Parque del Agua Luis Buñuel

The Parque del Agua Luis Buñuel is a large park on the banks of the Ebro in the west of Zaragoza, created for the international exhibition of 2008, whose theme was water and sustainable development. The city took the chance to transform an area of farmland and industrial ground on a bend of the river, called the meander of Ranillas, into a modern public space, and the park covers about one hundred and twenty hectares. It is named after Luis Buñuel, the film director born in the Aragonese town of Calanda, who made surreal and satirical films such as Un chien andalou and Viridiana, and who is one of the great figures of Spanish cinema.

The design takes water as its main theme. Canals, lakes, ponds and fountains thread through the park, and there are areas of restored riverside woodland, reed beds and meadows that bring back some of the natural environment of the Ebro, with poplars, willows and tamarisks. Themed gardens show plants from different regions, and there are shady corners, wide lawns and long paths for walking or cycling. Quiet botanical sections contrast with open spaces for play, and there are zones for sports and an adventure area with climbing and extreme sports. As a result, the park suits different moods, from a quiet walk to an active morning. Children enjoy the large play areas, and in summer a beach area by the river draws bathers and sunbathers.

Several of the buildings from the expo are nearby and are worth seeing. The Water Tower, a glass tower with a distinctive shape like a drop of water, is an icon of the site, and the Bridge Pavilion, designed by Zaha Hadid, is a long, curving structure that spans the Ebro and looks like a set of crossing blades. The Palacio de Congresos, the conference centre, and an aquarium dedicated to river life, one of the biggest in Europe, are also close, as is the CaixaForum Zaragoza, an arts centre. Together they give the area the look of a modern landmark district.

The park is easy to reach by bus, bike and car, and it lies some distance from the old centre, so it makes a good outing for people who want green space and a change from monuments. Entry is free, and the park is open all day. The Aljafería Palace is the nearest historic site, and the basilica of El Pilar is a short ride away.

It suits families, cyclists, joggers and anyone looking for a quiet afternoon by the river. Bring sun protection in summer, as shade is uneven.