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Summer Supplement July 2014
Themed Outings
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Barcelona Salou Teruel Valencia Benidorm Alicante Elche La Marina Guardamar Rojales Torrevieja Murcia Almeria Fuengirola Malaga Torremolinos Benalmรกdena Granada
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This is the first of several supplements to the monthly Torrevieja Outlook and is about themed parks suitable for all the family.
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Although the much vaunted Paramount Theme Park planned for Murcia has still to get off the ground, there are plenty of other things to do apart from the beach. Visitors to the FITUR show at the beginning of the year were able to travel on a 3D virtual journey around the projected park, as well as look at the images, models and videos of the projected installations. But until work begins it remains a project.! Here we have a look at some alternatives especially on the Mediterranean coastline, but a bit further afield as well, apart from the islands and North Africa which are a bit far from home. We have not quoted prices as they will vary, but normally there are discounts for children, pensioners, disabled, or groups. Sometimes it's possible to have discounts for entrance tickets to several allied parks like the Benidorm ones. The main thrust of these parks is water and the animal kingdom, often with organized guided educational visits available with a prebooking, so it's worth looking up the park and facilities that interests you. Check out parking and eateries as most do not permit food to be taken inside as there are normally a choice of cafĂŠs and restaurants. Every park has guidelines of comportment to follow that are there for people's security. "Wherever you find children, you'll find sexual predators that want to be there," Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said.!
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! Barcelona Aquarium! !
There is no doubt that Barcelona has become one of the top tourist cities in Spain as it has so many interesting buildings, Monuments, fiestas, cultural and leisure events and many museums, including a sex one, Tibidado fairground and another at Montjuich that both TorreviejaOutlook Themed Outings
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deserve to be visited. ! But we are talking about family geared themed areas and Barcelona has a magnificent aquarium. In fact there are 14 aquariums inside the main building and they represent the different Mediterranean areas with all their most characteristic species. This is an opportunity to see recreations of the Ebro Delta and the Medas Islands and marvel as you walk through a methacrylate tunnel 80 metres long under the Oceanarium, where you'll have the sensation of swimming among the sharks as you pass along, you cant really stop and stare as the crowd usually pushes you along. Sometimes night observaciones are organised for schools..!
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The Oceanarium is the largest aquarium in L'Aquàrium in Barcelona, and houses species as diverse as giltheads, moray eels, moonfish, manta rays and two types of shark: the bull shark and the sandbar shark, who are the real stars of the L'Aquàrium in Barcelona. Visitors will also find tropical aquariums (with spectacular coral reefs), as well as themed and interactive aquariums. The Tibidado fairground overlooks the city with a background second floor is home to of the Sacred Heart double basilica popular for weddings. Planeta Aqua, and features a Another large funfair is on an opposite hill of Montjuich, number of creatures that have in the Middle Ages the hill for burial of the Jews. adapted to a wide range of Montjuich has many other sporting attractions as well as conditions in the marine the Joan Miro art museum and gallery. world: glacial cold, the darkness of the abyss, the warmth of tropical waters…! It is also possible to prebook a dive among the sharks! TorreviejaOutlook Themed Outings
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Younger visitors can enjoy the ¡Explora! children's area, with over 50 interactive exhibits to touch, see, hear, investigate and discover nature in three different settings on the Mediterranean coast: the marshes in the Ebro Delta, a corner of the Costa Brava and an underwater cave in the Medas Islands. Its a great learning experience for everyone leaving the visitor amazed at nature.! Moll d’Espanya del Port Vell, s/n ! 08039 Barcelona (Catalonia)! http://www.aquariumbcn.com/! Tel.:+34 932217474! Fax.:+34 932219226!
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Barcelona has dozens of museums, a couple in the large area of Montjuich with the sporting facilities leftover from the 1992 Olympics. There is an impressive fortress with commanding views over the vast harbour area and beaches and a monorail to get you there if you have a head for heights.! Among the monuments are the fountains of Montjuich that most nights turn into a spectacular display of colours as the water geysers change shape along with the music, while inthe background searchlights outline the Palacio de Victoria.! Probably the most popular building to visit is that of Gaudi - the basilica of the Sagrada Familia, but there are always huge queues and guide bus tours often prebook places. Then in a similar architectural outburst there is the Guell Gardens ,built as a community area for a village but with extravagant designs and tiles.!
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The Costa Brava also has water parks at Rosas (Aqua Brava Rosas): the Aquadiver Platja d'Aro (Castell-Platja d'Aro): and Water World (Lloret de Mar).!
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Aquapolis Cullera is a bit further away and similar to other water parks with a variety of attractions, slides, the river rapids, kamikaze slides, wave machine and a hydro massage.! Aquapolis Cullera! Carretera Nazaret-Oliva, Km 33,000! 46400 Cullera! Tel: +34 90 234 5011! E-mail: aquapolis.cullera@grpr.com! TorreviejaOutlook Themed Outings
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The six areas of this theme park near seaside resort Salou will let you discover new and wonderful worlds with magnificent shows and breathtaking magical rides for all ages. From the tallest and fastest roller coasters in Europe to the smaller rides that parents and children can enjoy together in the magical family area of SĂŠsamo Aventura. PortAventura is the only holiday destination that features a theme park; a water park; four themed 4-star hotels with a total of over 2,000 rooms; and a 4,000capacity convention centre. The 4star hotels have over 500 rooms each: Gold River, El Paso, Caribe and PortAventura. It also offers a campervan park for motorhomes.! Train, plane and road are options of how to get to the park as nearby is Reus ariport, the train stops in Salou and there are several transfer options available from both terminals.! PortAventura, Spain's first theme park, received more than 3,800,000 visitors and 1 million overnight guests in 2012. Located just one hour from Barcelona, it is one of the main attractions on the Costa Dorada. It has several zones: ! PortAventura MediterrĂĄnia perfectly combines the tranquility of a typical Meditteranean fishing village with exciting rides, restaurants and high quality shops.! Step inside the Polynesian jungle and take refuge among the palm trees, shrubs and plants. The Tutuki Splash and the Sea Odyssey will surprise you.! Not quite Made in China but this section introduces you to Chinese history, places, customs not forgetting gastronomy.! Ole, ole a colourful area is set in colonial Mexico with ancient ruins, a Mayan pyramid and spectacular attractions, restaurants and shops+ info!
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Bang, bang you're dead, but will live to tell the tale of the Far West where you can live exciting adventures in a true cowboy American style.! Sésamo Aventura was added in 2011 designed specifically for children in the style of the famous television muppets series Sesame Street. !
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In 2016, Ferrari will have its own theme park in Port Aventura Port Aventura has reached a licensing agreement with Ferrari to build in Salou (Catalunya) a new theme park dedicated to the automobile. A project that is expected to be operational in 2016 with an investment of more than 100 million euros. !
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Teruel!
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Teruel is a town among the mountains where there are extreme weather conditions that affected soldiers in the Spanish civil war as the town became an important strategic place for both sides. Teruel also has a love story similar to Romeo and Juliet and the effigies of the two youngsters lie in the main church. Close to the centre of the city of Teruel you'll find Dinópolis, a theme park where children and adults alike can have fun discovering all the secrets of the exciting world of dinosaurs.!
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Dinópolis was conceived as a park with an educational slant, and its various attractions offer a panoramic view of the giants who once walked the earth and continue to fascinate kids: the dinosaurs. The heart of the park is without a doubt the Teruel Paleontological Museum, whose modern facilities are home to one of the world's best collections of dinosaurs. There are several fun attractions based around the museum. After a first contact with the world of dinosaurs in “Territorio Dinópolis”, you can take a fascinating journey back in time until the period of the dinosaurs, and discover in the 3D cinema what life was like for these animals, or even see the dreaded T-Rex in action. Not to mention the numerous play areas with activities for the younger visitors, and zones with restaurants and snack bars where you can recharge your batteries.!
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As well as the main park located in the capital city of Teruel, there are another four centres at different points around the province: Legendpark in Galve, Inhóspitak in Peñarroya de Tastavins, Región Ambarina in Rubielos de Mora and Bosque Pétreo, in Castellote. There is an ongoing program me of Paleontological investigations.!
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Polígono de los Planos s/n! 44002 Teruel (Aragon)! info@dinopolis.com! www.dinopolis.com!
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Tel.:+34 902448000! Fax.:+34 978617718!
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Years ago Valencia city was flooded by the River Turia on more than one occasion, so the River was diverted and since then the riverbed has been used for many cultural and sporting events and building exceptional attractions. ! Bioparc is the zoo for animals that the city of Valencia has; situated in the park called Parque de Cabecera, to the north of the garden of the old course of the River Turia. Bioparc Valencia is a 10hectare (25-acre) zoo in Valencia, Spain owned by the City Council of Valencia and designed and managed by Rainforest (a private Spanish company devoted to building and managing zoos) since 2008. It has a large collection of African fauna. Bioparc Valencia is one of the new generation zoos conceived with the zoo-immersion philosophy. A recreation of the savannah, antelopes, giraffes and rhinoceroses, lions on rocky vantage points, dens of hyenas and warthogs, the density of the equatorial forest with gorillas, buffalos and leopards or also elephants, hippopotami, crocodiles and coloured fish, these are some of the many attractions of this natural tourist space. This is achieved by not using the traditional railings and cages that are common in many zoos, using instead rivers, ponds, streams and rocks to separate visitors from the animals. Bioparc is strongly committed to sustainability and conservation; it recycles more than 95 percent of the water that it uses as well as generating energy to heat water using a large number of solar panels throughout the zoo. Many of the species at the zoo are included in European conservation breeding programs, and primary objectives of Bioparc include educating and increasing awareness of visitors regarding care of and respect for the environment.! Falconry Zone - One of the zones which is most popular with both adults and children is the falconry zone. The Flight of the Bird of prey displays enable visitors to discover the beauty and TorreviejaOutlook Themed Outings
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Fotos:- @jennyormi
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skill of a great variety of birds such as the majestic flight of the Peregrine Falcon which reaches speeds of over 300 km an hour, the Eagle Owl, various types of the Harris Hawk, the Griffon Vulture and the Buzzard Eagle. One of the main aims of the park is to encourage contact and engage in interaction between animals and humans, and the falconry is a popular means of achieving this goal.!
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Valencia doesn't just have your average aquarium - it boasts Europe's largest aquarium. It is called the Oceanografic and it contains 45,000 living creatures, with over 500 different species of sea-life animals. ! The Oceanogràfic is an important section of the City of Arts and Sciences and is the largest aquarium in Europe, containing representatives of the world’s main marine ecosystems. Each building is identified with different aquatic environments: the Mediterranean, Wetlands, Temperate and Tropical Seas, Oceans, the Antarctic, the Arctic, Islands, TorreviejaOutlook Themed Outings
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and the Red Sea, as well as the Dolphinarium with 24 million litres of water and a depth of 10.5 metres. It is feasible to dive into the Europe's largest saltwater aquarium surrounded by bull sharks and species as curious as sunfish or sawfish as part as "Shark Encounter": Information and reservations, 902 100 031. There are many other such activities during the year.! The Underwater restaurant designed by Félix Candela is located in the centre of the park and is its most emblematic building, surrounded by 8 acrylic sheets that house 10,000 pelagic fish and offers a high quality menu. MEDITERRÁNEO pizza-ice-cream parlour is next to the Mediterráneo installation and is an excellent place to sample fresh pizzas together with other specialities. In the Oceanográfico, there are five shops where you will be able to pick the souvenir of the park and its animals that you like the most. In the access b u i l d i n g , y o u w i l l fi n d t h e Oceanográfico Shop, the Marine Corner and Aqua Coffee Shop. It is a great place to head for all age groups. There is a dolphin show that happens on a daily basis and is one of the most popular attractions at the park. There are also sharks, sea-lions and whales to check out whilst you're there.! !
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(+34) 902 100 031! Call center's schedule! From Monday to Friday: ! 09.00 - 18.00 ! Saturdays, Sundays and holidays: ! 10.00 - 14.00!
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Benidorm has it all!
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Benidorm has Aqualandia – Purported to be the largest waterpark in Europe it is popular throughout the hot months with everyone, regardless of age. The coloured water slides are visible on the Benidorm skyline and Aqualandia has the worlds highest capsule slide – VertiGo, measuring 33 metres. But there are many other types of exciting slides. Open from 10am, you can purchase all days tickets or half day – valid after 3pm, parking is free.! !
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Benidorm also features Aqua Natura – a Water park located next to the theme park, Terra Natura. Smaller than Aqualandia but there is certainly no shortage of slides, plumes and activities to keep kids amused plus the added bonus of a free Sea Lion show twice daily. There is a man-made beach with sand and this park is probably better suited than the other water park for younger children.! AQUALANDIA ESPAÑA, ! 34) 965 860 100! Email: aqualandia@aqualandia.net! Parque Natural Sierra Helada! 03503 - Benidorm, Alicante (Spain)!
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Terra Natura is a Wildlife park close to Benidorm divided into three zones – America, Asia and Europe where it is possible to see animals of these continents living within their natural environment. The park has over 1500 animals of 200 different species – 50 of which are classified as endangered and there is a very successful breeding programme. There are many interactive activities going on throughout the day, such as feeding the animals and for the more adventurous can fly across the elephant plain on the 400 metre ´Zipwire´. ! Foia del Verdader, 1 03502 Benidorm Alicante SPAIN ! TlF: 902 52 23 33! Fax: 902 52 24 44 ! info@terranatura.com! TorreviejaOutlook Themed Outings
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Mundomar is also near Benidorm and is a Marine animal park located next door to Aqualandia, which also has many exotic animals. This is always a favourite park with children that offers plenty of shows throughout the day, including parrots, sea lion and dolphin spectaculars. It's also possible to book a unique ´swimming with the sea lions´ or ´encounter with dolphins´ experience – if you prebook.! Address: C/ Sierra Helada, s/n, 03503 Benidorm, Alicante, Alicante, Spain! Phone: +34 965 86 91 01!
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Terra Mitica needs a full day to visit, but it's possible to buy multiple tickets at a discount or buy combined tickets for various theme parks. This one is divided into five zones – Egypt, Rome, Greece, Iberia and the Islands featuring stunning architecture putting the visitor in situ with corresponding restaurants offering typical food of each country. There are plenty of rides in each zone, including a 360-degree rollercoaster for the adventurous thrill seekers. It has been carefully landscaped providing shady areas and there is a swimming section with Jacuzzi and plenty of water rides throughout the park – so don´t forget to take swimming costumes. There are various shows throughout the day with special themed night concerts and events. !
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Terra Mitica Theme Park! Carretera de Benidorm a Finestrat (no number)! Partida de Moralet! 03502! Tel: +34 90 202 0220! Fax: +34 96 500 4749! E-mail: callcenter@terramiticapark.com! Web: Official Terra Mitica Website!
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Rio Safara is just outside Elche and has been going since 1983 - located four kilometres from Santa Pola and nine from Elche. There is a guided tour by train around the park. There are also various shows to enjoy including the sea lions, with the possibility of bathing in their company and the guacamayos. Rio Safari Park are specialists in rearing and caring for wild and exotic animals. Sea lions, antelopes, ostriches, bisons, boa constrictors, zebras, chameleons, cockatoos, chimpanzees, crows, llamas, jaguars, dromedaries, hippos and giraffes may be found here amongst almost a hundred species and nearly 800 animals.! Some highlights of the Rio Safari Park are the reptile cave, where the habitats of reptiles and amphibians are recreated, the aviary, the crocodile farm and the chimpanzee island with more than 1,000 square metres of open space, with vines, rocks and hammocks as well as the farm school, with painting, bread baking and recycling workshops. Young children may get to know the little goats and lemurs and have a ride on a pony or dromedary.! In the restaurant it is possible to taste a typical rice dish baked over wood chips. For those who prefer to bring their own food, there is a picnic area and there is also a cafeteria. In addition there are trampolines, a kart circuit and, in the summer, a swimming pool with slide. ! Rio Safari Elche, through its charitable foundation, has developed a therapeutic programmes involving sea lions, designed for people with disabilities.!
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Opening Hours! Winter: 10:30 to 18:00.! Summer: 10:30 to 20:00.! Prices include: a guided tour by train, a visit to the reptile cave, the aviary, the crocodile farm, the farm school, the animal shows and, in the summer, the swimming pool.! Telephone: 96663828 http://www.visitelche.com/en/leisure-and-fun/rio-safari/!
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Rojales also has a water park in C. Quesada. Located in a natural valley inside of the urbanization of Ciudad Quesada Rojales (Alicante), AquaPark was inaugurated the 14 July of 1986, being the second water park in the Valencia Comunity and Spain. Inside the 21.000 square meters, are several slides and attractions, as well as rest areas, all equipped with tables and benches in the shade freely available to the public, also has a large lawn with parasols, where you can rest peacefully, a bit away from all the bustle of the park.! Aqua Park Valencia, Ciudad Quesada - 03170! Tel: +34 96 671 8612! Fax: +34 96 671 5641! Web: Official Aqua Park Website! ! Hidden jewel - La Marina Camping!
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Not quite a theme park, but a place often overlooked is the international camp site in La Marina which comes under Elche and close to the beach. You don't need to be a camper to visit as it has lots of attractions such as a jacuzzi, large swimming pool, live entertainment in the summer. It also has a gem of a restaurant that offers amongst its large menu excellent rice dishes, including the best paella I have ever tasted. The central area is dotted with statues of life sized animals including elephants. The Lake Themed pool of Camping La Marina has 3000m2 on two different levels, with waterfalls , jacuzzi, water bar, 6 slides , tropical vegetation and atmosphere. The vegetation surrounding the pool is the most creative part. It adds a tropical character through different levels of multiple species of palm trees. There are up to a total of over 40 native and non-native varieties such as Moorei Macrozamia of Australia, Ravenea Rivularis of Madagascar, Royal palm or Dwarfpalms of Cuba or the “sabales” from the U.S. All plants can be identified with their ceramic tiles on which the names and origin are indicated. This way, a walk around the pool becomes a small botanical class. Bungalows are available to rent.! It's just off the N332 going into the La Marina village which has now been bypassed by the dual carriage. Tel: 96 541 9200! : http://www.campinglamarina.com/en/campsite/swimming-pool/!
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Marjal Camping with style!
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Just outside of Guardamar, but off the main N332 road, this camping site has lots of amenities open to the general pubic with a dedicated entertainment groups that organizes games, concerts, aerobics, various classes for crafts etc. In some ways an offshoot of Butlins Holiday Camps and this year they are making a film with customers are the stars with some zany characters and costumes. Everything centres around the huge swimming pool area and although aimed at people pitching up their tent or renting one of the bungalows on site, somethings are open to day visitors. It has been awarded the TripAdviser 2014 award because of the facilities that include doctor, hairdressers, pet care with a pipican, wifi, and so on. The health and spa centre features different suites according to the type of exercise you are going to practice. It includes a state-of-the-art fitness and weights studio, as well as modern studios for cardiovascular activities, circuit training, and amazing classes led by top fitness professionals, and much more. In addition, Marjal Sport offers aquatic classes such as aquagym and aquafitness as they have a heated indoor pool and jacuzzi. The tropical lake pool covers 5,000 square meters and has 3 Jacuzzis and a waterfall. It is surrounded by a beach area and a landscaped area with palm trees, flowers and native plants. There you will find comfortable deckchairs on which to sunbathe. At Marjal Restaurant, which seats 170 diners, you will be able to taste daily dishes and a varied and exquisite menu for everyone: daily set menu, Vega Baja menu, menu of the season, tasting menu and children’s menu. In addition, a wide range of international and Mediterranean food is available to guests, including our star dish: the paella.!
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Ctra. N-332, km. 73,4! 03140 - Guardamar del Segura! Telf. 96 672 70 70 – 96 672 50 22! Fax: 96 672 66 95 – camping@marjal.com! GPS: 38º 06" 36” N – 0º 39" 18” W!
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Torrevieja has a water park that opens for the summer with several slides - Torrevieja Aquopolis. If you want to release adrenaline, the attractions classified as High Emotion of Aquopolis Torrevieja are the best for it. But only the most daring will slide down on the spectacular Kamikaze or Speed slides. Don´t miss the opportunity to plunge into the darkness of the Black Hole aboard a float. See more at: http://www.torrevieja.aquopolis.es/!
If you want to swim outdoors, but not spend much money, then there is a large pool outside the Torrevieja Princesa Cristina Pavilion, as well as plenty of opportunities nearby to play a variety of sports.!
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Terra Natura MURCIA! Terra Natura is located to the north-west of the town of Espinardo in Murcia on the east coast of Spain. Access is via the A-7 motorway and the Murcia highway. The park lies right next to the Murcia University Campus in Espinardo. The address is C/Regidor Cayetano Gago S/N (30100) Espinardo, Murcia province.! With its zoological collection, fantastic shows and wonderful landscaping and architecture, Terra Natura Murcia is one of the absolute ‘musts’ for anyone visiting Costa Blanca and the Costa Calida, as well as residents of the nearby regions. At Terra Natura Murcia you can discover the “Zooimmersion” experience – enabling you to come into contact with the animals as if there were no barriers between you – at least, no visible ones!!
The 165,445 m² of the Murcia park are divided into two themed areas: the African Savannah and the Iberian Peninsula. At Terra Natura Murcia you can see more than 300 animals from 50 different species, three of which are in serious danger of extinction, plus over 500 examples of more than 50 species of trees, shrubs and ground cover TorreviejaOutlook Themed Outings
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plants from these regions.! As well as the hugely varied collection of wildlife, there is educational information (through placards with biological details and information points), the architectural theming and the range of shows, entertainment and adventure activities make Terra Natura Murcia the number one choice for families looking to spend an interesting and entertaining day in a natural setting! ! Sea lion Show: There is a delightful show of Terra Natura in which you can experience the pleasant and affectionate nature of these species whilst they carry out a great variety of tricks and games demonstrating their great sense of humour. This show, on request, offers the chance to “Swim with Sea Lions". Here the visitor can interact by joining an entertaining and refreshing swim with a sea lion accompanied by a specialized instructor. ! Exotic Birds & Reptiles: During the winter season, Terra Natura Murcia holds an exquisite exhibition of some of the most famous exotic birds and a selection of popular reptiles, such as the Albino Python or Boa constrictor.! ! “NIGHT SAFARI” AT TERRA NATURA MURCIA - The “Night Safari” at Terra Natura is an attractive opportunity to do something a little bit different, and see the different areas hidden in the zoo by moonlight. The guides explain the curiosities of different nocturnal animal behaviours in species that are native to the Iberian Peninsula and Africa.! FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS! Start times: Info. 902 50 55 60! Duration: 12min. approx.! Route: Walking. Torches are recommended!! Price: 10€/person (Adults and Children)!
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Unlike D. Juan Carlos, recently abdicated king, you don't need to go to Africa to enjoy exotic wildlife and you can still shoot them with a camera. In the magnificent surroundings of Kenya you mustn’t miss a visit to:! Tsavo Station Kenya: the Lunatic Express- Travel back in time without fear to visit the King of the Jungle in all his glory: which became famous in Kenya's colonial history for the Man Eaters of Tsavo in a book snd film.! Samburu settlement: - An African settlement where zebras, gazelles, wildebeest and other animals coexist and wander freely among the rich and varied fauna and flora of the African continent.! Serengeti Park: You'll be captivated by the tallest mammal of all, the giraffe, and the massive bulk of the biggest of the artiodactyls, the hippopotamus.! Mara River: A long river meanders through the savannah, where visitors can observe the rich diversity of wildlife, where animals roam freely without barriers or obstacles, not to mention all the different types of trees and shrubs typical of the African continent.! Masai Mara lookout point: One of the most spectacular features of this lookout point is the combination of fauna and flora; animals roaming in complete freedom among lush vegetation. The setting will simply enthral you!! You can buy tickets at the Park’s ticket offices or on the website. Prices vary according to age as follows: children (aged 4 - 12), adults (aged 13 - 59) and senior citizens (over 60). Infants up to the age of 3 are free of charge when accompanying a paying adult.! Central Reservations Office on 902 50 55 60.! www.terranatura.com/Eng/TerranaturaMurcia!
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! Cowboy Territory! !
! Further away towards the south, in Almeria, in the Tabernas desert, there are three theme parks in the desert that are dedicated to the Wild, Wild West. These were locations for making spaghetti Western films featuring actors such as Clint Eastwood throughout the 1960’s and 1970’s and are now tourist attractions often with high noon shootouts and saloon brawls or bar girls doing a cancan dance. ! ! In 1965 El Paso town was rebuilt and today is known as Mini-Hollywood Oasy. The current season started on 14th April 2014 and throughout the summer the park is open every day. From November on the park will be opened just on Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays from 10:00 to 18:00. It was here that “For a Few Dollars More” set designed by Carlo Simi was filmed and later used for “The Good, The Bad and The Ugly” and other movies. (The designer also played a bit part as the town’s bank manager). There are other attractions such as a zoo, a movie museum inside the bank, typical food.! ! Another park is Western Leone, again created by Carlo Simi “Once Upon a Time in the West” representing the Sweetwater Ranch but named after the famous film director. The cabins were built using logs left over from the filming of “Falstaff” by Orson Welles. It's still in use for making films or video clips. ! A third set was Fort Bravo, which is still in use for filmmaking but does receive visitors. In Vera there is a large aquatic park with many types of slides and adventure slides.! !
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PARQUE AQUATICO VERA Almeria! The inland town of Vera also has a fairly large water park with kamikaze, body ski, twisting slides, river adventure, black hole, large pool and lake and special children's pool and slides.!
Fuengirola! B i o p a r c Fuengirola champions the current new model style of zoo based on respect for nature and the preservation of natural species, a model which has already established itself as a flagship for Europe. What Bioparc Fuengirola represents is a different concept of zoo. A zoological park where animals live side-by-side, recreating their natural habitat and so fostering their development at all levels. he habitats of Africa, Asia and Madagascar are recreated by the themed design of embankments, waterfalls, rocks, trunks and even realistic trees. The creation of the baobab tree, one of the largest artificial trees in the world, standing 25 metres high, set the park's designers a real challenge. It has now become a landmark of the centre.! This comprehensive recreation of habitats goes hand-in-hand with messages about the need to preserve them.!
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Calle de Camilo José Cela, 6-8, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga, Spain! Phone:+34 952 66 63 01!
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ATTRACTIONS! A visit to Tivoli World is an experience to enjoy a fantastic day in a unique place that has been around for decades. A world of excitement to share with your family. Enjoy exciting new attractions, the variety of shows in different places and enjoy the many options to satisfy your
appetite between bars and themed restaurants, while enjoying the magnificent ambience of the park. Among the attractions you can enjoy - the roller coaster, Twister, Jurassic Adventure mysterious ship, or the free-fall tower of 60 meters high, Tivoli Water, Grasshopper,, Tivoli Dragon, Passage of Terror, Giant Ferris Wheel and Child wells, carousels, rides, ... and more. more.! TIVOLI THEATRE provides live Performances for all audiences with illusion and color! The outdoor Tivoli Theatre holds up to 2200 people; the concerts take place with some of the top artists of the moment, as well as great performances designed for younger children.! children. PLAZA WEST Another Authentic reproduction of a western town where you can taste the best barbecue in Texas Grill and also enjoy a comprehensive entertainment programme of the Far West and Can-Can.! PLAZA DE ANDALUCIA A place where the atmosphere and ingredients typical of Andalusian architecture teach us the best characteristics of this land of Al-Andaluz.! Parque de Atracciones Tivoli World! Arroyo de la Miel! Mรกlaga. 29630! Tel: +34 952 57 70 16! Fax: +34 952 44 50 45! CROC PARK! TorreviejaOutlook Themed Outings
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Park specialized in crocodiles, showing more than 300 crocodiles of different species. Open 365 days a year. The park has eight lakes, an African village, museum, audiovisual room, nursery for baby crocodiles, fortress of the African Sahara style, spacious cafeteria, souvenir shop, playground for children and a large parking. There are four crocodile exhibitions per day, presenting Big Daddy to you (the biggest crocodile in Europe). All visitors can hold a young crocodile in their hands to be photographed with their own cameras for free. The park is adapted for handicapped visitors, but I don't think that has anything to do with visitors handling crocodiles.! Cocodrilos Park! C/ Cuba, 14! Torremolinos! Málaga! 29620! Tel: +34 952 05 17 82! Fax: +34 952 37 84 93!
BUTTERFLIES OF BENALMADENA! This is a colourful wonderland only twenty minutes drive from Malaga where the visitor can view over 1,500 types of magnificent butterflies (mariposas), The entrance is a spectacular Thailand temple that leads into a tropical paradise of exotic and common butterflies among cascades of flowers. You can see how these wonderful flying insects reproduce, are born, and often dependent on the b re e d i n g s e a s o n w a t c h t h e i r development.!
Mariposario de Benalmádena! C/ Muérdago, s/n! Benalmádena! Málaga! 29639! Tel: +34 951 21 11 96!
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! Also in Benalmadena area is Selwo Marina is a new concept in marine life parks, offering the incomparable adventure of discovering the most representative marine mammals and birds of South America. On this particular expedition through the New World one can enjoy the first Dolphinarium in Andalusia, with intelligent bottle-nosed dolphins. Selwo Marina also has the only Ice Penguinarium in the Community of Andalusia, a facility that reproduces the natural habitat in which different species of penguins live.! Selwo Marina! Parque de la Paloma, s/n! Arroyo de la Miel! Benalmádena! Málaga! 29630! Tel: +34 952 57 77 73!
! ! Sea Life Benalmádena! !
Immerse yourself and discover a few centimeters of the fascinating creatures that inhabit our oceans, from the curious stars, the legendary sea sharks. Observe, experience and touch. You can see and touch starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, hermit crabs - explain each of these animals so you can get to know them better. Promote respect for marine life through direct contact and a better understanding of their habitats is the main objective of the Interactive Zone.! Sea Life Benalmádena! Puerto Marina s/n! Benalmádena! Málaga! 29630! Tel: +34 952 56 01 50! Fax: +34 952 44 67 84!
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Mijas also has an aquatic park with a variety of thrilling slides - Kamikaze, Rio Bravo, River Adventure, Labyrinthe, Ski Soft, etc Jacuzzi.! Parque Acuático Mijas! Autovía A7, Km. 209! Mijas Costa! Málaga! 29650! Tel: +34 952 46 04 04! Fax: +34 952 46 94 42!
S E L W O ADVENTURE is a unique animal, nature and adventure park, located in Estepona. More than 2.000 animals from across the whole Planet live in this huge terrain, in conditions similar to those of their natural habitat, animals such as elephants, Bengal tigers, giraffes, white rhinoceros, lions... and Kanvar, the only Asian elephant to be born in Spain. The visitor gets to see the animals up close as part of a tour which takes place partly on foot and partly in all terrain lorries.! Selwo Adventure has a variety of adventure activities such as the longest zipwire in Europe, camel rides or the Path of the Hanging Bridges. Whoever wishes to prolong their stay may do so by staying at the Selwo Lodge Hotel. And for the youngsters, Nature’s Classrooms and Summer Camps.!
Selwo Aventura! Autovía Costa Del Sol, Km 162,5! Las Lomas Del Monte! Estepona! Málaga! 29680! Tel: +34 902 19 04 82! Fax: +34 952 79 65 32!
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The largest water park on the Costa del Sol is at Torremolinos! 5 minutes from downtown Torremolinos you can find Aqualand Torremolinos which is a place to spend a day of fun and entertainment with the best water rides imaginable for the whole family.! Aqualand is a world of water and fun, perfect for unforgettable moments with family and friends.! The park has a new attraction: the "Boomerang", plus wide area restoration, parks and a 18-hole mini golf that adds a bit of change. Enjoy 14 attractions including 19 water slides for adults, 15 children's slides and a Mini golf 18 holes:! Black Hole - Over 100 meters in which the drops, elevation changes and curves will not let you breathe. Dare to try the unknown!! Mini Park - The best option for children: children's water park and amusement park in the same pool.! RAPIDS - The nearest thing to a rafting experience for two people: fast, backwaters and eddies that make you believe you're in a river.! Boomerang - A dizzying round trip on a super-slippery surface onboard a float, to be shared with anyone. ! Crazy Race - Four soft tracks which will reach breakneck speeds. The first to come down wins.! Super Slalom - Three slides in a zig-zag, each live in different sensations. What do you choose?! Kamikaze - The highest in Europe (22m). A dizzying descent that will leave you breathless.! Twister - Speed and turns in one of our most popular attractions.! Surf Beach - Waves over a meter high in a pool of 1440 square meters.! Tropical Lagoon - swim in calm and placid waters, relax and think about your next adventure.! Jacuzzi - Take a rest in the sparkling bubbling pool, you will feel renewed. ! Aqualand Torremolinos! C/ Cuba, 10! Torremolinos! Mรกlaga! 29620! Tel: +34 952 38 88 88! Fax: +34 952 37 01 99!
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! MALAGA WOLF PARK!
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Nature, adventure, expeditions, and four big wolf pens is what you're going to find in Lobo Park, a unique theme park sitting 8 kilometres away form downtown Antequera, in the heart of Andalusia. European wolves, timber wolves, Iberian wolves, Arctic or white wolves, and others live together in Lobo Park's 40 hectacre nature reserve. The park closely resembles their natural habitats, and it also houses other animal species as well as a rich array of exotic plants and trees. Your visit to Lobo Park can be twice as fun if you ride one of the purebred horses living in the reserve. There are guided tours and horse riding lessons available, too. In addition, there's a school farm in Lobo Park, where children can learn how to take care of friendlier animals: small Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs, Iberian pigs, ducks, geese, peacocks, goats, hens, foxes, sheep and many more! ! Lobo Park: Howling in the heart of Andalusia ! Carretera Antequera-Álora (A. 343) Km 16! Antequera! Málaga! 29200! Tel: +34 952 03 11 07!
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! AMAZING AMAZON ADVENTURE! Aventura Amazonia Marbella is a natural environment with different circuits for kids, jungle, adventure and sports, sorted by levels of difficulty,permits the participant to decide where to start the fun and set their own limits. Forget the physical condition; just listen to your adventure spirit! Unlike other theme parks, the activity is carried out independently, so that you and only you are the star of your own adventure. You get past the games by yourself; there is no interference of any mechanical element.! A popular aspect is all the contribution of psychological and physical benefits and the development of personal behavior, companionship and respect for nature. The games are made with materials that do not harm the environment and are designed to provide a fully integrated aesthetics in the forest. It´s time to enjoy Aventura Amazonia Marbella with the best team of professionals with a personal challenge that will never forget our more adventurous senses.!
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Aventura Amazonia! Elviria! Marbella. Málaga 29604! Tel: +34 952 836 004!
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! PARQUE DE SCIENCIAS GRANADA!
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Granada's excellent science museum is only two kilometres south of the centre of the city on Avenida del Mediterráneo, opposite the Convention Centre. It has been awarded several prime awards including the 1914 TripAdviser one with a 4..5 out of 5 qualification and is probably one of the cheapest places in this article to visit. Its a really stimulating museum for children in Andalucia, and many hordes of children traipse through the rooms as part of their studies. ! Covering a massive 70 km2 site, divided into two main buildings that have solar panels, for both practical and educational purposes, halls with temporary exhibitions and an outside area of botanical an astronomy garden dynamic sculptures and an observation tower. There is also a Tropical Butterfly Garden with 20 species. A visit takes you on a journey exploring our body, our mind and our world - with useful English explanations.!
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The Macroscopio, has areas covering themes such as the human body; the legacy of Al-Andalus' philosophers, engineers and s c i e n t i s t s ; t e c h n o l o g y, innovations and art; and Andalucia´s protected natural areas. There are several interactive exhibits permitting play with light and sound, or get inside a giant kaleidoscope, handle electric circuits and experience the force of air.! The planetarium/Foucault´s Pendulum building takes us into mechanics, physics, chemistry and geology, with plenty more interactive areas, and a children´s hall designed for tiny tots of three to seven-year-olds offering games, toys and gadgets to discover and explore basic scientific principles in a hands-on style.!
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Parque de las Ciencias - Teléfono 958 37 78 10! Avda. de la Ciencia s/n! 18006 Granada!
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ISLA MAGICA SEVILLA!
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Tom Cruise´s daughter Suri when he hired it for her for the day The Isla Mágica amusement park is located in the original '92 Expo site, on the Isla Cartuja - walking distance from the city.! The overall theme is swashbuckling 16thcentury Spanish colonial adventures, with seven areas centered around a lake. There are several large attractions including the Anaconda and El Jaguar roller coasters, the latter with high speed 360-degree turns. Another popular ride is the Iguazú, set in an Amazon jungle waterfall. The ride which you can see from outside (and hear its passengers' screams) is El Desafio, which has a 68-metre free fall, offering great views of the city. You can visit Puerto de Indias, the Puerta de America, the Amazon, El Dorada or the new Water Park opened this summer, which has become the Beach of Seville.! There are also various live shows staged throughout the day, and a cinema with tilting seats and a giant screen where you can re-live an explorer's adventures. Other attractions include the 'Navia Barbarroja', a pirate ship and a small one hat takes visitors on a water trip.. Younger children are well catered for with their own area offering slides, a merry-go-round and a Ferris wheel. They will also love the go-carts, bumper cars and the family big dipper, while a more relaxed option is the boat trip around the whole park, or a trip to a replica 16th-century galleon. There are the usual Shops, snack bars and cafes and special hotel offers. It was used by Tom Cruise as a present for his daughter Suri when he hired the complex for a day - not recommended for poorer mortals, but here are discount passes available.! http://www.islamagica.es! tel- 902 16 22 22 !
! ! ! LA RESERVA SEVILLE! !
This 'multi theme park', located 50 km north-west of Seville on the A476 near Castillo de la Guardas, combines a Wild-West section, safari park, go-karting and boating. You can also stay here, either in the Wild West hotel, or in cabañas located around the park.! The main attraction is the animals - more than 1000, in 100 species, including tigers, zebra, elephants, rhino and bears. The animals are allowed to roam free around the park, which is located in a former mine, offering a dramatic lunar landscape. To see them, you can either drive along the 15km trail around the park in your own vehicle or take the train. You can stop at a lake with canoeing and pedal boats. Other TorreviejaOutlook Themed Outings
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attractions include swimming pools, performing sealions, birds of prey and a petting area where children can feed the animals. Older children will love the paintballing and karting track.! The Wild West section, which has free entry, has the usual saloon bar featuring cowboys and shows with can-can girls. Shop, lake-side restaurant and cafeteria among the trees.! la Reserva de Animales del Castillo de las Guardas.! Carretera A-476 Kilómetro 6.820 , El Castillo de las Guardas, Sevilla, Andalucía, España!
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COORDENADAS GPS 37º 41´46.22´´N - 6º 22´03.55´´.0! info@lareservadelcastillodelasguardas.com! Tel. 955.95.25.68 or 955.95.25.73!
! Benalmádena JARDIN DE LAS AGUILAS (GARDEN OF THE EAGLES) !
! The Jardin de las Aguilas (‘garden of the eagles’) or the Valley of Eagles, is a wonderful Birds of Prey Centre clearly signposted from Benalmádena. Majestic birds of prey spread their wings under the supervision of expert handlers, and there are displays throughout the dayof all 152 birds not only eagles but owls, falcons, vultures. Among the stars is Yaku, a rare condor.! In this fabulous zoological garden overlooking the Mediterranean at 250m above sea level, there are daily demonstrations of magnificent birds of prey in flight. The centre is dedicated to raising and protecting many different species of raptor. You can see eagles, falcons and vultures flying freely. The experience of seeing these majestic birds in flight is enhanced by the medieval atmosphere of the nearby Castillo de Colomares (Colomares Castle), which is a must to visit the same day and an unforgettable experience for the whole family.! To get there, take the road towards the coast from Benalmádena pueblo. Next door there is a miniature castle to visit Castillo de Colomares with beautiful grounds, breathtaking views and Snake City, an impressive reptile sanctuary that will be sure to make your skin crawl.! Teléfono: 952568239 / 952575038 Fax:952568239 Web:www.telefericobenalmadena.com/! address: Castillo de Colomares, s/n - Monte Calamorro Código postal:29639. Benalmádena !
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! The Warner Bros Park in Madrid!
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This theme Park is in the south of Madrid has all the magic and razzledazzle of Hollywood.! The park is located in the town of San Martín de la Vega, and is divided into five themed areas. Access is along Hollywood Boulevard, the Mecca of film, and the home of stars and shops. Besides revealing the secrets behind the best special effects in film, the Movie World Studios area also offers incredible live shows, such as Lethal Weapon or Police Academy, with shoot-outs, chases and explosions. Action is guaranteed in the Superheroes World area, thanks to its impressive "The Vengeance of the Enigma" tower, and the huge loop-theloops of “Superman/The Attraction of Steel". Young children can see their favourite cartoon characters at Cartoon Village: Donald Duck, Tweety Pie, Bugs Bunny..., while the Old West Territory area takes you back to the Wild West, with huge, wooden roller coasters and wild, dangerous waterfalls.!
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Carretera A-4 Km. 22! 28330 San Martín de la Vega, Madrid (Madrid)! reservas@parquewarner.com! www.parquewarner.com!
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Tel.:+34 918 211 300! Tel.:+34 902 024 100! Fax.:+34 918211301!
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