If the kids are getting fidgety, there’s one sure-fire remedy that’s bound to work. And it doesn’t involve staring into a tablet. A trip to Germany’s largest theme park is just the ticket to keep the youngsters entertained. Yet with exhilarating roller coasters and fun-fuelled water rides, this ain’t just for the little ones. It’s a thrilling day out for all the family. You’ll soon be soaring — as will your adrenalin — on some incredible themed rides. From flying horses to seafaring sailboats, here are the best things to do in Europa Park.
1. Travel the High Seas on the Atlantic SuperSplash
Nothing puts a smile on kids’ faces like getting splashed. And as its name suggests, the Atlantic SuperSplash does the job in style. Ever wanted to explore the depths of the Atlantic Ocean? Well, now’s your chance. You’ll become seafaring adventurers for the day onboard the Santa Marian, a giant sailboat. But this isn’t any ordinary boat ride. After all, you’ll spin around 30 meters above ground level before plunging into the water — backward. Just make sure to hold on tight (you’ll speed along at 80 km per hour).
2. Jump onboard a flying bus
It’s straight out of a fantasy movie. Then again, everything at Europa Park feels vaguely magical. But flying on a London bus — that’s pretty special. In ordinary life, there’s no better way to see the sights than on a bus journey. Yet when that bus climbs to heights of 7 meters, the views are awe-inspiring. There’s a high chance of missing your stop, though (it rotates ten times per minute).
3. Splash through roaring rapids on a raft
With its backdrop of towering fjords, you could be excused for thinking you were in Scandinavia. But the Fjord Rafting ride is far from a leisurely sightseeing trip. Well, it starts off that way. That is until you find yourself crashing through waves in your rotating boat. Before you know it, you’ll be navigating treacherous rapids and splashing by gushing waterfalls. And as if that’s not enough adventure, you’ll be thrown into a dark, foggy grotto. Let’s just say it’s not for the faint hearted.
4. Ride through the sky on a horse
Saddle up — it’s time for a horse ride with a difference. Named after the winged horse of Ancient Greek fame, Pegasus lives up to its title. After all, it gallops around a rip-roaring roller coaster track 15 meters above the ground. And with the atmospheric surroundings of a Greek village around you, you’ll be transported to exotic climes. It might dip, twist, and turn its way through the sky, but it’s designed with kids in mind. So, adults – you have no excuses!
5. Feel the adrenaline rush on the Blue Fire Megacoaster
Who is the bravest person in the family? It’s time to find out, as you strap in for the ultimate adrenaline rush. There’ll be screams aplenty as you zoom from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds. Feel your hairs stand on end as you’re hurled around the highest catapult coaster loop in Europe. You’ll be flung around spectacular turns, and spun upside down — four times, to be precise. So, who chickened out?
Bonus Ride: If all these rides sound a bit, erm, scary – never fear. Europa Park offers plenty of excitement that doesn’t involve testing your nerves. While the others are busy throwing themselves around rollercoasters, why not take an expedition to Africa? That’s right — on a Jungle Rafting trip, you’ll discover the wildlife of the continent on a float. Not only rhinos, but hippos, monkeys, and other wild animals nestling between waterfalls and fountains. Sounds a little more relaxing, right?
