Finding the Magic in Arendelle – Disneyland Paris Raises the Bar
By David Powell
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about arriving at Disneyland Paris, but on my latest visit it was the resort’s newest addition that stole the spotlight. The long-awaited World of Frozen is an extraordinary recreation of Arendelle that feels as though it has been lifted straight from the screen and dropped into the heart of the park.
From the moment I walked beneath the towering North Mountain, complete with Elsa’s glittering ice palace perched high above the landscape I was immersed in the kingdom made famous by Anna, Elsa and Olaf. Every timber-framed building, cobbled street and Nordic-inspired detail brings Arendelle to life, creating the feeling of walking straight into the much-loved films.
The centrepiece is Frozen Ever After, a beautifully themed boat adventure that glides through the story of the films with remarkable Audio-Animatronics, dazzling projections and of course, an accompanying Frozen soundtrack. It is one of those attractions that appeals to every generation, mixing gentle thrills with genuine Disney appeal.
Other Frozen experiences include the Royal Encounter, where families can meet Anna and Elsa inside a stunning castle setting that feels every bit as magical as the films themselves.
The land itself deserves just as much praise as the rides. There are charming shops filled with exclusive merchandise, themed restaurants serving Scandinavian-inspired dishes and plenty of places simply to stop and admire the scenery. Every viewpoint seems to have been designed for photographs, from the harbour looking towards North Mountain to the colourful houses lining the waterfront.
In the evening there’s a spectacular new show over Adventure Bay combining music, fountains, lights, projections and special effects across the water. It created a magical end to the day, with the lake and Frozen’s Arendelle providing a stunning backdrop.
There is also the new Adventure Way which leads to World of Frozen, featuring the new Rapunzel Tangled Spin ride, themed gardens and the Regal View Restaurant and Lounge.
Our stay at Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel provided the perfect contrast to the fairy-tale atmosphere of the parks. Sleek and contemporary, the hotel combines New York sophistication with one of the largest collections of Marvel artwork anywhere in the world.
Everywhere you turn there are references to Iron Man, Spider-Man and the Avengers, yet the décor remains stylish rather than overpowering. The spacious rooms, excellent restaurants and impressive indoor and outdoor swimming pools made it an ideal place to unwind after days in the parks.
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