The Fairytale Forest at a European theme park is expanding once again, with construction well underway on a brand new attraction.
As the structural framework begins to take shape, fresh details have emerged regarding what guests will experience when they step inside the latest creation at Efteling theme park in Kaatsheuvel in the Netherlands.
The park is currently developing its 32nd fairytale installation, ‘De Sprookjesbibliotheek’, which will be The Fairytale Library. The construction site is situated near the former scene of The Chinese Nightingale, where a nine-metre-high building is steadily rising. For the first time, the theme park has decided to share a glimpse into the thematic elements that will form the core of the guest experience inside the building.
The creative vision for the space focuses on a globally sourced collection of stories. Jeroen Verheij, designer at the park, explains: “In The Fairytale Library, visitors will soon discover all the books filled with stories that the Fairytale Collector has gathered during his travels.
“They will also meet seven hard-working gnomes, who have accompanied the Fairytale Gatherer from all corners of the world over the years. The gnomes keep the library organised, welcoming and as complete as possible, because the Fairytale Collector himself is often away on his travels.”
Meet the library gnomes
Among the seven gnomes, the park has introduced a specific character known as the silence gnome. Like the other magical caretakers, this gnome is highly passionate and dedicated to maintaining the facility. A key characteristic of any traditional reading room is a quiet environment that allows individuals to read and explore without disturbance. It is the specific duty of the silence gnome to ensure this peaceful atmosphere remains intact for all visitors.
The addition of The Fairytale Library builds upon a long history for the destination. Since opening its doors in the south of Holland in 1952, Efteling has welcomed more than 130 million visitors. The location has grown over the decades through a programme of phased development, transforming into an international destination that now attracts five million visitors each year. It features natural surroundings, a unique fairytale atmosphere, and thrilling attractions, earning a spot among the top 25 theme parks globally according to the TEA Theme Index 2024, compiled by the Themed Entertainment Association.
The park operates all year round and positions itself as a short break destination for families. Guests can stay at nearby accommodations including the Efteling Wonder Hotel, or the holiday villages Efteling Bosrijk and Efteling Loonsche Land, which are located just a stone’s throw away.
For international industry professionals and tourists travelling from the United Kingdom, the site is accessible within an hour from Amsterdam. Transport options include taking the Eurostar to Amsterdam or Rotterdam, flying into Amsterdam Schiphol or Eindhoven Airport, or driving via the Eurotunnel. Local connections include regular trains to the nearby station of ‘s-Hertogenbosch, alongside direct bus and taxi services to the park entrance.
Efteling has also recently announced a major new roller coaster project, set to open in 2029.
