The Dutch theme park Efteling has officially expanded its Ruigrijk Realm with the opening of Hooghmoed, a new drop tower attraction designed specifically for younger thrill-seekers.
Located in the area surrounding the Baron 1898 dive coaster, the new attraction was inaugurated with an opening ceremony on 1 May, featuring a performance by Dutch actress and singer Fenna Ramos.
A Themed Expansion
Hooghmoed shares the industrial, gold-mining theme of its larger neighbour, Baron 1898. While the dive coaster follows the story of Baron Gustave Hooghmoed’s quest for gold, this attraction casts younger visitors in the role of the Baron’s "chimney sweeps".
Fons Jurgens, CEO of Efteling, noted that the addition is part of a broader vision to create more immersive themed worlds. "Hooghmoed also contributes to a broader range of attractions for younger thrill-seekers in this area of Efteling," Jurgens stated.
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Attraction Details and Specifications
The new attraction is housed within a "gold smeltery" featuring a 14.5-metre-high chimney. It consists of three individual drop towers, each reaching a height of 12 metres.
- Height Requirement: The ride is accessible to guests at least 90 centimetres tall.
- Supervision: Children must be accompanied by someone at least 130 centimetres tall and aged 16 or older.
- Ride Experience: Each tower has a ride sequence of approximately 1.5 minutes with a maximum drop height of six metres.
- Capacity: Each tower holds 10 people, allowing for 30 guests per ride and an hourly capacity of roughly 600 visitors.
- Special Effects: To enhance the immersion, the ride utilizes sound, mist, and smoke effects.
Musical Celebration
To celebrate the launch, Fenna Ramos performed the new song 'No One Can Bring Us Down'. Specially written for the opening, the track focuses on themes of courage, bravery, and self-confidence.
Visiting Efteling
Ranked amongst the top 25 theme parks globally, Efteling is open year-round. Located in the south of Holland, it is easily accessible for international travellers via the Eurostar to Rotterdam or Amsterdam, and flights to Eindhoven or Schiphol.
