When PortAventura World announced its spectacular 30th anniversary celebrations, Kelly Williams knew it presented the perfect opportunity for an autumn family escape to Spain's Costa Dorada.
Western Welcome at Hotel Gold River
The Williams family, including three children aged 15, 11, and three, made their base at Hotel Gold River, one of the theme park's on-site accommodation options. Stepping into the Wild West-themed hotel felt like entering a movie set, complete with saloon doors and clapboard façades that transported them to another era.
Their room overlooked a meticulously crafted Western "main street," providing easy morning access to the park entrance. The convenience of staying on-site proved invaluable, eliminating parking struggles and traffic delays while ensuring they were well-fueled by plentiful breakfast buffets before each day's adventures.
Global Adventures Across Themed Lands
PortAventura's diverse themed lands offered the family a whirlwind tour of different cultures and experiences. They began in Mediterrània, where Spanish melodies floated across waterfront areas and the aroma of paella filled the air. The journey continued into Mexico, where Day of the Dead celebrations preceded brave ascents up the towering Hurakan Condor drop tower.
In China, the family conquered the legendary Dragon Khan roller coaster, which twists dramatically through the air near their park favourite, Shambhala. Their Express Passes proved essential for minimising queue times and maximising enjoyment, particularly helpful for keeping younger family members engaged and meltdown-free.
Thrills and Family-Friendly Fun
For those preferring gentler attractions, PortAventura offered abundant alternatives. The Far West section delighted children with traditional shooting galleries and funfair games, while water-based attractions like log flumes and rapids provided refreshing entertainment for those unconcerned about getting soaked.
The park's entertainment programme impressed with parades, shows, and character meet-and-greets featuring childhood favourites like Woody Woodpecker and Sesame Street's Bert and Ernie. The youngest family member particularly enjoyed the 3D dark ride Street Mission, where they excelled at shooting virtual cookies, even outperforming their parent.
The newest attraction, Uncharted: The Enigma of Penitence, based on the action film, became an instant hit with the older children. This fully enclosed, multi-directional coaster surprised riders with unexpected twists, drops, and reversals in complete darkness, earning a place among the family's top five favourite rides.
Ferrari Land and Lasting Memories
No PortAventura World visit felt complete without exploring Ferrari Land, home to Red Force - Europe's tallest and fastest roller coaster. This incredible ride accelerates from 0 to 180 km/h in just five seconds, leaving the children speechless with awe. Interactive exhibits, racing simulators, and child-friendly driving zones provided additional entertainment, with even the three-year-old braving Junior Red Force.
Each evening, the family returned to Hotel Gold River, exhausted but exhilarated, watching the distant park lights fade into the night. The 30th anniversary celebrations, marked throughout the resort with special banners and themed menus, created a festive atmosphere that enhanced their experience.
Reflecting on their adventure, Kelly Williams noted that PortAventura's milestone anniversary became a celebration for their family too - creating precious memories through shared laughter, adventure, and quality time together. Their only regret? Not being able to extend their magical holiday for longer.
