Fota Wildlife Park just unveiled a new panoramic wheel — here's what you need to know
One of Fotawildlife Parks Rothschild's giraffe in front of the new Panoramic Wheel. Picture: Darragh Kane.
Fota Wildlife Park just got an upgrade that allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the park from above.
A 35-metre-high panoramic wheel was officially opened at the park on Monday during an event attended by director of Fota Wildlife Park Aileen Tennant, president of Cork Chamber Rob Horgan, head of Visit Cork Seamus Heaney and president of Cobh and Harbour Chamber Toddy Stafford.
The newly opened temporary attraction will provide visitors with an aerial perspective of the 100-acre park and its surroundings, offering a bird's-eye view of the expansive landscapes and diverse wildlife habitats within the iconic visitor attraction.
The panoramic wheel is operated by an external provider with over 25 years combined of industry experience in presenting and operating panoramic wheels in various unique settings including city centre venues and other events.
The wheel is an optional, ticketed experience, with admission priced from €5 per person and will be available until June 8. Tickets can be purchased at a separate ticketing booth within the park.
Speaking about the latest addition to the park, director Aileen Tennant, said: “The panoramic wheel is another tool in showcasing Fota Wildlife Park’s commitment to animal care, conservation and sustainability while creating memorable experiences for visitors.
“This stunning attraction not only offers guests a breathtaking view of the park’s wildlife and their vast habitats, but it also showcases the historic beauty of Fota Island, the Great Island and Cork Harbour.
Since its installation, the wheel has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response, significantly boosting the experience of a family day out at the park and the number of people visiting us.
"This success helps us to continue delivering on our essential work in conservation, education and research.
“In recent years, we have committed to a process of decarbonising our operations and the panoramic wheel provides a clear view of the recently installed solar panels on the administration and education buildings and the refurbished giraffe house, a project co-funded by the Government via the Office of Public Works.”
Head of Visit Cork Seamus Heaney described the park as “a cornerstone of the tourism industry in Cork and Munster”, drawing over 430,000 visitors each year.
“Visit Cork is thrilled to witness the launch of this dynamic new experience—an exciting development that is set to boost visitor numbers, especially during the shoulder season, and further solidify the park’s pivotal role in the region’s tourism landscape,” he said.
The panoramic wheel is available to visitors of the park until June 8 and offers an elevated view of key areas within the Fota Wildlife Park, including the savannah, the renowned cheetah run, and the bison and lechwe paddock. People will also be able to spot landmarks such as Fota House and Belvelly Castle.
