If you are looking to escape the beaches of the Costa del Sol and enjoy a fun day out for all the family one of the regions most beautiful attractions is the Senda El Retrio Parque botánico y ornitológico (A Ornithological and botanical park) located on the outskirts of Churriana on the A366 at KM88 heading towards Alhaurin De La Torre.

The Park has 42 hectares of stunning flora and fauna. On arrival at the park you are greeted by the sounds of numerous birds and animals surrounded by a spectacular sub - tropical vegetation that is unique to Europe. The history of the park can be traced back to 1669 and many of the trees are over 600 years old. It was declared a National Historical Monument back in 1984

In the park you can walk through birdcages which due to the extensive work of the Park gives you the sense of being in the natural environment of the birds you can see here such as hornbills, toucans, storks, anatidae, etc.. They also have an extensive breading program which is in danger of extinction.

You can also see fishes from freshwater: environments with a wide variety of species from Amazonia and Asia that will surprise you because of their diversity and colour. As well as fishes from saltwater: environments including beautiful corals, anemons and other sea environments are the ideal area for the more important and fascinating fishes

You will also find some beautiful animals such as zebras, giraffes, capybaras and antelopes. and reptiles including Anaconda snakes, varanus, lizards, etc from around the world all living in environments that live in open areas allowing you to really get close to them and learn about their natural habitat and the animals that live there.

As you walk around the park you will notice that water plays an important role in the set up of the environment and is a common element in the path: waterfalls, historic fonts, lakes, rivers, rains, storms… Etc…All of which add to the atmosphere of the park.

The Park has other facilities such as a shop, restaurant and snack area, toilets and pram rental which all add to the enjoyment of this popular tourist attraction

One piece of advice it is worth getting there early and spend the whole day as they stop selling tickets 4 hrs before the park closes. It is open Daily 16th Sept - 15th May 10.00 - 18.00 and 16th May - 15th Sept 10.00 - 20.00

Costs Adults 20€, Children (4-9), Senior Citizens (over 60) and Disabled Persons 15€
If you travel in a group of 20 Persons or more the Prices are as follows:
Adults 17.50€, Children (4-9), Senior Citizens (over 60) and Disabled Persons 12.25€

The park has a very good website and is soon going to be offering on line booking facilities