Ypres –
Unique, world first to the third power, flabbergasted… park director Stefaan Lemey is short of superlatives at the long-awaited opening of the new water attraction in Ypres’ Bellewaerde Park. “We will win prizes with this.”
The Amazonia water attraction is located in the new Mundo Amazonia zone of the park, where the beetles used to ride. The new area opened at the start of the park season, but the main attraction was delayed by several weeks. Due to late deliveries of essential parts, the test phases took longer than expected. In the meantime, the test phases have been fully completed and the attraction has been approved by the TÜV inspection service. (Read more below the photo)
© Thijs Pattyn
Saturday was the day. Together with park mascot King Lion, park director Stefaan Lemey used pickaxes to make their way through the mysterious smoke and cobwebs at the entrance. The press, amusement park bloggers and influencers followed in their wake. (Read more below the photos)
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© Thijs Pattyn
“The entrance leads several hundred meters through the Amazon jungle to an old mine and factory, where emeralds were once mined and processed. That is the theme of our unique world premiere,” says Lemey. “A world first to the power of three, because we have three unique elements in this attraction: a vertical rotating elevator, a gigantic halfpipe and a bungee at the end of the Amazonia ride. This adventure will provide visitors and families with a unique experience and mix of emotions. We are very proud of it.” (Read more below the photo)
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“We invested 14 million euros, the largest investment in one attraction ever since the park was founded in 1954,” says Lemey. “We are convinced that we will win European and international prizes with our world first. That was also our intention.” (Read more below the photo)
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The completely new park zone cost the park approximately 21 million euros. “There is something for everyone,” the park said. “In addition to the unique water attraction Amazonia, you will also find two new attractions for the little ones. Little adventurers will experience their first sensations on the kiddie coaster Brazilian Buggies and on the mini splash Rio do Cacao. You will also find the new souvenir shop Samba Souvenirs, where you can find nice gifts for young and old. In the new Tropical Takeaway catering point you can taste the exotic atmosphere in delicious empanadas, tasty pizzas and delicious tacos. A completely new offering in the food range of Bellewaerde Park.”
Sometimes wet
The water attraction looks spectacular, but is tailor-made for families. When asked whether the visitor gets wet during the adventure in Amazonia, the answer remains vague. “Sometimes yes, sometimes no.”
Park director Stefaan Lemey. — © Thijs Pattyn
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