and Avenida de la Marina, so it's easy to extend your walk along Vilagarcía de Arousa's waterfront.