Unfinished Water Park, Portugal

Hidden away in the forests of Portugal, far from the sun-kissed shores and tourist towns, lies an Unfinished Water Park. Water parks like these are common along the coastline. Usually they are bustling with families during the summer. This one, however, seems terribly out of place. It is far from the coast, well away from the popular vacation hotspots. In fact, this abandoned water park never opened! Its skeletal frame stands as an incomplete monument to an ambitious, failed project.

I visited this Unfinished Water Park during my 2022 Portugal Road Trip.

Why does this attraction remain unfinished?

The project first emerged in the late 2000s. A premier leisure destination for aquatic family fun and a place to cool off at the height of the baking Portuguese summers. Plans include thrilling slides, themed play areas, and various other water-based attractions.

Due to an initial investment of about 25 million euros, there was quick progress on the ground at first. As the building proceeded, the public became more excited, and everything appeared to be on schedule for the grand opening. Unfortunately, all progress was abruptly halted in the middle of the work plan. Rumour has it that the project ran into several roadblocks caused by bureaucratic red tape and the need to get various permits. Another possibility is that the money needed to finish the project ran out. That being said, apparently the owner is still committed to bringing the project back to life. A decade after work stopped, however, the local authorities are demanding its demolition.

Exploring an abandoned water park in Portugal

Making my way through the hole in the fence, I crossed the rickety bridge to the water park. The brightly-coloured water slides caught my eye first, snaking and coiling their way from the very top of the bare concrete structure. Inside this largest building is also a shipwreck-themed play area, which I thought was pretty cute.

Other areas include some orange outdoor slides and smaller paddling pools. Off in the bushes was a children’s swing ride, which was looking much more dilapidated than the rest of the park. I particularly liked the little wooden horse-shaped seating!