Everyone can see that trying to ride a bike through the center of Barcelona (even with the now, growing number of bike paths) is a bit of a challenge and can be a nerve racking experience. Even though we are faced with these difficulties, we can not give up on enjoying a smooth, relaxing cruise on the good ol bicycle. One way to sneak in a few relaxing trips without having to deal too much with traffic is to take off up Avinguda Diagonal towards Camp Nou and pass through Parc del Palau Reial de Pedralbres.

 
Diagonal, which is now equipped with large two lane bike paths, that are not incorporated into the street but mixed in with the sidewalks off to the side makes taking a bike ride into a smooth sunny afternoon experience. After you take off from near Placa Francesc Macia you can cruise for kilometers upon kilometers without the worries of being ever so politly ran over by a frantic late business person.
After you pass Place Reina Maria Cristina and enter into the university area you will see a large stone wall with statues and flowers off to your right. This is the beginning of Parc del Palau Reial de Pedralbres which house Palau Reial de Pedralbres and two museums, Museu de Ceramica and Museu de les Arts Decoratives (Interior Decoration). As you enter you will see just how well the city takes care of this hidden park in the “high standing” area of Barcelona. With lots of grass, big trees, and lovely sculptures throughout you will easily find a great spot to enjoy a small picnic, take in the sun or snuggly up to that one who treats you right and show a little public affection. During the fall and spring this park, being almost surrounded by university, the park transforms into a mass of group study gatherings, and students taking a quiet break from class. For all us young single folks, this small island of calmness right next to the university just might be a great place to meet our better half. If you have small children, the park even comes equipped with a nice little playground perfect for all the little rug rats out there.

 
The Museu de Ceramica is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10-18:00 and Sundays from 10-15:00 . You can get any information you might need at 93 280 16 21. The Museu de les Arts Decoratives has the same hours but if you want to call to find out any information you need to call 93 280 50 24.