Futuroscope

		About 45 minutes drive from Tours or 1 1/2hrs from Angers is Futuroscope, a stunning theme park for all ages. Its futuristic architecture dominates the landscape beside the N10 and A10 at Poitiers . A gigantic sphere set on a slanting plane made of glass, a translucent cube jutting up from the ground, mirror-like organ pipes, and crystals reflecting the sky - the Futuroscope is a futuristic world that resembles a scene from a sci-fi movie

Just 7 km (4 1/2 miles) to the north of Poitiers, its architecture gives an added dimension to the use of glass, light and steel. This world of the future, where high-tech and imaging have pride of place, is a 'must' for any visitor to the Loire and Bordeaux regions. The auditoriums feature the most up-to-date projection systems, some unique to the Futuroscope. Allow two days to try out all the attractions.

What to see at the Futuroscope
Destination Cosmos: 'Now boarding for the virtual flight on the century!' Get ready for a stunning trip to the frontier of the Universe where mankind has never been. Explore planets in the solar system and push back the limits to discover new galaxies! You now land from this unforgettable flight and follow in the footsteps of scientists who made the move into space a reality, without forgetting visionaries such as Stanley Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke, with "2001 Space Odyssey".

Le Dfi D'atlantis: A unique show using every type of technology; 3D, hemispheric screen and simulator take you to the depths of the ocean in your search for the treasures of Atlantis. Images studio: A glass and metal hall containing 1,600m2 of film sets provides an insight into special effects. La Cyber avenue: 800m2 dedicated to every form of cyberculture, multimedia and the internet.

		Le Miroir d'Uranie: As night falls, the still waters of the lake suddenly come to life with light. Strange creatures emerge from the depths to take part in a tremendous choreography of light, images, water and music. A bewitching spectacle that takes place on an aquatic stage of 7,000ms and on water screens 15metres high. Superstition: Its architecture resembles a roll of film unwinding itself whilst your one-way ticket to the simulator experience takes you on a nerve jangling journey through a world of superstition, evil spirits, wild chases, tongues of fire and an infernal labyrinth.

T-REX: In this metal sphere 23metres (75ft) in diameter, a hemispherical image is projected in 3D onto a 900 m2 screen. Infrared activated liquid crystal glasses bring the age of dinosaurs to vivid life as you find yourself face-to-face with a 'real' T-Rex. Couleur Bresil: Its shape reflects its contents. Everything here is rounded - the cinema-in-the-round surrounds the audience with the warmth and colour of Brazil. Sur les traces du Panda: This futuristic crystal stands 35metres (114ft) high and consists of 300 reflective windows. Imax technology uses the largest film format in existence to project an image seven stories high. The sheer size of it all will take you right to the heart of the action as you accompany Ruth Harkness on her perilous journey from Shanghai along the Yangtse River in 1936. Fight with her against poachers and the lost wild forests so she can realise her dream to get close to the majestic Giant Panda. A true story of intrigue and strong emotions.

Plongeurs sans limite: This translucent cube features a 900m2 hemispherical screen. The image, projected from a "Fish Eye" lens, completely envelopes you. Your vision of space and depth is global and immediate as you enter the world of the free divers or "Fish Men". Share the lives of two exceptional divers, Cuban Pipin Ferreras and Italian Umberto Pelizzari who dive to great depths. Relive there first experiences and be there to beat the most breathtaking records - 120 - 127….130 metres……..

Le monde des enfants: 'Kid's World' consists of 2 hectares of play areas and exhibits designed to instil a sense of discovery. La Vienne dynamique: The largest wall of pictures ever built and a simulator that gives visitors a very eventful guided tour of the delightful Vienne departement of France. Le ciné jeu: A huge video game in which the entire audience takes part. Le Pavillon du Futuroscope: A sphere with a diameter of 17metres (55ft) emerges from a glass construction covering an area of 1,200m2. This is the park's logo.

		Les ailes du courages: Giant 3D images projected on a 600m2 screen trace the history of Aérospaciale, French airmail service. Le Tapis Magique: Images of butterflies pass before your eyes - and under your feet. La Gyrotour: A circular cradle that slowly rises to provide the most breathtaking of panoramic views. Astratour: A dynamic film that takes the audience on an interstellar voyage faster than the speed of light.

HOW TO GET HERE By road: A 10 motorway, exit no. 28 (Futuroscope) with direct access to the park, or RN10 road. No charge for parking. By rail: The new TGV-Parc du Futuroscope station brings the park to within 80 minutes of Paris. High-speed TGV Atlantique service from Paris, Lille or Bordeaux to Poitiers, then taxi services take you to the park. OPENING TIMES Opening times vary according to the season: High Season: daily from 9 a.m. to the end of the evening spectacular. Low Season: daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ADMISSION CHARGES 2002-2003 The ticket covers entry to the park and unlimited access to all shows. ADMISSION CHARGES VARY DEPENDING ON THE SEASON Individual tickets:
One day: Children: €16 to €22		Adults: €21 to €30
Two days: Children: €29 to €40		Adults: €40 to €57
Two-day passes are valid for two consecutive days. There is a special rate for children aged between 5 and 12 (inclusive). No admission charge for under five's. Party rate available for groups purchasing more than 20 tickets. In order to take advantage of the party and school party rates, please book one month in advance. Tickets, special packages and additional services are all dated.