C dels Germans Desvalts,
Mundet

The beautiful formal gardens of the 18th century Torre Sobirana were private until 1971, when its owners swapped them for a more central site on the Diagonal. A cypress maze forms the heart of the garden, surrounded by temples, pools and cascades. Well worth the trip despite its somewhat edge of town location.

One of Barcelona's most romantic settings, the map of these gardens reads like a menu for 'amour' -- The Love Canal, the statue of Eros in the labyrinth, the romantic garden, the cascade and the temples of love.

Meander effortlessly amongst its trees and pathways, recline on the edge of cooling stone pools, or lose yourselves in the high walled maze -- where the many dead-ends are the perfect excuse for a smooch.

Loving couples want the park to themselves -- so should avoid the busy weekends, when everyone and their grandmothers make the trip.

contributor: Nigel Hayler