PARQUE LAGE

A castle and a garden close to the Botanical Garden, in Rio

Full history of this place, both in portuguese and english

Out of mainstream touristic attractions in Rio, this supperb palace located in Jardim Botânico district, is a must-see. 

Originally a sugar mill during colonial times, it now hosts the "Escola de Artes Visuais do Parque Lage" (School of Visual Arts), belonging to Rio de Janeiro State Department of Culture. 

It has a very special garden, with caves and lagoons, where plants are luxurious. A trail leading to Christ the Redeemer begins here, as it is located exactly under the Corcovado mountain. 

Parque Lage is this small castle in the middle of the jungle, just under the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon.
Photo taken from Corccovado.

The palace has a swimming pool inside, where a café serves drinks and snacks for tourists. 

Eventually arts expositions can be held there.

It is possible to combine a visit to Parque Lage with Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas and the Botanical Garden too. This lagoon, surrounded by Ipanema, Leblon and Jardim Botanico districts has bikes and peasant paths surrounding it. 

For more information in portuguese: http://eavparquelage.rj.gov.br/