Germany’s Freizeitpark Sommerrodelbahn: A Century of Fun
Photo: Freizeitpark Sommerrodelbahn
(eap) Since 1926, around 100,000 visitors of all ages have been drawn to Ibbenbüren in Germany’s Teutoburger Forest every year. Here, the historic 100-metre-long rail-guided toboggan run, created 100 years ago by miner Hermann Derhake, continues to delight guests. The historic attraction remains the centrepiece of the Freizeitpark Sommerrodelbahn family park, which describes itself as Germany’s oldest amusement park. Today, the family business is already being run by the fourth generation and continues to focus on nostalgic charm in a natural setting.
Photo: Freizeitpark Sommerrodelbahn
In its anniversary year, the operating family is making targeted investments in the substance of the park and is presenting visitors with various new features throughout the season. These include a new kart track for children up to the age of six, replacing the former classic bumper car attraction. “We wanted to lovingly continue the story of our former bumper cars, which had been an integral part of the park since 1974,” explains park owner Luisa Derhake. “The new ride involves a great deal of handcraftsmanship and the aim of creating a fairytale atmosphere for children up to around six years old.”
Under the name “Zwergen-Flitzer”, a covered area of around 300 square metres has been created, where children can complete their laps in vehicles from Sela Group. The nature-inspired theming with wood elements and dwarf figures was implemented in-house. IMAscore contributed an exclusive soundtrack for the new attraction: a playful, fairytale-like melody is complemented by sound effects such as squealing tyres and revving engines. Attentive visitors may also recognise the melody of the park song in the composition.
Zwergen-Flitzer | Photo: Freizeitpark Sommerrodelbahn
In addition, the “Oldtimer Express” train ride has received a new bridge, and the heart of the park – the historic summer toboggan run – is also shining in new splendour in time for the park’s anniversary. The anniversary year is accompanied by exclusive merchandise items marking the park’s birthday. For the first time, the offering is also being complemented by its own mascot: “Zwergerich” is becoming an official part of the park family and is also available to take home in miniature format as a plush figure. ■
