Chasing the Loop: My First Ride on Europa Park’s Newest Steel Beast

If you’ve ever stood in line for a coaster that promises a “world‑first” element, you know the mix of excitement and skepticism that builds up. Europa Park just dropped its latest steel marvel, the Loop, and the buzz is louder than the park’s own soundtrack. I spent a sunny Saturday in Rust to see if the hype lives up to the physics.

The Build‑Up: Why the Loop Matters

A new record in the making?

When the park announced a “double‑inverting, 120‑degree over‑banked turn,” my inner nerd went into overdrive. In coaster lingo, an “inversion” is any section where riders go upside‑down. A “double‑inverting” element means you flip twice in quick succession, a feat that only a handful of rides worldwide attempt without a massive drop in comfort. The “over‑banked turn” is a curve tilted beyond 90 degrees, giving you the sensation of hanging on the side of a wall.

The promise of a smoother ride

Europa’s engineers bragged about a new “smooth‑track” technology that reduces the jarring “head‑bang” many steel coasters are infamous for. In plain terms, they used a tighter tolerance on the rail welding and a special polymer coating that dampens vibrations. If the claim holds, the Loop could be the first high‑intensity coaster that feels more like a glide than a grind.

First Impressions: From Queue to Launch

The queue is a lesson in anticipation

The line for the Loop snakes past the park’s iconic “Euro‑Star” coaster, and you can feel the chatter building. Families with kids clutching souvenir maps, thrill‑seekers snapping photos of the massive orange‑and‑black train, and a few nervous first‑timers all share the same nervous grin. The park’s staff hand out a quick safety briefing that feels more like a friendly chat than a lecture—something I appreciate after years of being lectured about “keep your hands inside the ride.”

The launch: a punch of power

The train launches out of the station with a rapid acceleration that feels like being pushed by a friendly giant. In coaster terms, that’s a “launch” powered by a linear synchronous motor (LSM), which uses magnetic fields to catapult the train forward. The acceleration is measured at about 0.9 g, meaning you feel almost the same force as gravity pulling you back into your seat. It’s enough to make your stomach do a little flip, but not so much that you start questioning your life choices.

The Loop Experience: What the Ride Actually Does

The double‑inverting “Loop‑Twist”

The first major element is a vertical loop that twists midway, turning the classic loop into a corkscrew‑like motion. As you crest the top, you’re briefly upside‑down, then the track twists you back to a right‑side‑up position before completing the loop. The transition is surprisingly fluid; the new smooth‑track tech really shines here. You get the classic “weightless” feeling without the head‑bang that usually follows a rapid inversion.

The 120‑degree over‑banked turn

Immediately after the Loop‑Twist, the train barrels into a sweeping turn that leans past 90 degrees. Imagine driving a race car on a mountain road where the road itself leans into the curve. The sensation is a mix of lateral G‑force (the side‑pull you feel) and a subtle feeling of hanging on the edge. The ride’s designers kept the radius wide enough that the force stays comfortable—around 1.2 g—so you’re thrilled, not terrified.

The mid‑course brake run

A brief brake section lets the train slow just enough for the next set of elements. It’s a good moment to catch your breath and glance at the park’s lush landscaping. The brakes are magnetic, meaning they use eddy currents to slow the train without physical contact, preserving the smoothness of the ride.

The finale: a helix and a splash of airtime

The ride ends with a tight helix—a spiraling descent that builds up a final burst of G‑force—followed by a short airtime hill that gives you a quick “float” feeling before the final brake. The airtime is modest, about 0.3 g, but it’s enough to make the kids in the back squeal with delight.

How It Stacks Up Against Other Steel Giants

Comfort vs. intensity

Compared to the park’s own “Silver Star,” which is known for its raw speed and rough edges, the Loop feels more refined. The ride’s intensity is high, but the comfort level is a step up, thanks to the smoother track and magnetic brakes. If you love a good shake, you might miss the “old school” feel of a rougher coaster, but for most families looking for a big thrill without the after‑ride headache, the Loop hits the sweet spot.

Value for the ticket price

Europa Park’s ticket price has risen slightly this season, and the Loop is part of the “Premium Pass” bundle. Considering the ride’s unique elements—double inversion, over‑banked turn, and the smooth‑track claim—I’d say it justifies the extra cost. It’s a ride you can’t find anywhere else in Europe, and the experience feels fresh even after a few repeats.

Practical Tips for Future Riders

Arrive early – The Loop’s popularity means the line can stretch to 30 minutes on a busy day. A fast‑pass can shave that down, but the regular queue moves quickly thanks to efficient loading.
Secure loose items – The launch’s sudden push can fling hats and scarves. Use the park’s lockers if you’re carrying anything that can fly.
Ride with a mix of ages – The height requirement is 130 cm, but the ride’s smoothness makes it suitable for older kids who can handle a mild upside‑down moment.

Bottom Line: A Worthy New Crown Jewel

The Loop isn’t just another steel coaster; it’s a statement that Europa Park is still pushing the envelope. The combination of a double inversion, a daring over‑banked turn, and a track that feels almost buttery makes it a must‑ride for anyone who loves a good adrenaline rush without the post‑ride regret. I left the station with my heart still racing and a grin that lasted well into the evening fireworks. If you’re planning a trip to Europe’s premier amusement destination, put the Loop at the top of your list—your inner thrill‑seeker will thank you.