La Granja de San Ildefonso

Bespoke Spanish royalty – located 50 miles from Madrid, in the hills near Segovia, La Granja de San Ildefonso was a summer royal retreat for Spanish monarchs. Built during 18th century, the royal residence was designed in the line of Versailles by French designers Rene Collier and Esteban Bouteloua. King Philip V lived here until the end of his life, the royal church in the compound served as a burial place for the king. The tour of the palace reveals lavishly decorated royal apartments adorned with 17th century paintings by Italian and Flemish artists. Do not miss visiting the 18th century La Granja Royal Glass Factory which stands next to the palace, it used to provide glass decorations to the palace and it is still functional. The highlight of La Granja de San Ildefonso is the magnificent gardens surrounding the baroque palace. The gardens contain statues, decorated vases, and fountains. The abundant water supply from the mountains ensured constant water flow to the "Baths of Diana" grand cascade, and to La Fama fountain which is famous for 40 m high jet. There is no entry fee for the palace. So get out of the hustle bustle of Madrid and enjoy a relaxing day in imperial shadows at La Granja de San Ildefonso.