Europe's premier outdoor waterpark, located a mere two hours from the UK, has secured a spot among the world's best, featuring one of the planet's steepest waterslides. This destination provides a stark contrast to typical indoor centres, thanks to its breathtaking natural scenery and an extensive array of heart-racing experiences.
Global Rankings Highlight European Gem
In recent rankings compiled by AttractionTickets.com, the world's top waterparks were unveiled, with Universal Orlando Volcano Bay in the USA claiming first place and Brazil's Thermas dos Laranjais taking second. Notably, the third position went to a European park that offers a unique, nature-infused adventure set against majestic mountain backdrops.
AREA 47: Austria's Adrenaline Hub
AREA 47, situated in the Tyrol region of Austria—an area renowned more for skiing than aquatic pursuits—transforms into the country's largest outdoor leisure park during the summer months. Operating from mid-May to October, it boasts over 40 exhilarating ways to make a splash, all centred around a natural lake.
Unlike conventional indoor complexes with limited slides and lazy rivers, AREA 47 emphasises adrenaline-pumping activities in the fresh alpine air. Key attractions include a massive inflatable obstacle course on the lake, a diving tower, and a cliff diving area for daring amateurs. The park's standout feature is one of Europe's steepest waterslides, with a daunting 70° incline.
Thrilling Activities and Relaxation
Visitors can engage in unique experiences such as Blobbing, where participants jump from a height onto a giant cushion before bouncing into the water, or the Cannonball, which launches people into the air like a human projectile before they land in the lake. Afterward, guests can unwind at the beach bar or lounge on sunbeds by the water, perfect for calming elevated heart rates.
Beyond water-based fun, AREA 47 also offers climbing, mountain biking, and wakeboarding areas, making it a comprehensive adventure destination.
UK Waterparks in the Rankings
While American and European parks dominated the top ten, UK offerings did not break into this elite group. Sandcastle Waterpark in Blackpool, the UK's largest indoor waterpark, ranked 14th globally. This year-round attraction, maintained at a tropical 24°C, features 18 slides, including the UK's longest indoor roller coaster waterslide, the 200-metre Masterblaster.
Alton Towers Waterpark followed at number 15, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor aquatic fun available throughout the year. Accessible with tickets from £18 for visitors over 90cm tall, it includes high-speed slides like Rampage and Rush—the latter allowing customised music and lighting—along with family-friendly areas such as Wacky Waterworks and Calypso Creek lazy river.
Full List of Top 15 Waterparks
- Universal Orlando Volcano Bay (Orlando, Florida)
- Thermas dos Laranjais (Brazil)
- AREA 47 - Tirol (Austria)
- Beach Park (Brazil)
- Aqualand (Corfu, Greece)
- Siam Park (Tenerife)
- O'Gliss Park (France)
- Aquatica (Orlando, Florida)
- Aqualandia (Spain)
- Slide & Splash (Portugal)
- Caribe Bay (Italy)
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon (Orlando, Florida)
- Rulantica (Germany)
- Aquafan (Italy)
- Sandcastle Waterpark (United Kingdom)
- Alton Towers Waterpark (United Kingdom)
This ranking underscores the appeal of diverse waterpark experiences, from tropical indoor settings to rugged outdoor adventures, with AREA 47 standing out as a must-visit for thrill-seekers near the UK.
