Top 10 most popular adrenaline-filled activities in Europe
Holidays can mean more than just sunbathing on the beach. Many people choose an active vacation and even seek adrenaline rushes. There are a lot of interesting options in Europe that are addressed to people who like adventure and are not afraid of risk. These destinations for sure are not for everyone but if you’re looking for something a little bit more extreme, take a look at these recommendations:
1. Bungee jumping at Contra Dam
The best extreme attractions in Europe can be found in various parts of the continent. They can also be very different, as the concept of extreme for people who like adrenaline is quite broad. The most common activity of this type seems to be various types of jumps from great heights. Bungee jumping in Europe can be performed in almost every country. Contra Dam (Verzasca), Ticino, Switzerland ensures its fame among amateurs of bungee jumping as it was featured in one of the James Bond movies, Golden Eye. It was here that the famous scene with agent 007 was filmed, and the enthusiasts of extreme experiences followed in his footsteps.
2. The extreme swing Over The Edge in Amsterdam
The extreme swing Over The Edge in Amsterdam is currently the highest suspended swing in Europe. It is located on the roof of the A’dam Tower, which is 100 meters high. The swing offers an unforgettable view of the city skyline. This pleasure is relatively inexpensive because, for 20 minutes spent on the swing, we will only pay 5 EUR. After using it, you can spend a bit more time on the roof, as it also offers the visitors a restaurant and a bar.
3. Skydiving in Europe
Skydiving is a quite popular activity in Europe. Some people practice it regularly, others decide to do it once in their life and check it off their bucket list. There are many companies all around Europe offering this type of extreme sport. Switzerland is a very good place for extreme entertainment. The Lauterbrunnen Valley is characterized by unique landscapes – with waterfalls and deep gorges, ideal for parachuting. Skydive Lauterbrunnen can take those willing by helicopter over the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau glaciers, and drop them from a height of over 4,250 m.
4. OFF-ROAD expedition to the Uranium Mine – Jelenia Góra
The extreme OFF-ROAD trip through wetlands and forest areas will surely remain in your memory for a long time. The destination of the expedition is a uranium mine that participants will be able to explore. The trip includes a 7-12 hour trip in two off-road vehicles, which will take you to the uranium mine where you will take a guided sightseeing trip. The OFF-ROAD expedition will certainly be extreme and provide participants with a lot of excitement.
5. Interlaken: tandem paragliding flight
Experience the thrill of paragliding in Interlaken. A fully licensed pilot will turn your dreams into reality. Admire the breathtaking views and enjoy the unique feeling of floating in the air. The flight lasts around 20 minutes and is definitely not recommended for people who are afraid of heights. The views from above, however, will compensate for all inconveniences.
6. Rollercoasters at Disneyland Resort, Paris
The dizzying speed and super long roller coaster tracks will provide an amazing experience at the Disneyland Resort in Paris. Even though most people would consider it a children’s attraction, a bit of adrenaline can surely be found there. We can easily get on one of the biggest and fastest attractions here: the Space Mountain Rollercoaster. This is a great option for the whole family.
7. A roller coaster from 1914 in Tivoli Gardens, Denmark
Bjerg Banen or Rutsjebanen is one of the oldest wooden railways in the world. It was launched in 1914 and is still operated in the old way – a man controls the entire railway while standing on it. He controls braking so that the descent is not too speedy. This cable car attraction provides a perfect amount of adrenaline in an original vintage style. In addition, the Tivoli gardens are not only an amusement park but also a pleasure garden with breathtaking sights to discover.
8. Caminito Del Rey Trail, Spain
This might be one of the most exciting positions on the list. Considering the lack of any protection on the trail, as well as the condition of the stone pavements stuck along the vertical limestone rocks, this walkway in the Malaga province sure makes an impression. Despite the danger, many climbers decide to go on the Caminito Del Rey trail to see the breathtaking views from 100 meters up themselves. The hike requires a lot of stamina and nerves of steel.
9. Cliffs of Moher by bike
Bored with city or even mountain biking? Try riding a double track on the Cliffs of Moher. The bicycle path is only 1m wide, next to a 200m high cliff. The views are unforgettable and you won’t find them anywhere else, but the risk is also enormous – all you need is a stronger gust of wind, slight dizziness, or a momentary loss of concentration, and accidents can happen. There are many daredevils and, unfortunately, a few people a year pay for these experiences with their lives.
10. Platform on the Aiguille du Midi
Step on the original enclosed glass viewing platform located above a 1000-meter chasm, protruding 2 meters from the edge of the rock. It was created on the top of Aiguille du Midi (3842 m above sea level) in the French Alps, near the highest mountain in Europe – Mont Blanc. You can get there by cable car from Chamonix. Thanks to the fully transparent structure, tourists have the impression that they are floating in the air.
There are many things to do for adrenaline junkies in Europe, but this list gives you something to start with. Whether you only need a little, family-friendly thrill or desire the highest dose of adrenaline, you will find a suitable attraction in relatively easily accessible places. If you hesitated before, this is your sign to go out there and have an adventure of your own!
