Updated as recently as April 18, 2022, Ferrari Land stands as a vibrant testament to the enduring legacy of the iconic Italian automaker. Opened in 2017 as part of the expansive PortAventura resort near Barcelona, Spain, this 15-acre (60,000 square meters) park delivers an immersive experience, seamlessly blending thrilling attractions with a deep appreciation for Ferrari’s rich history and Italian heritage. It’s a destination that appeals to both adrenaline junkies and car enthusiasts alike, offering a unique blend of speed, innovation, and captivating theming.
Following in the tire tracks of Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Ferrari Land distinguishes itself as a traditional outdoor park, a fitting design choice considering Spain’s favorable seaside climate. This strategic location integrates it flawlessly within the existing PortAventura World, joining the original PortAventura theme park and the refreshing PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park. It is important to note that access to Ferrari Land requires a separate admission ticket, although convenient combination passes are available for visitors eager to explore two or all three parks within the resort.
The following rides are the best rides at Ferrari Land in Spain:
Red Force
Dominating the skyline and acting as the undeniable centerpiece of Ferrari Land, Red Force is more than just a roller coaster; it’s a record-breaking marvel of engineering. As Europe’s fastest and tallest roller coaster, this ride delivers an unparalleled adrenaline rush. Reaching a staggering speed of 112 miles per hour (180 km/h) and soaring to a height of approximately 365 feet (112 meters), Red Force is a true spectacle to behold.
The secret to its blistering speed lies in its state-of-the-art electro-magnetic launch system. Utilizing linear synchronous motors, the train is catapulted from a standstill to its top speed in a mere five heart-stopping seconds. This rapid acceleration propels riders up a dramatic, top hat-shaped tower inclined at a breathtaking 90-degree angle. The ascent is followed by an immediate, vertical plunge down the other side, creating a moment of pure weightlessness and exhilaration. While the entire experience is fleeting, lasting only a matter of seconds, the sheer intensity and adrenaline surge leave a lasting impression.
Interestingly, while Red Force holds the title of Europe’s fastest, it ranks as the world’s fourth-fastest coaster overall. The undisputed champion in terms of speed remains Formula Rossa, located at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. However, Red Force proudly stands as the third tallest coaster globally, an impressive feat that further solidifies its place among the elite of thrill rides. Its imposing structure dramatically alters the PortAventura skyline, serving as a constant reminder of the high-octane adventures that await within Ferrari Land.
Flying Dreams
For those seeking a more immersive and visually stunning experience, Flying Dreams offers a captivating journey through the world of Ferrari. Inspired by the groundbreaking "flying theater" concept pioneered by Disney’s Soarin’ (now known as Soarin’ Around the World), this attraction simulates the sensation of soaring high above breathtaking landscapes.
Riders are seated in specialized vehicles that move in perfect synchronization with the action projected onto a massive, hemispheric dome screen. The storyline immerses guests in a narrative where they "pick up" a brand-new Ferrari GT directly from the carmaker’s factory in Italy. From there, the adventure unfolds as they follow the iconic sports car on a whirlwind tour across the globe, with a particular focus on the scenic wonders of Europe. The journey culminates with a triumphant return to PortAventura, completing the circle and reinforcing the park’s central theme. The combination of realistic motion, stunning visuals, and a captivating storyline creates a truly memorable and immersive experience for all ages.
Racing Legends
Step into the driver’s seat of a Ferrari F1 race car and experience the thrill of high-speed competition with Racing Legends. This motion simulator ride uses cutting-edge technology to transport guests to the heart of the action, placing them on the legendary Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya race track.
The ride’s immersive nature allows passengers to travel through time, experiencing pivotal moments in Ferrari’s racing history, including a unique encounter with Enzo Ferrari himself during the early 20th century. The attraction is housed within a domed theater, similar to the one used for The Simpsons ride at Universal Studios parks, further enhancing the sense of realism and immersion. The combination of realistic motion, stunning visuals, and a captivating storyline makes Racing Legends a must-experience attraction for motorsport enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
Thrill Towers
While not the tallest or fastest drop tower rides in the world, the Thrill Towers at Ferrari Land still offer a significant adrenaline rush. Standing at approximately 180 feet (55 meters) tall, these twin towers are designed to resemble engine pistons, a subtle nod to Ferrari’s automotive heritage.
The two towers, the Free-Fall Tower and the Bounce-Back Tower, offer slightly different experiences. The Free-Fall Tower slowly ascends to the top before plunging riders into a thrilling freefall. In contrast, the Bounce-Back Tower shoots riders upwards, followed by a freefall and a series of bounces, adding an extra element of surprise and excitement. While PortAventura already boasts the towering Hurakan Condor, one of the world’s tallest drop tower rides at 328 feet (100 meters), the Thrill Towers provide a more compact and accessible dose of adrenaline for those seeking a thrilling, yet less intimidating, experience.
Maranello Grand Race
For a more hands-on racing experience, the Maranello Grand Race puts visitors behind the wheel of actual cars, allowing them to compete against each other in a thrilling head-to-head race. While these are essentially go-karts rather than full-fledged race cars, they are meticulously designed to resemble iconic Ferrari F1 vehicles, adding to the authenticity of the experience.
Children as short as 40 inches (102 cm) can ride alongside an adult, making this a great option for families. Unaccompanied children must be at least 51 inches (130 cm) tall. For younger children, the park offers a similar ride called Junior Championship, designed specifically for their size and skill level. The Maranello Grand Race provides a fun and engaging way for visitors of all ages to experience the thrill of racing in a safe and controlled environment.
Pole Position Challenge
For a taste of professional racing simulation, the Pole Position Challenge offers a unique opportunity to experience the training methods used by real Ferrari F1 drivers. The simulators used in this attraction are said to be similar to those employed by the Ferrari team, providing a highly realistic and immersive experience.
The attraction features six simulators for adults and two for children, ensuring that guests of varying ages and skill levels can participate. However, it’s important to note that children must be at least 55 inches (140 cm) tall to ride this attraction. Due to its popularity, reservations for the Pole Position Challenge tend to fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to book your spot early in the day. This attraction, along with the Pit Stop Record, requires an additional fee.
Pit Stop Record
Do you dream of being part of a high-performance Formula 1 pit crew? The Pit Stop Record attraction offers the opportunity to test your skills and teamwork in a fast-paced, competitive environment. Two teams compete against each other to change the tires on an F1 car in record time.
This is a race against the clock and against your opponents, demanding precision, speed, and coordinated teamwork. Children who want to participate independently must be at least 55 inches (140 cm) tall, but those as short as 43 inches (110 cm) can join the fun when accompanied by an adult. The Pit Stop Record provides a unique and engaging experience that allows visitors to appreciate the crucial role of the pit crew in motorsport success.
Rides for Children
Recognizing the importance of catering to younger guests, Ferrari Land expanded its offerings in 2018 with the addition of a dedicated area featuring rides designed specifically for children. This area includes Junior Red Force, a scaled-down version of the park’s signature coaster that allows children as short as 37 inches (95 cm) to experience the thrill of a roller coaster ride.
Champion’s Race provides a fun and engaging driving experience for little ones, with height restrictions in place to ensure their safety. Children must be at least 47 inches (120 cm) tall to ride this attraction independently. The children’s area also features spinning rides and a toned-down Kid’s Tower attraction, providing a variety of options for younger visitors to enjoy.
Ferrari Land offers a captivating blend of speed, innovation, and immersive theming, making it a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and car enthusiasts alike. The rides at Ferrari Land in Spain, each unique in its own way, promise an unforgettable experience that celebrates the legacy of the iconic Italian automaker.
