Danse Macabre: Efteling’s New Horror Attraction Opens: A Unique Ride in an Eerie Atmosphere

Today, on October 31st, Efteling’s new attraction, Danse Macabre, opens its doors, promising an intense, globally unique experience. Built on the grounds of the former Spookslot, this thrilling haunt is designed specifically for brave visitors aged eight and up. Combining groundbreaking technology with immersive show design, Danse Macabre positions Efteling as a pioneer of a brand-new ride system.

An Unforgettable Dance in Huyverwoud

At the heart of the new Huyverwoud theme area, Danse Macabre offers a captivating experience inside a dark chapel, where visitors take their seats on an 18-meter-wide turntable. The platform is surrounded by six smaller rotating disks, each featuring choir benches with 18 seats, allowing up to 108 guests to enjoy the experience simultaneously. The main turntable lifts, tilts, and spins at various angles, creating an unmatched dynamic. This ride system, developed in close collaboration with renowned manufacturer Intamin, accommodates over 1,200 people per hour. Access is granted to adventurers at least 1.20 meters tall, with a recommended minimum age of eight.

Background and Transformation of the Spookslot

The Spookslot, a staple of Efteling since 1978, has been replaced by Danse Macabre due to its deteriorating condition. The new area honors the history and style of the original attraction, drawing inspiration from Belgian abbeys like Villers-la-Ville, Aulne, and Orval. Visitors enter Huyverwoud through a gate and follow a winding path through the old abbey’s remains, a mystical herb garden, and an ancient cemetery until they reach the chapel entrance. This evocative atmosphere is deepened by the eerie landscape and haunting soundscape, transporting visitors to a world far removed from everyday life.

Inclusion and Accessible Experiences

Efteling has taken great care to ensure that visitors with disabilities can enjoy Danse Macabre. The attraction is partially accessible and offers an alternative experience room where visitors can engage their senses with immersive show effects. The “waiting journey” through Huyverwoud is also accessible to all, allowing everyone to enjoy the area’s haunting atmosphere. Guests must be able to walk at least 13 meters to access the ride; however, an alternative experience is available for those with limited mobility. Collaborating with specialized organizations, including Stichting de Zonnebloem and the Nederlandse Vereniging voor Autisme, Efteling has ensured that all aspects of the attraction meet accessibility requirements.

Huyverwoud’s Theme and Characters

Huyverwoud is not only the setting for Danse Macabre but also home to the mysterious Charlatan family of merchants. Inside Dr. Charlatans Kwalycke Zaken, they sell spooky souvenirs and lucky charms. Visitors can fuel up at the In den Swarte Kat tavern before entering the chapel. The menu includes themed treats like cauldron cakes, abbey bread, and the park’s signature “Blood Juice.” Additional snacks, such as popcorn and ice cream, are sold at the nearby ’t Koetshuys.

Sustainability and Reuse in Huyverwoud

Sustainability is a core principle behind Huyverwoud’s design. The heat generated by the spinning turntable in Danse Macabre is recycled through the WKO project and reused to heat other areas of the park, even preventing the Aquanura lake from freezing in winter. Many original elements from the Spookslot have been incorporated into the new area: antique candleholders now adorn the showroom, chandeliers illuminate the souvenir shop, and gravestones from the Spookslot cemetery line the herb garden. Even employee uniforms have been crafted from recycled materials, reflecting the park’s commitment to sustainable operations and conservation.

Technical Details and Music of the Attraction

The ride system’s impressive structure weighs around 65,000 kilograms. Over 600 lighting fixtures and a modern surround sound system with 64 speakers, including 53 top speakers, 10 subwoofers, and an ultra-subwoofer, create an immersive atmosphere. The ride takes 3.5 minutes, accompanied by a fresh arrangement of Danse Macabre, produced by composer René Merkelbach and performed by the largest orchestra in Efteling’s history, a 75-piece ensemble.

The Legend of the Charlatan Family and the Mystery of the Danse Macabre

Danse Macabre draws on the legend of conductor Joseph Charlatan, who, along with his orchestra, disappeared without a trace in 1876. The story claims that the Charlatan family has been investigating his fate for generations, searching for answers. Visitors can uncover clues at the Kabinet der Vermisten, where they learn more about the tale through sign language, Braille, and unique sound effects. The enigmatic barrel organ, Esmeralda, plays a central role in the legend, adding a touch of mystery to this chilling tale.

Exclusive Preview for Press and Contest Winners

Yesterday, Danse Macabre was unveiled to the international press and selected guests. Additionally, 600 lucky winners of a drawing, chosen from over 250,000 participants, had the opportunity to experience the attraction firsthand. The event garnered widespread attention, highlighting the anticipation surrounding this one-of-a-kind attraction. Koen Sanders, Efteling’s Director of Product, Market, and Image, expressed pride in the uniqueness of the ride system and the immersive experience that Danse Macabre offers visitors.

Additional Facts and Figures

Danse Macabre is the most expensive attraction in Efteling’s history, with an investment of €35 million and over two years of construction. The chapel structure towers nearly 20 meters high and can accommodate up to 108 visitors per ride. The Huyverwoud theme area spans approximately 17,000 m², with around 500 employees involved in its construction.

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