Source: Center Parcs - The Center Parcs sign decorated for Winter Wonderland.
Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year and it could only mean one thing, Winter Wonderland at Center Parcs, Longleat Forest in Wiltshire.
I recommend a three- or four-night stay to get this magical Christmas experience. My suggestions for each day are as follows:
Day 1 -
I recommend on your first day that you go for cocktails at Las Iguanas a popular Latin American restaurant. Apple and pear margarita would be my recommendation and a perfect way to start your holiday.
One of my favourite parts of Centre parcs is the Plaza, a subtropical utopia, where most of the shops and restaurants are located. As soon as you enter you are transported to another land. At Christmas time its particularly beautiful as it is filled with twinkly fairy lights.
After your cocktails head to your lodge to unpack, before heading out to dinner. Hucks is an American style restaurant and is arguably one of my favourite restaurants in the resort. I recommend the chili accompanied with a glass of sangria, then home to the lodge for a cosy night playing games by the open fire.
source of images: taken by author - Snapshots of some of the beautiful locations at Center Parcs
Day 2 –
On the second day after you have consumed a hearty breakfast, I recommend catching the land train to the Sports Plaza. The Sports Plaza is a huge arena consisting of rocks walls, squash courts, arcade games, football, pool, and badminton courts. A game of badminton is always a favourite of mine, however it’s safe to say that I will not be pursuing badminton as a career any time soon.
I suggest a walk back to your lodge, through the village square which is where most of the festive attractions are including: singing reindeer, a snowy Christmas tree walkway and plenty of photo opportunities.
After lunch head to the subtropical swimming paradise. When I say paradise, I mean it. The water slides and flumes are hidden among the tropical trees. In my opinion the rapids are the highlight of the water park because they take you on an adrenaline-filled journey around the outside of the plaza. If can stay in the outdoor pool after dark and experience the Christmas lights from the water.
Source of images: taken by author - Las Iguanas, the peaceful lake and my fruit cocktail.
Day 3 -
I recommend starting day three with a trip to Aqua Sana spa. The spa is one of the more popular attractions in the resort. The spa consists of different areas. For example, there is an alpine area with a wooden sauna and an ice room, volcanic area with a lava inspired sauna and a stunning red and black steam room. There is a beautiful swimming pool in the centre and hot tubs outside. In the middle of your session, I recommend a glass of prosecco and a piece of cake.
After another trip to the subtropical swimming paradise, I recommend you spend your final evening in the Indian restaurant called Rajinda Pradesh, to walk off your meal I recommend taking a night time stroll through the new Christmas light attraction. This is amazing, especially because the lights are timed so perfectly to music.
source of images: taken by author - The Aqua Sana Spa, winter wonderland decorations and the rapids at night time.
Day 4 –
On your final day, don’t rush home. Enjoy a last stroll around the plaza and a final swim in the tropical paradise.
Source of video: taken by author - A calming waterfall from inside the plaza.
Center Parcs is an amazing holiday destination and I think it is even more special in December during winter wonderland. However, they do offer a wide range of outdoor activities which would be ideal for a summer getaway. Overall, Center Parcs perfect all year round!
Until next year!
Source of video: taken by author - Tour of the lodge.
This is the interior of a standard 6 bedroom lodge
Click the links below to view videos of the waterpark:
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