‘Hobbit’ theme park coming to Spain
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}A still from a tour Hobbiton, the movie set in New Zealand used to create the world of 'The Shire' in 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit.' (YouTube/Stoked for Saturday)
Looks like New Zealand won't be only the destination for lovers of Frodo and Bilbo.
Plans for a “Hobbit” fantasy theme park in Rincon de la Victoria, Spain were unveiled last month at the international tourism fair FITUR in Madrid , reports Euro Weekly News.
“La Comarca”—which is Spanish for “The Shire”—will sit on just eight hectacres in the Andalucia region. Hobbits, apparently, do not require much room to romp.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}“The Shire will become one of the major tourism attractions of our town. The material will have a very low environmental impact, to create an integrated image in nature,” Francisco Salado, mayor of Rincon de la Victoria, announced while revealing plans.
The relatively low-budget park is estimated to cost just over $1.9 billion and will be partially funded by the Malaga Provincial Council
“It will be a place in which family leisure, sports and nature will go hand-in-hand in a unique space of great beauty set in a time of fairy tales and the magic of the elves. Without a doubt, Rincon de la Victoria will have a top-rated tourist attraction, which will also add to the variety of attractions of Malaga,” Salado told media.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}According to the released plans, La Comarca will be divided into three distinct areas. The Parque Urbano will be a walking attraction for those who do not wish to traverse long distances; Zona de Aventura will include climbing walls, hobbit homes, swings and slides; and there will be a medium sized lake feature in the middle of the grounds.
Rinconsol and Elimar, two local hotels, announced they will also create themed-guest rooms inspired by Tolkein to coincide with the park’s opening.