Europa-Park Closed: Dismantled Coasters & New Thatched Roofs

While most visitors are missing Europa-Park, a hive of activity is underway behind the closed gates. Every year, the park uses its multi-week winter closure for comprehensive maintenance – far more than just a simple break. This phase ensures the highest safety standards, impeccable quality and the magical experience that millions of fans expect year after year.

Instead of being empty and quiet, the park turns into one big workshop. Screwing, painting, inspecting and renewing are happening everywhere. The attraction trains gleam in the winter sunlight while gardeners prepare the flower beds for the new season.

Particularly impressive are the works at great heights. The Euro-Tower rises 75 meters into the air, while Silver Star reaches 73 meters. The mechanics work with special safety equipment and are specially trained for high-altitude tasks. They work closely with the in-house fire department, which includes specially trained climbers.

One of the five mechanical team leaders, Björn Zimmer, explains: “The biggest challenge in this phase is time. The deadlines are tight, everything has to be coordinated and checked. The schedules must mesh perfectly so that dismantling and reassembly can be completed on schedule.”

For the teams, the off-season is the most intense time of the year. Attractions are dismantled and inspected far more thoroughly than is possible during regular operation. This winter, among other things, the Jungfrau-Gletscherflieger was completely dismantled and comprehensively renewed. For roller coasters with few trains, such as Silver Star or the Alpenexpress “Enzian”, major work can only begin when the park is closed.

This year’s highlights include the replacement of lift chains on Fjord Rafting and the Swiss Bob Run as well as a comprehensive overhaul of Matterhorn Blitz, including new gears, chain and overhauled motors. The water coaster Poseidon is also receiving a full overhaul in certain sections. Pumps for water attractions are serviced, metal parts are stripped, sandblasted and recoated.

A special project concerns the building structure: The thatched roofs of the Adventure Food Station and the Seehaus have been completely re-thatched for the first time – around 500 square meters in total. The reed comes from Turkey, from a region near the Dead Sea, and was laid with great attention to detail to preserve the authentic character.

All work follows a strict manufacturer-specified maintenance schedule. The older an attraction, the more intensive the maintenance. This ensures the park shines in top condition again on time.

Just a few more weeks to go: Pre-Opening takes place on March 22, with the official season opening on March 28. Those who want to shorten the wait can visit the year-round open water world Rulantica, which is currently shining in the magical Nordic Lights Festival until March 27.