Review: Efteling Theme Park Resort

By Libby White | Europalaan 1, 5171 KW Kaatsheuvel, Netherlands | efteling.com

In a leafy corner of the southern Netherlands sits a theme park like no other. Think enchanted forests, fairytale castles and peculiar inhabitants at every turn. Steeped in European folklore, Efteling offers the perfect mix of attractions for thrill-seekers and those who prefer to take things at a gentler pace.

First opening in 1952 as a modest Fairytale Forest featuring just 10 stories, Efteling has evolved into one of Europe’s most celebrated theme parks while remaining true to its storytelling roots, making it the perfect destination for a family half-term getaway.

After a straightforward hour’s drive from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, we arrived at our home for the next two nights, the Efteling Wonder Hotel. Renovated and relaunched in 2025, this striking hotel, with its golden turrets, towering windows and unusual floating appearance, set the tone for our stay.

Inside, the imaginative theming was an instant hit with our two young children. Our seventh-floor room was equally enchanting, with intricate details and playful surprises, from a tiny hidden mouse to mysterious footprints, a game board and golden chocolate coins. Cosy, comfortable and wonderfully quiet, it provided the perfect retreat ahead of an adventure-filled day.

Our first morning began with breakfast at the hotel’s Saga Restaurant, where an impressive selection of sweet and savoury options awaited. Pancakes with tempting toppings proved a family favourite, alongside doughnuts, fresh juices and enchanting tableside visits from fairytale characters, much to the delight of our children.

Suitably fuelled, we made the most of one of the perks of staying on site: access to the park 30 minutes before the general public, giving hotel guests a head start on popular attractions.

However, despite visiting during the UK October half-term holiday, with glorious autumn sunshine to boot, the park never felt particularly busy. Our longest queue was just 20 minutes for Python, a high-speed steel rollercoaster, which my husband went on via the single-rider queue. With two children aged five and six who have little patience for waiting around, this was a huge bonus.

The Efteling app proved useful for checking live waiting times, while single-rider queues allowed us to enjoy the bigger thrills separately. My husband experienced Vogel Rok, an exhilarating indoor rollercoaster, while I accompanied the children on Carnaval Festival, a leisurely eight-minute boat journey around the world, complete with colourful characters and catchy music.

The park itself is divided into themed areas, with thrilling attractions including Baron 1898, a spectacular dive coaster featuring a 37.5-metre plunge, and De Vliegende Hollander (The Flying Dutchman), a water coaster combining atmospheric storytelling with a dramatic splashdown.

For me, however, the Fairytale Forest was particularly special and somewhere we could easily have spent an entire day. Originally created in 1952 with designs by Dutch illustrator Anton Pieck, this enchanting woodland is filled with intricate details, familiar fairytale characters and curious inhabitants, including Long Neck, whose towering neck rises above the trees. With charming food stalls (the freshly made stroopwafels are a must), traditional carousels and gentle rides nearby, it’s the perfect place to enjoy Efteling at a leisurely pace.

The food offering was equally impressive. We enjoyed dinner at Brasserie 7 in the newly opened Efteling Grand Hotel, perfectly positioned after watching Aquanura, a spectacular water show featuring dancing fountains, colourful lights and soaring jets set to music. Warming up inside the elegant restaurant, we found plenty to tempt us, from a dedicated children’s menu to beautifully cooked steak with a choice of sauces. Even the seasonings had a whimsical twist, with playful ‘dragon’s breath’ spices adding a little Efteling magic to the dining experience.

Our second day was just as enjoyable, with Fabula proving a firm favourite. This charming 4D film tells a heartwarming story without dialogue, removing any language barriers, while an expansive indoor play area, complete with restaurant and seating, allows parents to relax as little ones explore.

We’re already planning another visit with friends to tackle some of the more exhilarating rides. With year-round appeal and something for visitors of all ages, it’s easy to see why Efteling is a place families return to time and time again.

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