Prado de las Pavas

Prado de las Pavas is a botanical garden and municipal park in Benavente, in the province of Zamora, Castile and León. It occupies the grounds of the former gardens of the Counts of Benavente, on an island ringed by the Canal de las Molineras, also known locally as the Ría de Don Felipe.

Where exactly is Prado de las Pavas?

The park sits on the so-called Isla de las Pavas, off Calle Camino de los Pimentel, within easy reach of Benavente's historic centre. The channel that wraps around the island gives the park a distinct identity as a green pocket right inside the town — a few minutes from the old castle and the medieval quarter on one side, bordered by water and woodland on the other.

What is there to see inside the park?

The botanical garden was laid out on the site of the old aristocratic gardens and organised to showcase the plant diversity of the whole province of Zamora, split into sections that mirror its traditional regions. The area representing Sanabria holds chestnut, walnut and oak trees; the Aliste section is dominated by holm oaks; Tierra del Vino contributes almond trees; Sayago is represented by junipers and olive trees; and Tierra del Pan appears through its characteristic pines. A strip of riverside vegetation — elms, poplars and alders — runs along the canal itself. Every species carries an identification label, turning a walk through the paths into an informal lesson in the region's plant life. The grounds also include a small greenhouse used for growing plants and a pond where traditional, low-impact fishing methods once practised along the river are illustrated for visitors. In summer, a shaded picnic area (merendero) opens to the public and is a popular spot for locals looking to escape the heat.

How do you get there, and when is the best time to visit?

The park is within comfortable walking distance of central Benavente, so arriving on foot or by bike is the simplest option — the grounds themselves are car-free, so any vehicle has to be parked on the surrounding streets. Entry is free, and the gates stay open from early morning until evening, with longer hours in summer than in winter. Spring and early summer are the most rewarding times to visit, when the plants are in bloom and the greenery is at its densest, though the autumn colours of the deciduous trees are worth seeing too. The walking route is signposted and suits both independent visitors and organised groups; schools and institutions can arrange a guided tour in advance.

Where does the name come from, and what is the history behind it?

The land making up today's park once belonged to the renowned gardens of the Counts of Benavente, one of the region's most prominent noble houses. After years of neglect, the site was revived: the project was drawn up in 2009 with the support of European FEDER funds, and the botanical garden itself formally opened in early February 2010. The grounds are now managed by Benavente's town council and serve a dual purpose as an educational resource and a public recreational space.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Prado de las Pavas free? Yes, access to the park and its botanical garden is free for all visitors.

How long does a visit take? A relaxed walk along the signposted route, stopping to read the plant labels, usually takes between 45 minutes and an hour and a half, depending on your pace.

Can you book a guided visit? Yes, the park offers guided group visits, aimed especially at schools, institutions and organised groups, available by arranging it in advance.

Is there somewhere to eat inside the park? Yes, a shaded picnic area operates in summer and is a favourite spot among Benavente residents for resting in the shade of the trees.