Europa park rust Germany... anyone been?

[Budsbegginingspringinsight]

It's won lots of award's but never hear about it... anyone been? Any tips or must do's ... the area, anything else to do.

Yes, as part of a trip to the Black Forest. It was good: a fun range of rides, also saw an ice show with younger DD. queues not too bad. One day was enough for us, it was summer and rides stayed open late, until 8.30ish. Accommodation in the surrounding area was nothing special and expensive, but IMO worth it for the day trip.

The characters and “Europe” theme were random and very stereotyping/kitsch!

We really liked Freiberg.

We live in Switzerland so usually make it once a year. We love it, a good variety to suit all the family. Also if you’re staying nearby there is a fabulous wildlife park not too far away.

DH and I went for a day a couple of years ago (we were on holiday nearby). We both really enjoyed it. DH isn't normally a big fan of theme parks (hated Disneyland Paris) but liked this one.

Oh brilliant, is there good theming like Disney, what's setting it apart from other places..

The “theme” is cheesy, “Europe” stereotypes and random characters!

It’s big, with some big rollercoasters and loads of rides. Presumably much cheaper than EuroDisney.

Both my daughters went on a school aged 13 and loved it, they both said it was better than Thorpe Park/Alton Towers.

Very nice park, tons to do. Go on a weekday if possible.

Things to do in the area - depends on how long you plan to stay? There are pretty German towns (Freiburg) and thermal baths (Badenweiler for example) around. France is just across the river - you could do a wine tour in Alsace, see local towns (Colmar, Eguisheim, Riquiewihr, Ribeauville etc). You're also an hour from Switzerland.

Oh no cheesy Europe doesn't sound attractive...

There aren't any cheesy characters walking around hugging people. Just the different areas are called after different regions - so Russia has MIR space station ride; Scandinavia has boats and water rides and so on.

Yes, the characters were low key and easily avoided if you don’t like that kind of thing. “themes” in the different areas are stereotypical and kitsch. But the main point IMO is the rides, which are good.