As a nature buff, I’m constantly on the lookout for spots that provide respite from an urban lifestyle. And Charles River Esplanade, a three-mile park along the south bank of Boston’s Charles River is a surprising oasis in the heart of downtown. I usually prefer to walk through the Boston Public Garden’s Beacon Street exit, crossing past Storrow Drive over the Arthur Fiedler footbridge to get there. One can also rent bikes from the hubway stand just outside the footbridge.

In the spring, cherry blossom trees attempt to cheer winter-stricken Bostonians. But summer is truly there when the esplanade turns into a playground for sun seekers. Lush green trees, sail boats and kayaks on the Charles River, families lounging on endless Sunday afternoons, and runners lapping up miles – the sights are aplenty. Across the river, the Cambridge skyline offers another stunning view. Nearby at the Hatch Memorial Shell, free weekend movie screenings and performances are a common occurrence.

But my favorite thing to do? Sprawling on a picnic blanket and reading under the shade of one of the trees. After all, nothing beats the comfort of a good story in an idyllic setting. Does it?