While Disneyland is, without a doubt, the most famous theme park in all of France, it is not, by a long shot, the only one. In fact, it is not even necessarily the most interesting theme park you might visit. If you have found a vacation rental in Pays-de-la-Loire and you've had your fill of princesses and iconic characters and rides and are still looking for an interesting theme park to explore, one of the most fascinating that you could ever hope to stumble upon is Puy du Fou.
Puy du Fou is an incredible historical theme park in Les Epesses in the region of Pays-de-la-Loire that attracts 2 million visitors each year. Opened in 1978. originally as an open-air amateur dramatics night wherein volunteers re-enacted the bloody history of the Vendée in the ruins of a castle and is now known for its incredible historic recreation extravaganzas that make use of thousands of actors and animals, astounding sets, mind-blowing special effects and sumptuous costumes. There are no rides and, yet, children that visit are enthralled by the experience and adults, too, are blown away by the scale and magic of being transported back in time.
Puy du Fou is an incredible historical theme park in Les Epesses in the region of Pays-de-la-Loire that attracts 2 million visitors each year. Opened in 1978. originally as an open-air amateur dramatics night wherein volunteers re-enacted the bloody history of the Vendée in the ruins of a castle and is now known for its incredible historic recreation extravaganzas that make use of thousands of actors and animals, astounding sets, mind-blowing special effects and sumptuous costumes. There are no rides and, yet, children that visit are enthralled by the experience and adults, too, are blown away by the scale and magic of being transported back in time.
See Vikings torch thatched villages and longships full of Viking sailors emerge from beneath the water of a lake, performing pigs doing tricks, Roman gladiators competing and chariot races in the 6,000-seat Gallo-Roman-style colosseum, the tale of King Arthur play out in front of your eyes, and high-speed stunt-riding in the Joan of Arc show. Then explore the 50 hectares of forests and gardens, the historic villages, the medieval settlement, the 18th-century farm, the blacksmith at work, the medieval baker making bread, and much more besides.
With a 98% satisfaction rating and having been awarded the title of Best Theme Park in the World at what is essentially the Oscars for theme parks in 2012, this is a truly extraordinary place that everyone can enjoy and a true must-see for those looking to experience something utterly unique in France.
With a 98% satisfaction rating and having been awarded the title of Best Theme Park in the World at what is essentially the Oscars for theme parks in 2012, this is a truly extraordinary place that everyone can enjoy and a true must-see for those looking to experience something utterly unique in France.
Photo credit: Padpo / CC BY-SA 3.0