3. Englischer Garten
The Englischer Garten (English Garden) is one of the largest urban parks in the world, located in Munich, Germany. It was created in 1789 by Sir Benjamin Thompson, an American-born British physicist and military engineer, the Englischer Garten was initially designed as a public park for the citizens of Munich. It covers an area of over 900 acres (370 hectares), the Englischer Garten is larger than New York City’s Central Park and is one of the largest urban parks in the world. The park features sprawling green spaces, meadows, wooded areas, and picturesque waterways, including the Eisbach River, which runs through the park and forms a popular surfing spot. Visitors at the Englischer Garten can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including walking, jogging, cycling, picnicking, sunbathing, and boating on the park’s lakes and streams.
Within the park, there are several monuments and landmarks, including the Monopteros, a Greek-style temple offering panoramic views of the city; the Japanese Teahouse; and the Chinese Tower, a pagoda-style tower housing a beer garden. Also, the Eisbach River in the Englischer Garten is famous for its stationary wave, which has become a mecca for river surfing enthusiasts from around the world. Surfers can be seen riding the wave year-round, even in the winter. The southern section of the park, known as the “Schwabinger Bach,” is designated for naturism (nudism) and is popular among sunbathers seeking a clothing-optional experience. Adjacent to the Englischer Garten is the Munich Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten München-Nymphenburg), which showcases a diverse collection of plants from around the world. The Englischer Garten offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing visitors with ample opportunities to relax, explore, and enjoy nature in the heart of Munich.