Efteling: Opening Date of “Hooghmoed” Announced
Concept art of "Hooghmoed" at Efteling
© Efteling
(eap) At Efteling, a new attraction specifically designed for younger visitors is currently being developed near the popular dive coaster “Baron 1898”. The opening date for “Hooghmoed” has now been confirmed: the brand-new drop tower attraction will officially commence operations on 1 May.
Supplied by Zierer, the installation comprises three freefall towers and is aimed at children from a height of 90 centimetres, provided they are accompanied by a person measuring at least 130 centimetres. The concept promises an age-appropriate level of thrill combined with a thematic design aligned with the surrounding area, as the attraction ties into the storyline of “Baron Gustave Hooghmoed.”
According to the storyline, the character operates a smelting works next to the gold mine, whose chimney requires regular cleaning. The young “chimney sweeps” – i.e. the riders – ascend the structure via a lift . At a height of 9.5 metres, the experience takes an unexpected turn: after the gondolas rotate, they descend back down through mist and smoke.
Each of the three towers will be equipped with a seat designed to be as accessible as possible. However, guests must be able to transfer independently from a wheelchair or mobility scooter to the seat. The park states a theoretical maximum capacity of 600 persons per hour.
Further information on this season’s novelties at European theme parks will be published in the upcoming March/April issue of EAP, to be released next week. ■
