We all dream of fairytale lands as children, where elves and fairy princesses live among talking trees. In Holland there really is such a place! Rosie Khdir explores Efteling.

Efteling, located in the town of Kaatsheuvel, is one of the oldest theme parks in the world. It began as a sports park back in 1935 and evolved into a nature park with the opening of its Fairytale Forest in 1952. Since then Efteling has grown into a full-size theme park with rollercoasters and various other amusements.

Efteling is divided into different realms and here is a run-down of what you will find in each one.

The Fairy Realm

This is the realm which holds the famous Fairytale Forest, the oldest part of the theme park, where you can meet characters from 24 different fairy stories, including Rapunzel, Hansel and Gretel, Sleeping beauty and the Frog Prince.

The Adventure Realm

This is the part of the park where all the daredevils go, where rides such as The Mysterious Ship and the Python, a double-looped rollercoaster, reside.

The Travel Realm

This realm explores different cultures with attractions such as the Pagode and Carnaval Festival celebrating and representing different countries.

The Alternative Realm

The Alternative Realm hold a variety of attractions, including the white-water Piraña ride, the SalzburgerLand Village, the Creepy Castle and The exciting 3D adventure at PandaDroom.

If you want to take a visit to Holland and see this magical land for yourself then P&O Ferries can help you on your way. You can get the Hull to Rotterdam overnight ferry service starting from £149 each way.

Image credit: Radio Nederland Wereldomroep

Tags: History, Lifestyle, Netherlands, P&O Ferries // Add Comment »