Parc Asterix, France's second-largest theme park behind Disneyland Paris, offers nine rollercoasters, four massive water rides, and a gigantic spinning disc, all located just 30 miles north of Paris. Despite its size and attractions, it has remained one of France's best-kept secrets, according to a visitor who found it cleaner, quieter, and offering more for both adults and children than most UK parks.
A Hidden Gem Near Paris
The park, based on the country's most beloved comic books, features 50 attractions and shows, 36 food outlets, and three hotels (soon to be four). It is divided into six themed zones, including the Gaul village, the Roman Empire, Ancient Greece, and Egypt, each offering a mix of rides for all ages.
Getting there involves a 45-minute flight from the UK followed by a 15-minute taxi ride, making it a viable alternative to driving to Alton Towers. The park's nine coasters include Toutatis, the fastest ride in France, reaching speeds of 110 km/h (68 mph) and a height of 51 meters, with a world record for airtime moments.
Rides for All Thrill Levels
Other notable coasters include OzIris, described as one of the most spectacular in Europe, and Tonnerre 2 Zeus, a wooden coaster with a recent makeover adding extra bends and airtime. Cétautomatix, Europe's first family spinning coaster, is suitable for riders as short as 1 meter tall and has been named Europe's best new family attraction.
Goudurix, a Viking-themed coaster, climbs 12 storeys before plummeting into seven inversions, while Trace du Hourra offers a unique bobsled-style experience without a traditional fixed track. Pégase Express, a family launch coaster, is the only one of its kind in Europe, and smaller coasters like Vol d'Icare and SOS Tournevis cater to younger riders.
Water Rides and Shows
The park's water attractions include the Descent of the Nile, a giant snaking water slide, and Romus et Rapidus, a raft ride with fountains and jets. Menhir Express is a traditional log flume, and La Revanche des Pirates features a 600-meter boat ride ending with an 11-foot waterfall drop.
Queues for bigger rides are not as bad as elsewhere, with fast-track passes available. The park also offers shows like Divers of Olympus, a high-diving display with athletes jumping from 25-meter platforms, plus a musical, pirate show, stunt show, and a daily parade. This summer, a new drones, lasers, and fireworks show runs after dark.
Food options range from burgers and fries to restaurants serving salads, pasta, steaks, and the new Epidemias all-you-can-eat buffet. The park is described as beautiful, clean, and welcoming, with two days recommended to see everything. A two-night, three-day B&B stay for a family of four starts at £700, and Eurostar fares from London to Paris start from £39 each way.
