Rio de Janeiro is a city full of natural amazing locations with extraordinary views. Parque Lage is one of these places. Imagine the green and silent oasis right under the slopes of Corcovado mountain. That’s it. The place is one of these romantic spots perfect for proposals or dates.
Parque Lage is located directly on the outskirts of the Botanical Garden in Rio de Janeiro, the entrance is free. The visitors will find themselves in the wild Jungles surrounded by giant trees and the beautiful historical palace in the center of the park. And if the sky is bright then you will also enjoy amazing view of the statue of the Christ the Redeemer.
The place is perfect spot for those who is looking for combination of architecture and landscaping views.
Read also: Pedra do Telegrafo – the most instagram place of Rio de Janeiro.
History of Parque Lage:
The Parque Lage was built in 1840 by English landscape artist John Tyndale in a beautiful design which is similar to European English style parks however in exotic conditions.
Parque Lage’s main palace with central courtyard, swimming pool and terrace was also built in 19th century in a Roman style.
The place used to be the residence of nobles and aristocrats. Until the 1960s, these lands were a property of the financial magnate Enrique Lage.
In the XX century Parque Lage opened for visitation. Nowadays in the building of the historical mansion there is a school of arts and a cute photogenic cafe, where you may have a nice breakfast or brunch.
Parque Lage is the most visited location by couples in Love as it’s also known by the love story happened here ages ago. Businessman Henrique Lage lived here together with his beloved wife Gabriela Besanzoni, a famous Italian singer. They organized parties around the pool where Gabriela entertained her guests with singing. Henrique renovated the building and left it to his wife.
What to do in Parque Lage?
The park is a perfect place to hide from the bright Brazilian sun in the shadows of giant palms. Let’s see what we can do here?
1. Have a romantic breakfast / brunch / lunch or dinner in the restaurant
This is the main reason to come here. The Plage Cafe is the most beautiful restaurant with the most beautiful view in Rio. It is located by the pool in the central courtyard of the palace and offers an elegant menu and a variety of beverages.
2. Have a picnic in the park
If you are not up to spend money for the restaurant food, than just grab your food and make a picnic. In the park there is a special space where you can easily relax on the grass enjoying your snack.
3. Take a chance to make beautiful pictures
The park is one of the most instagram places in Brazil.
4. Have stroll around the park
Start with a geometric garden in front of the palace. And then lose yourself in the paths of the side gardens of Parque Lage. There you will find a wild old bridge, the beautiful lagoo, aquarium with different species of fishes and natural caves.
5. Hike Parque Lage – Corcovado trail
As you may notice the statue of the Christ the Redeemer is located right above the Parque Lage. So at the back of the park starts the trail to the summit of Corcovado Hill.
The route is visible and well-marked however quite intense and even dangerous as sometimes you need to crawl or pull your body up grabbing chains or tree. The total distance of a one-way trip is 3.5 km and elevation gain 610m. So be ready to get exhausted and wear a comfortable clothes. Also as the trail passes through the forest it’s better to make this hiking together with a guide or experienced person who knows the place.
Information:
- Adress: Rua Jardim Botânico, 414 – Jardim Botânico, Rio de Janeiro – RJ
- Working hours of the park and the restaurant: daily 09:00 – 17:00
- Website link
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