Efteling is preparing to welcome visitors back to one of its most prominent areas following an extensive multi-million euro redevelopment.
After remaining closed for nearly a year, the Dutch theme park has confirmed when guests can step back into the world of Raveleijn to experience its updated environment, new ride, and refreshed live entertainment.
The revamped themed area in Kaatsheuvel will officially reopen its gates on 1 December. The overall development project represents a total investment of €20 million, allocated across three distinct components: €10 million for a brand-new live stunt show, €5 million for structural renovations across the area, and €5 million for a newly built attraction.
Director of Product, Marketing & Image Koen Sanders outlined the scope of the renewal project: “The sets have been extensively revamped and Raveleijn is getting a brand-new show packed with spectacular stunts, created in collaboration with the French theme park Puy du Fou. At the heart of the story: when evil arises, the heroes of Raveleijn join forces. The total investment in the renewal of Raveleijn amounts to €20 million: €10 million for the new show, €5 million for the area’s renovation, and €5 million for the new Ravenring attraction.”
First opened in 2011, Raveleijn centres on the tale of five ordinary children who pass through a secret gate to transform into brave riders defending the city against evil forces. The updated production, titled Raveleijn: Battle for the City, moves the storyline forward by ten years following the defeat of the dragon Draconicon and the villain Olaf Grafhart. Set on the wedding day of characters Thomas and Samira, the plot sees a dark force disrupt the celebrations on the town square beneath the statue of protector Countess Halina.
Located outside the city walls in a newly themed encampment, the area will feature a brand-new flat ride called Ravenring. Manufactured by Dutch supplier Vekoma, the attraction takes the form of a whirling flight ritual designed to test the courage of prospective heroes and reveal their alignment with five magical elements. The ride incorporates 18 winged vehicles styled after ravens, carrying up to 36 visitors per cycle.
The project also brings comprehensive updates to the area’s commercial infrastructure. A new dining establishment, De Verslaeghen Draek Inn, will offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner options with a menu based on international ingredients and recipes brought back by travellers, alongside themed items such as wedding cake slices. Retail operations will be housed in In den Ravenkorf, a new souvenir shop featuring dressing-up costumes, toys, and merchandise arranged around a central raven’s nest display and exposed timber beams housing hidden ravens.
Efteling also recently announced its first suspended launch coaster, Mission Luminar, which will open in 2029.
