Brand‑New On‑Site Luxury Hotel (Opening August 1, 2025)
Efteling Grand Hotel is launching on August 1, 2025, marking the park’s first hotel located inside its gates
With a majestic seven‑storey design and 140 rooms (up to 644 beds), the hotel features a luxe Wes Anderson‑style vibe .
Guests will enjoy premier amenities: digital check‑in, valet parking, luggage handling, spa with pool/sauna, signature fragrances, and even greetings from hotel bellhops and Efteling princesses .
Each room includes complimentary breakfast, early park access, and views of key attractions like the Fairy‑tale Forest, Aquanura show, or Baron 1898 coaster
Dining on-site splits between Brasserie 7 (casual fare) and upscale Mystique (edible décor), plus Café Biscuit for coffee and signature biscuits .
2026 Expansion: New Family‑Friendly Ride & Fairytale
A family‑oriented free‑fall attraction is set to open Summer 2026, adjacent to the Baron 1898 dive coaster . It will be milder in scale, aiming to help crowd flow while maintaining immersive storytelling .
Expect a brand‑new “Princess and the Pea” scene in the Fairytale Forest—the 31st tale—housed in a gazebo connected to the Grand Hotel, opening by spring 2025 .
Recent & Upcoming Updates (Park‑wide)
De Vliegende Hollander (Flying Dutchman) has reopened (April 18, 2025) with a refreshed scene and enhanced photo spot .
The Wonder Hotel (formerly Efteling Hotel) closed January 6, 2025, for comprehensive refurbishment, and reopens mid‑April with new suites and styling as the Efteling Wonder Hotel.
Danse Macabre, a haunting new immersive ride, debuted October 31, 2024, in the Huyverwoud area, complete with themed entertainment and dining .
Park-wide upgrades include electric trains replacing coal, a new comedy theatre (Dec 2024), extended summer opening hours, and upgraded facilities in the Fairy‑tale Forest .
Making the Trip from the UK
Efteling appeals strongly to British visitors—attendance from the UK has skyrocketed by 116% from 2016–2023 .
Travel options include Eurostar to Amsterdam followed by a 1‑hour drive, or flights to Eindhoven from around £26 Ryanair, with a short 30‑minute drive to the park .
Jet2CityBreaks now offers packages including flights to Amsterdam, four‑star hotel stays at Efteling, and free park tickets with some deals starting from £289 per person (2 adults + 2 kids, 3 nights) .
British Families Share Their Experiences
A UK family of four visiting for £1,200 total (flights, car hire, 3‑day park, hotel) rated it “absolutely insane value for money”—they praised the theming, efficiency, and English-friendly environment
Another UK group reported no significant language barrier: information is mostly bilingual, staff speak English, and rides include English in narration or signage .
Many mention the thematic depth, immersive storytelling, and enchanting musical atmosphere as standout features—remarking that Efteling delivers “world‑class” experience with a distinct European charm .
Practical Tips for Brits
Ticket prices: €38–53 for ages 4+ (kids under 3 free); group discounts available .
Language support: English widely spoken; critical announcements are multilingual; apps and maps available in English .
Early access: Hotel guests at Grand Hotel enjoy 30 minutes early entry to the park
Stay options: On-site hotels include the upcoming Grand Hotel, Wonder Hotel, Bosrijk, and Loonsche Land. Consider Bosrijk for family-friendly lodge-style living .
Booking advice: Pair stay with park tickets via Jet2CityBreaks or book flights + DIY package for flexibility and value.
Summary
British visitors are flocking to Efteling, drawn by its remarkable storytelling, immersive attractions, and great value. 2025–26 will bring even more magic: the Grand Hotel, new rides, and enhanced fairytale experiences. Travel from the UK is easy and affordable, with multilingual support ensuring comfort for English-speaking guests.
If you’re planning a trip, consider staying at the Grand Hotel for extra perks, explore travel-package deals, and get ready for a uniquely enchanting experience that many Brits are already calling their favourite European theme‑park adventure.
