French Holiday Ideas | Futuroscope: A mind-blowing experience for all the family

Of all the theme parks in France, few capture the imagination of adults and children alike quite like Futuroscope. This sprawling, futuristic homage to science and discovery 10km north of Poitiers in the Vienne department is quite unlike anywhere else.

Set on over 60 hectares, it boasts enough attractions and shows to satisfy either a one- or two-day visit (there is excellent on-site accommodation) and treat visitors of all ages to a mind-blowing experience. It’s little wonder that over 40 million people have enjoyed what it has to offer since it opened in 1987.




What makes Futuroscope different from other leisure destinations is its forward-thinking approach to technology, used in dazzling multi-media shows in over 25 immersive experiences. As you would expect, the place never stands still, and new shows emerge every year using the very latest technology, often with an educational as well as entertainment focus.

A good example of its educational approach is an important new show for 2011, called The 8th Continent. This deep-sea extravaganza warns of the dangers of man-made plastic waste intoxicating the oceans and is sure to get the younger generations thinking hard about the role that everyone needs to play in protecting the environment.


Also new this year is Sea Monsters, a new 3D experience from National Geographic that takes you back to the Cretaceous period where you come face to face with gigantic creatures that lived in the seas in the age of the dinosaurs.

Futuroscope works with leading figures in the film industry, so Arthur, the 4D Adventure is a must-see for 2011. It’s made by veteran cinema legend Luc Besson and plunges young visitors into the thrilling world of Minimoys. Expect to be wowed as the full array of image technologies do their stuff – watch out for 3D modelling, large-format IMAX 3D images, motion simulator and physical effects in the theatre.

Arthur 4D, has been hailed by the Industry as one of the Top TEN attractions anywhere in the world in 2010 at the IAPPA EXPO in Florida”

Also not to be missed is an enchanting 3D take on children’s classic The Little Prince, which provokes physical sensations in the audience such as vibrations and blowing air as the story unfolds,the Little Prince will be shown from July 2011. Then there’s the Futuroscope Digital City, which allows the viewer to stroll through landscapes and vegetation thanks to fun, techno innovations.

View of the park and 3D experience at the Futuroscope ©Futuroscope.com
















Hurricane on the Bayou is another fine example of technology being used for education purposes, as it leads visitors through a musical celebration of New Orleans that teaches young generations about the importance of preserving wetlands and ecosystems.

Cosmic Collisions reveals how the universe is shaped – expect cosmic simulations with the help of NASA photography and a Robert Redford narration, while young space-lovers will also enjoy Fly me to the Moon, an incredible 3D adventure depicting three flies who are the passengers on the legendary Apollo 11 flight to the Moon.

Brush with Genius reveals through stunning IMAX technology how artist Van Gogh created his most famous works, and The Future is Wild has been recently updated, allowing young visitors to climb aboard expedition vehicles to meet and interact with animals that roamed Earth millions of years ago. This is a perfect blend of history and futurism, an example of the latest technology revealing the past.

To take a break from the sight and sound spectaculars, kids can relax in some of the park’s play areas and then, come the end of the day, gather for the final spectacle: The Blue Note Mystery evening show. This musical fairytale combines lasers and special effects to crown off a wondrous day of exploration and thrills.

Futuroscope is handily placed near the Atlantic coast, between the Loire Valley, Vendée, Cognac area and the Dordogne region. It is just 90 minutes from London by plane and 80 minutes from Paris by TGV.

So if you want to treat the kids to a truly unique and most memorable experience, book now!

For further information go to www.uk.futuroscope.com