Europe’s only theme park dedicated to the iconic ‘Prancing Horse’ brand, Ferrari Land has opened at PortAventura World. It features 11 new attractions, including Red Force – the tallest and fastest roller coaster in Europe – the Ferrari Experience flying theatre and a pair of custom-themed tower rides.
Today’s (April 6) opening ceremony of PortAventura World’s third theme park was attended by 1,500 guests including Piero Ferrari, son of the founder of the world Ferrari brand.
Ferrari Land puts the Spanish resort well on the way to achieving its ambition of topping 5 million visitors in 2017. It also cements PortAventura World’s place as a world class tourist destination. It has three theme parks, five themed hotels, three golf courses and even direct access to the beach.
The Spirit of Ferrari Land
Piero Ferrari and Port Aventura World’s Arturo Mas-Sardá opened the new park alongside a host of VIPs, including Ferrari test driver Marc Gené.
Ferrari Land represents the Italian brand’s second theme park, after Ferrari World Abu Dhabi in the UAE. Visitors to the Spanish park are immersed in the spirit of Ferrari through both the rides and attractions and its Italian themed buildings.
Master planned by PGAV Destinations, Ferrari Land has a footprint of over 70,000 square metres (750,000 square feet). It has attractions for the whole family, with an emphasis on technology and thrill. In addition to the rides, guests also can visit restaurants, shops and shows, all of which reflect the spirit of iconic brand.
State-of-the-Art Attractions
The Ferrari Experience building at the heart of the park has a silhouette in the shape of a Ferrari racing car. It takes guests into the two worlds of the Italian Brand – GT and Formula 1 – through two state-of-the-art attractions.
Flying Dreams, a flying theatre by Brogent Technologies and Mousetrappe, sends Ferrari Land guests on a journey around the world.
Racing Legends allows visitors the opportunity to put their driving skills to the test. They can drive a Ferrari through the streets of Rome and along the most famous racing circuits in the world. They can even drive around imaginary futuristic scenes. The Omnimax simulator experience begins with a call for ‘drivers of the future’. who will experience the adventure on one of 10 mobile platforms.
Europe’s Tallest, Fastest Roller Coaster
Dominating the park’s skyline, Red Force is the highest and fastest roller coaster in Europe. The Intamin launch coaster boasts an acceleration of 0 to 180kmh (112 mph) in 5 seconds and thrill seekers can admire the view from a height of 112 metres (367 feet).
The park’s twin Thrill Towers, by S&S – Sansei, have been themed to resemble pistons. They also make an impressive addition to the skyline.
Additional attractions include the Maranello Grand Race race track and Pole Position Challenge. The latter comprises eight semi-professional simulators by Marty & Nelly, very similar to those used by Formula 1 drivers for training.
Ferrari Experience is also home to the Ferrari Gallery. Here, visitors can enjoy an interactive experience and learn about the history of the legendary Ferrari team.
Authentic Italian Restaurants
Aimed at younger children, Junior Championship by Zamperla gives kids the opportunity to experience the thrill of skidding along Formula 1’s traditional “whip” in a scaled down replicas of the real cars.
Pit Stop Record gives two teams to chance to compete to change four wheels on a full-size Formula 1 car as fast as they can.
In addition to the rides, Ferrari Land has five authentic Italian restaurants. Visitors can also shop for souvenirs and exclusive merchandise at the official Ferrari Land Store. They can also take a photo opportunity next to the entrance of Red Force.