Pl de Tibidabo,
Tibidabo

Located high up above the city, at the summit of Tibidabo, this famous amusement park is a charming mix of old and new rides and attractions. You can reach the park via the Tibibus from Pl. Catalunya, or by the more adventurous Blue Tram and Funicular Railway. Tibidabo is Barcelona's traditional urban outing.

The funfair, known locally as La Muntanya Màgica, is permanently engraved on the psyche of any child growing up in Barcelona. For this reason it's held in much affection, and in 1989 was happily saved from demise when a refurbishment added new rides to compliment the old.

For some of the craziest ideas look to two of its older inhabitants. First, board the buzzing aeroplane, 'TibiAir', for circular flights dangling from a giant crane. The little red aircraft has been looping around since 1928, and was, at one time, considered a serious practice run for anyone about to travel in the real thing. Second, and even more eccentric, must be the slightly rickety looking 'La Atalaya' -- a bonkers basket-type device which swings its victims vertically upward for a view they may or may not enjoy. A basket for basket-cases maybe.

contributor: Nigel Hayler