What's new

Impromptu German adventure Oct 23

Thekingin64

Strata Poster
A few weeks ago I realized I had holiday to use up before November, and the ECC are having a small meet up in Stuttgart this coming weekend. Out of that, a 2 week German adventure by public transport was born. Similarly to my 2019 Netherlands trip, I shall try and update this nightly with my thoughts of the day (and hopefully won't smash my phone this time...).

Day 0 - travel

Nnothing particularly exciting today. Evening flight out of Manchester into Munich with easyJet. Flight was on time but got delayed at passport control. This is my first European trip since Brexit regulations came in so first time experiencing the slower non-eu passport queue, got stuck behind a load of Asians needing their visas checked and further details taken.... I was near the front of the group off the plane but eu queue was still empty by the time I got near the front of non-eu queue...
IMG_20231002_171738142_HDR.jpg
The plane
Still made my train though and got to hotel fine. Currently sat in hotel bar using up free drinks vouchers given just for staying here. Due to a mix up at check in, got double the amount of vouchers I was supposed to, definitely making use of them!

IMG_20231002_233103711.jpg
IMG_20231002_233114688_BURST000_COVER_AI.jpg
The beer and me (may end up having a lot more of this stuff over the next 2 days)
 
Day 1 part 1 - Oktoberfest

Knowing it's the final day of Oktoberfest today, I went in expecting it to be packed and I'd be lucky to cred run the place, let alone experience the beer tents, arguably the main attraction at Oktoberfest. Despite all pathways being packed, stereotypical German efficiency means very fast moving queues on the rides so managed to get all coasters done in less than 4 hours. Currently writing this from the HB beer tent, there may be another update later about any night rides done.

Arrived just after opening at 11am and made a beeline for the creds. Aimed to tick off the big apple first but arrived at the 2 wild mice instead. Joined the queue for the left one (lifthill on right) first only for it to break down briefly. Not sure of the cause of the delay but it was fixed and I was on before the people in the longer queue for the other mouse. Once done, I immediately joined the queue for the other mouse to get it out the way. Both rides were very typical for a Maurer mouse, nothing particularly standout.

Price: €8 per person per ride (so €16 for both)

IMG_20231003_111513614_HDR.jpg

Despite aiming to do all coasters first, dr Archibald was next door to the mice and id heard very good things about it. This turned out to be a much longer queue than expected at almost an hour. Ride itself was fun and different than most. Worth doing but not at the price I paid and wouldnt rush be back. No spoilers but the ride doesn't end when you get out the ride vehicle....

Very impressive facade though, with some interactivity in the queue.

Price: €12
IMG_20231003_120624906_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231003_120653195_HDR.jpg

Continuing round, alpina bahn was next. Ride must be on max capacity as trains were flying out. No sooner had you sat down, you were dispatched with another train entering the station. Made for a very fast queue. Can definitely see the difference between this and Olympia. Alpina seems more focused on speed on graceful transitions while Olympia is more forceful and has the inversions. Currently undecided which is better, will get a reride later this evening.

Price: €9

IMG_20231003_144933950_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231003_131422085_HDR.jpg

Again continuing my anticlockwise direction around Oktoberfest meant höllenblitz was next. Despite hearing mixed things about this, am glad it's reopened after it's incident a few weeks ago. It's only running one train currently so very slow queue but still got on sooner than dr Archibald. Turns out to be great fun and perhaps my favorite ride so far today. Love a good spinner and this hit the spot. Will be going for another run later.

Price: €10
IMG_20231003_132521235_HDR.jpg

As seen in the photo above, Olympia looping was right next door. Have ridden this a few times in London but it's always worth another go. Running just as well as ever, managed to not get the restraints to squish my shoulders too much either. All very good but at €12.50 a go, think I'll be prioritising Alpina and höllenblitz for rerides tonight.

Spent almost half an hour finding the final coaster, wandering around the whole site, to find it almost opposite Alpina Bahn. Pirateninsel is a stereotypical big apple. 3 laps, not much else to say.

Price: €4
IMG_20231003_145603132_HDR.jpg

After a quick lunch grabbed from a nearby stall, made my way into the nearest beer tent. After thinking I wouldn't have time for this, I'm making the most of it!
IMG_20231003_152827787_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231003_152848763.jpg
More later, depending on how long I stay here
 
Last edited:
I too struggled to find Pirateninsel, wandered around for ages before I found it :)

The Hacker-Pschorr was just about the best beer IMHO - wasn't Helles like the others, is a Märzen - a little less light and with a bit more taste to it I thought, not that the others weren't good. @ATTACKHAMMER favoured the Augustiner I think.

Prost!
 
Got back to hotel about 90mins ago. Phone died soon after leaving beer tent and wouldn't charge until now. Did a few more flat rides and rerode Alpina, höllenblitz and Olympia looping before leaving.

Got a more balanced car on höllenblitz this time so wasn't as good as before. Still very good fun though. Still undecided on Alpina vs Olympia. Both have their own strengths and weaknesses.

If my phone hadnt have died (and refuse to charge from battery pack), I might have stayed and tried a different beer tent or 2. Overall, place was packed but still good fun. Expensive though, spent well over €200 and could easily be double that had I stayed longer.
 
Last edited:
Day 2 - Munich

No coasters today, and no real plan either. After a relaxed start to the day, I headed over to the Deutsche Verkehrs Museum, a large transport museum located near to Oktoberfest. Those who know me in person will know trains are another passion of mine, so will often seek out a museum where possible. Museum itself was very well presented, with a lot to see without feeling crammed in. Split between 3 halls each with a different themes; hall 1 being local transport, hall 2 Intercity transport and hall 3 being a mix of technology, safety and a brief racing section. Photo highlights:
IMG_20231004_111447076_HDR.jpg
Most of hall 1
IMG_20231004_113019958_HDR.jpg
The exact model of underground train I ride to get to the museum. Dates from 1968 apparently, and still running fine.

IMG_20231004_114847543.jpg
Old vs new
IMG_20231004_122529216_HDR.jpg
Silver star gets a little shout out! It is a form of transport after all...

Museum was dead, until I decided to leave. As I was leaving, a huge school group appeared and took over the place. Since the museum was next door to the Oktoberfest grounds, I thought I'd take a walk around the outside and see if anything interesting has happened on the deconstruction side of things
IMG_20231004_133723318_HDR.jpg
Olympia looping still in one piece
IMG_20231004_133909935_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231004_134147165_HDR.jpg
Höllenblitz still in one piece but with rear facade removed. A rare chance to see the interior in daylight.

IMG_20231004_134820778.jpg
Alpina Bahn in one piece but with many working on the track

IMG_20231004_135339893_HDR.jpg
Wild mice on their way down. Here we see photo booth being loaded into truck.

IMG_20231004_135002919.jpg
Dr Archibald with rear facade removed but track in one piece

IMG_20231004_140435181_HDR.jpg
Inside the church outside Oktoberfest. I'm by no means religious but love church architecture. Always worth popping into a church just to take a look.

After completing a lap of the grounds, I hopped back on the underground and headed for the city centre, aiming for the cathedral first. One thing for certain, there are a lot of churches here. Seems every other building is a church....

IMG_20231004_143029122_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231004_151451408_HDR.jpg
Cathedral towers

IMG_20231004_152134838.jpg
View from tower over Oktoberfest
IMG_20231004_152843488_HDR.jpgIMG_20231004_153155965_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231004_154010280.jpg
German Alps on horizon.

IMG_20231004_155124764.jpg
Inside the main body of the cathedral. Roof had some great details that don't come out in photo. I managed to time it perfectly to enjoy a free 30 minute performance on the cathedral organ. Not sure if I can upload videos direct to here so check my FB for a brief clip of that.

After the organ concert, I just wandered wherever my feet took me, with a vague aiming of getting a close up of some of the nearby nicer buildings i spied from the cathedral tower.
IMG_20231004_164610445_HDR.jpg
Another church nearby

IMG_20231004_165020421_HDR.jpg
Karlsplatz
IMG_20231004_165208974_HDR.jpg
Karlsplatz gate

IMG_20231004_170222177_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231004_170222177_HDR.jpg
Neue rathaus. Instead of traditional bells, this has a glockenspiel that chimes at certain times of day and has some animated figures in the clock tower. Again, check my FB for a brief video. (will ensure they're public after this post)

IMG_20231004_171713005_HDR.jpg
Alte rathaus

IMG_20231004_171930126_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231004_171935029.jpg
Another church nearby. Very impressive ceiling on this one

IMG_20231004_173526807_HDR.jpg
Isartor

IMG_20231004_174345769_HDR.jpg
Isar river. Quite shallow at this point with surprisingly clean water. Could actually see the bottom.

IMG_20231004_175051812_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231004_175441787_HDR.jpg
Main building of the Deutsches museum. Was closed for the evening by this point. Like how the tower has a barometer and temperature gauge on it.

And that's the photo limit reached and about it for the day anyway. Another of those days I wish I had a proper step tracker, would love to know how far I walked today.

Back to the coasters tomorrow. Need an early night now as my train leaves at 07:35 tomorrow morning, thankfully the HBF is only a 5min walk from hotel....
 
Olympia, Hollenblitz and Alpina, that's all the legends rolled into one and the kind of travelling lineup I can get behind.
I still need the latter, closest opportunity I had was being in Germany and needing to write a letter to the King of Luxembourg to let me in during covid. I didn't.
 
Day 3 - Legoland Deutschland

Apologies for any formatting issues. Writing this on train back into Munich. Also, this is only my 2nd Legoland so there will be a lot of comparisons to Windsor.

Made my early train for Günzburg on time. Train left on time but got delayed on route, leading to a 20min late arrival. Still made it onto the next shuttle bus and made it to Legoland on time.

Prior to this trip, I was aware that UK Merlin passed get discount on international parks, but couldn't find any way to book the discounted tickets online. Should have been simple enough to buy on the day, I thought....

Ticket windows were open, I got through the queue and showed my uk Merlin pass for the discount. Staff has no idea that the discount existed (including management) but after showing the Merlin pass discounts page, I eventually got my ticket, and entered the park only to go straight back to ticket office to collect my pass I'd left behind in the confusion.... As part of all this, management has no issue giving the discount but asked me to email them the website link to moan at UK Merlin for not telling them.....

Now finally in the park and have everything with me, I aimed for drachenjagd to get it out the way, via miniland
IMG_20231005_101829535_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231005_101918375_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231005_102218016_HDR.jpg

However, staggered opening meant this, feuerdrachen and große rennen were shut, I instead went straight for the new mythica area before it got too busy.
IMG_20231005_102920555_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231005_102849817_HDR.jpg

Maximus was on 2 trains all day, allowing for short, fast queues. While it still feels rather out of place and too large for a Legoland, it really was rather good. It's not breaking any records soon, but it is simple, pure good fun. Only downside is it has the same bounciness that plagues Mandrill Mayhem. Not good for a brand new ride.

After 2 quick rides, drachenjagd had opened up so headed over to find a 30min queue. Longer than id have liked but needs must in this hobby.
IMG_20231005_112354038_HDR.jpg
Ride itself is very similar to Troublesome trucks and fits very well as the smallest coaster here.

Both Feuerdrachen and große rennen had opened by now, chose feuerdrachen purely on proximity. For whatever reason, this was running only one train so was the slowest, longest queue of the day at around 45mins.
IMG_20231005_102203827_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231005_125125425_HDR.jpg
Indoor section and queueline is a copy paste of Legoland Windsor's, with added disco lighting as a Halloween overlay. Ride itself was fun and quicker than expected. Miles better than Legoland Windsor.

Große rennen was advertised as a 40min queue but turned out to only be 10mins or so. While better than your average Maurer mouse, this still wasn't much to write home about.
IMG_20231005_132645070_HDR.jpg

IMG_20231005_132217103_HDR.jpg
Cool theming on the cars though

With all coasters done, I slowed my pace down a bit to explore the park and ride some smaller rides.
IMG_20231005_132701208_HDR.jpg
Would have ridden this but only 1 side was running on a very short cycle and no effects working.

IMG_20231005_132722383_HDR.jpg
4d cinema. Could have waited 10mins for next showing but decided not to. Cool there's a choice of 3 films at different times though.

IMG_20231005_134701202.jpg
Model of Sealife aquarium shark tank. Popped into the aquarium thinking it was a submarine ride like at Windsor, turns out it was just the walk through. Usual aquarium fare inside, shallow lighting meant no good photos.

IMG_20231005_134927709_HDR.jpg
Ninjago was practically walk on. Fun but very tiring and definitely not worth the massive queues Windsor's gets.

IMG_20231005_140434303_HDR.jpg
Not quite a chance unicoaster but very similar. Powered by buttons on the restraint, it flips surprisingly slow, and will hold you upside down if you ask it to.

IMG_20231005_142250760_HDR.jpg
Splash battle. Not hugely wet but still can't escape the onlookers at the water cannons...

IMG_20231005_142424299_HDR.jpgLog flume. Was working in the morning but broke by the time I made my way to it. Noticed a boat stuck on the lift and it didn't reopen.

IMG_20231005_142558183_HDR.jpg
Ever wondered where RCT2 got the observation tower design from? Good view from the top though, especially over Mythica.
IMG_20231005_143729785_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231005_143801025_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231005_143822924_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231005_143839080_HDR.jpg

At the base of the tower, was a short police themed mirror maze that was walk on, including a bit dodging lasers. Fun, but wouldn't queue for it.

IMG_20231005_150951486.jpg
Indoor robocoasters were fun. 5 possible settings from gentle (1) to extreme (5). On observation, wondered why no one was choosing 5..... I sat down, chose 5 and was promptly flipped upside for the next few minutes... spinning around at speed all while upside isn't as fun as it looks... Next time, just stick with the more comfortable looking 4 I think...

IMG_20231005_153237233_HDR.jpg
Great skyfly. Didn't ride as was prioritising other things. These are great fun but they've popped up everywhere recently. No point queuing for it here, when it could be walk on at Blackpool.

IMG_20231005_154616572_HDR.jpg
Train! Short, circular route surrounding miniland and the Lego city area.

IMG_20231005_155318708_HDR.jpg
Unlike Windsor, this Boating school allows single riders. While simple, I have a fondness for these from nostalgia of childhood visits to Windsor. For that reason only, always worth a ride.

IMG_20231005_155425565_HDR.jpg
Driving school. Way too old and tall for these things now, but used to love them.

With rest of park exhausted, and time running short. I headed back to mythica to lap Maximus till ride close. Was on 2nd to last train of the night but as I left l, they switched on the full lighting in the station, allowing for clearer photos of the train.
IMG_20231005_171333412_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231005_171337994_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231005_171359712_HDR.jpg

Side note: I've now ridden both new for 23 European b&m wings in just over a month apart....

Overall, a much nicer park with less overcrowding issues than Windsor. Would happily visit again but may wait until another major addition first.
 
Day 4 - Skyline park

On paper, this park isn't up to much with a load of low capacity ex-travelling rides. However, it was much nicer than I expected. Got lucky with crowds as today was dead and completed the vast majority of the park in under 2 hours.

Quick note for anyone visiting on public transport: trains to rammingen are easy enough and walk to park is simple. However there is no official storage point for large luggage here, only small lockers. However, ask nicely at the info desk to the right of the entrance and they'll store it for you free of charge.
IMG_20231006_093906913_HDR.jpg

Entered the park before ride opening, aiming for Sky Dragster first to get it out the way. However, I got distracted by Formel 1. Best described as dodgem cars on a go kart style track. Designed for kids but large enough for adults. Nothing particularly exciting but certainly different.
IMG_20231006_095231095_HDR.jpg

On the walk to Dragster, I realised how large and green this park is. Much different and better than I expected.
IMG_20231006_095332954_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231006_095335932_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231006_095557389_HDR.jpg
Observation wheel

On arrival at Dragster, it has just ticked past 10am and I hopped onto the first car of the day. After a brief issue with the software not allowing dispatch, I was off. Certainly unusual this thing, but not necessarily good. It's quick on the straights but loses all speed on hills, even with boost mode. Some very sudden banking in the corners as well. Fun but wouldn't rush to ride again.
IMG_20231006_100826878_HDR.jpg

Walked past an empty Allgauflieger (skyflyer) so took a quick solo ride. Nice view and long cycle but was very windy at the top, came off very windswept.
IMG_20231006_101608648_HDR.jpg
Noticed later in the day, this has a working clock on the tower cap. Saved me checking my phone for the time at least.

Realised very quickly queues wouldn't be an issue today so just wandered the park rather than prioritising the coasters. Would have done the log flume now but it hadn't opened yet. Instead, headed over to Sky Circle.
IMG_20231006_101906915_HDR.jpg
The older design of this booster meant it felt a bit sketchy with restraints that locked in a fixed position rather than as tight as possible. Was running a fantastic cycle though, made even better with an unbalanced car. Long legs meant for a great footchopper with the structure

IMG_20231006_103218031_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231006_102737982_HDR.jpg
Would have usually skipped the fun house but walked straight in to this one. Usual fun house fare, with moving floors, trommel tunnel and "mirror" maze in the centre. Given the size of the building, this was surprisingly long with activities packed in at every point.

IMG_20231006_103307456_HDR.jpg
At first, I thought these would be the standard, small travelling rapids until I noticed the elevator lift. Still not much to write home about and escaped dry. There is one corner where they've had to trim the boats, as they get scarily close to the edge of the trough even with the carpet trim.

IMG_20231006_103940852_HDR.jpg
One and done, even if it is the larger 3 loop model.
IMG_20231006_105724524_HDR.jpg
Sky wheel was unsurprisingly a Maurer Sky Wheel. Got 2 laps on this one. Still fun, if a little rough in the valley.

IMG_20231006_105839790.jpg
Sky twister is your typical Huss condor. Good fun, but not too different to the taller skyflyer across the park.

IMG_20231006_111043201_HDR.jpg
Travelling ghost trains are never brilliant but always worth a go. Geisterbahn was no exception but long and better sets than usual.
IMG_20231006_111135640_HDR.jpg
Think it's @HeartlineCoaster that keeps note of dogs in ticket booths. Have a skeleton!

IMG_20231006_111938309_HDR.jpg
Sky rider was fun and the first large scale Caripro I've done. Annoyingly , there's a no single riders rule here so had to wait for a group of 3 or less that I could join. Amazingly in the dead park, one showed up as I was leaving the queueline so jumped in with them.

IMG_20231006_112603228_HDR.jpg
Solo ride on the new for 2023 Flotter Otto, an extended version of the common twin spiral design. One and done still.

With all new to me coasters done by 11:30, I started considering leaving the park early to get an earlier train and get to Stuttgart at a more sensible time. While considering my options, I walked over to the Slingshot. No photos, but also no single riders allowed. Standard for these things to be fair, no odd numbered groups in sight so went off to Sky Spin.

Have ridden this when it was at Camelot and it again had a no single riders rule. Thankfully, I didn't have to wait long for a 2 to appear and I could ride. This has not been looked after since Camelot! I remember it being fairly smooth with good spin. While not exactly rough, it's not smooth will just throw you into the corners with much spinning happening.

IMG_20231006_100008815_HDR.jpg
World's worst splash battle? No theming, nothing/no one to shoot at, really slow boats, need I say more?

Having made the decision to leave early when the rides close for lunch, I got 2 quick rides in on the log flume. Fairly sure I took some photos of it but can't find them. Either way, it is very large and tall for a flume, travelling or not. Even comes with surprise theming in the indoor sections.

Wanted a re-ride on dragster but it was on 1 car ops, meaning 2 people every 5 mins or so. What should have been a station wait of couple mins could easily have been 30+ mins The only thing in the park with any sort of queue so didn't bother, glad I got that early walk on ride in.

IMG_20231006_130746075.jpg
Drop tower. More of a bouncy tower than a shot/drop tower, which I suppose makes better use of the short height. Unsure if seats were meant to tilt forward or not. Car felt like it was trying to tilt, but failing.
IMG_20231006_130804457_HDR.jpg
Theming nearby. This whole central area of the park had a very railway theme to it, with some themed path bridges. There is remains of an old car ride nearby, but unsure if there was a railway as well.

IMG_20231006_135346800_HDR.jpg
They have a land train here to help people round the park, but its timetable never lined up with my route around the park. Pictured here as it's driver started his lunch break.

After re rides on booster, rapids, sky wheel and geisterbahn, I grabbed my suitcase from the entrance and left the park, just as everything shut down for lunch.

IMG_20231006_140522532_HDR.jpg
Path between park and station. Hard to think there's a large theme park behind and autobahn behind me, in this otherwise very rural location.

IMG_20231006_092458732_HDR.jpg
Park as seen from station. That road sign is pointing in correct direction, out of car park and into path. No access from carpark to more direct road behind the trees.


Overall, can imagine this place being a pain in the height of summer with all the low capacity attractions, but today it was good fun. Will happily visit again, maybe when they build the 2 new coasters they have planned. Was happy to stay till the end but glad I didn't. DB have had a bad evening of delays in this area, and I probably wouldn't be at the hotel yet had I stayed till close. (Currently 4.5hrs after close, and wouldn't have had a chance to eat)

Edit: should quickly mention the next 2 days are going to be very busy with early starts and late finishes. May not get a chance to write these but will try my best to stay up to date.
 
Last edited:
Day 5 - Schwaben park and Cannstatter Volksfest

This is the day where on paper, I wish I had a car for this trip with tight connections and an irregular bus to Schwaben park. However it all worked out well.

Schwaben park fits the bill as a small regional park perfectly with many smaller attractions for the younger children and a couple larger ones. It's also home to 2 rather unique coasters I've been wanting to try for years.

Met up with the ECC group outside the entrance and made our way in. Was supposed to have an ert on force 1, but that was cancelled due to a smaller group size than expected. Did get lunch paid for though.
IMG_20231007_092953408_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231007_092955947_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231007_092702644_HDR.jpg

First ride was Hummel Brummell. Much longer and faster than expected. Very open feeling to the cars, and love the ability to choose your own speed. I was flat out all the way!

IMG_20231007_131439595_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231007_131449389_HDR.jpg
Separate offload station, seen from onload station through the maintenance bay.

Next door was Wilde Hilde, the real life RCT3 Dizzy Dropper. Been wanting to try this since it was built, despite hearing mixed reports about these things. Unfortunately the reports were true with it being very slow without really doing much. Very slow lift and slow dispatch makes for a very slow queue. Glad the park was dead today and we got on it early.
IMG_20231007_102222833_HDR.jpg

Force 1 was walk on all day so got plenty of rerides in. Largest and best coaster here by some margin. Picks up some speed as well.
IMG_20231007_132844140_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231007_102720452_HDR.jpg
(Note the empty airgates and queue as we disembarked here. That's how quiet the park was first thing)

With all 3 major coasters done in just over 30mins, it was decided to ride things as they came, over prioritising the coasters.

IMG_20231007_103502850_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231007_103740188.jpg
Like many smaller rides here, this was self operated. Just pull the string when ready.

IMG_20231007_105454058.jpg
IMG_20231007_105759212_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231007_111532003_HDR.jpg
Yes, I was the crazy Brit who rode the log flume on a cold October day. Only one of the group to do so.

IMG_20231007_111540554_HDR.jpg
Raupen express was the smallest coaster here but still fun. Surprisingly quick for such a small ride.

No photos of the bobkart but was very fun. Very fast on full throttle, almost getting airtime on the back straight. A couple other smaller rides followed, including a pirate ship, observation wheel and another slide.

IMG_20231007_105804256_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231007_125853792_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231007_133553160_HDR.jpg

Went into one building expecting a dark ride if some sort, perhaps a ghost train. Turned out to be a brilliant indoor fountain show, with fantastic effects including somehow lighting a fountain on fire!
IMG_20231007_115239930.jpg
IMG_20231007_115305331.jpg

With all rides done, a few re rides were done on the major coasters, before leaving for Cannstatter volksfest.

On arrival, it was clear it was somehow busier than Oktoberfest and could hardly move on the pathways. Most interesting flat rides would have had a queue of an hour plus, often spilling out the queuelines and blocking the paths further. Met up with the group outside Euro coaster, the only coaster here I've ridden previously. Knowing what it's like in London, had no desire to re ride.
IMG_20231007_182326719_HDR.jpg

Due to the small group size, I was the only one wanting to ride all the coasters. Quite often, I was the only one riding. Thankfully, stereotypical German efficiency was at play again so coaster queues didn't take long. Also, minimal battery meant very few photos taken.

Wild mouse was running well, and much faster than any British equivalent.

Racing coaster was one and done, but again was running quickly.

Rock and roller coaster was a large Wildcat. Very popular so had the longest queue of the night. All cars were in use , so it quite often duelled with itself.

Feuer und Eis is a travelling mack powered coaster, with same layout as flying fish. However, this ran much quicker and with more laps than I've ever known Fish to do. Fish can be boring and I often skip it, but this was a genuinely good ride, and my favourite of the night.

Spuk is a ghost train with coaster track, more coastery sections than your average ghost train and built by a coaster manufacturer. While it is predominantly a ghost train, I'm still counting it...

With all coasters done and it being too busy to enjoy anything else, it was mutually decided to call it a night early and left. Would happily visit again as it almost half the price of Oktoberfest, with the same quality of rides.

IMG_20231007_204901971_HDR.jpg
Nabbed this photo from the train, just as my phone died for the evening.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_20231007_125853792_HDR.jpg
    IMG_20231007_125853792_HDR.jpg
    149.8 KB · Views: 1
  • IMG_20231007_105454058.jpg
    IMG_20231007_105454058.jpg
    131.7 KB · Views: 1
Day 6 - Tripsdrill

Met up with the ECC again today. Larger group than at Schwaben park. Day started at volldampf to tick it off before it got busy. Loving the train theming on this, especially the puff of steam fron the front car as train dispatches. Ride itself is very fun, very typical family boomerang.

IMG_20231008_090919564_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231008_091520110_HDR.jpg

Hals Uber kopf was next for my first proper new gen vekoma. Ride was fantastic and very smooth. Love the interaction between volldampf and hals Uber kopf, can't wait for emerald parks clones of these 2 to open. Been meaning to go since cu chulainn opened but these will definitely help.

IMG_20231008_111219277_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231008_095742032_HDR.jpg
Drop towers. Know these have good reviews so did intend on riding. However, between sticking with the group the majority of the day and me completely forgetting, they went on unridden.

A main highlight of the day was that the ECC were able to organise a backstage tour of volldampf and hals Uber kopf, which started promptly at 10:30. First, we were taken underneath a few of their midway attractions, then over to hals Uber kopf and volldampf:

IMG_20231008_104506860.jpg
Underneath the tea cups

IMG_20231008_104700095_HDR.jpg
Maintenance corridor

IMG_20231008_104912679_HDR.jpg
Underneath the children's spinning parachute drop tower. Video of this in action on my FB.

IMG_20231008_111231386_HDR.jpg
Walking to hals Uber kopf's maintenance bay. Great view of volldampf's spike from here.

IMG_20231008_111243623.jpg
IMG_20231008_111259244_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231008_111744361.jpg
IMG_20231008_111308164_HDR.jpgMaintenance bay. Would have been a train in here for the tour but ride needed both trains in operation.

IMG_20231008_111933722.jpg
Clearance envelope for volldampf. I checked, my 194cm tall self can fully stretch out and be safe, still would rather not though.

IMG_20231008_112001768.jpg
Clearance envelope for hals Uber kopf

IMG_20231008_112228664_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231008_112225594_HDR.jpg
Track between maintenance bay and switch track.

IMG_20231008_112304913_HDR.jpg
Here's a never in UK thing. Ride still in public operation while we were wandering around the ride area!

IMG_20231008_113931301.jpg
Hals Uber kopf control panel.

IMG_20231008_114414468.jpg
Now under volldampfs station, here's the air compressors for brakes, air gates etc.

IMG_20231008_114427428.jpg
IMG_20231008_114419574.jpg
IMG_20231008_114647681.jpg

With the backstage tour complete, a guided tour by the parks marketing manager followed. Unfortunately, tour was all in German so didn't understand much of it. Did end with being able to skip the Karacho queue and get a free on ride photo though. :)

IMG_20231008_164801896_HDR.jpg
Karacho really surprised me. Very smooth (for a Gerst) with punchy launch and great layout. Properly good fun.

IMG_20231008_140644754_HDR.jpg
Mammut was also a pleasant surprise. A wooden coaster with Gerst trains isn't a recipe for a smooth coaster. While not butter smooth, it wasn't as bad as I expected. Little more than usual wooden shakiness. Great lengthy layout with great speed, especially the dive beneath the path.

IMG_20231008_145437478_HDR.jpg
Having ridden Cobra at Paultons just over a month before, I knew what to expect from Gsengte Sau. Very fun without being too forceful. More airtime on the bunny hills than Cobra, and miles better theming.

IMG_20231008_155606133_HDR.jpg
Rasende tausendfußler is a standard large Tivoli. Nice setting with the trees and fountain, 2 laps always a bonus.

At this point, the group dispersed so said my goodbyes and heading round to the water rides, starting with Jungbrunnen.
IMG_20231008_160337089_HDR.jpg
Do love a good log flume, and this was no exception. Long, well themed and with a surprise backwards drop.


IMG_20231008_163224841_HDR.jpg
Rapids were good fun as always, even if the whirlpool on this one didn't really do much. Waterfalls were curved as well, ensuring no one escaped the spray.

There is also a mini flume here but no lone adults allowed on. Went to the Vinarium instead, a small wine making museum where you can claim a free shot glass, with a bar to use your glass at.

IMG_20231008_165934960_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231008_170615863_HDR.jpg

Did a couple other smaller rides and re rides on Karacho before leaving. Love this park and will happily re visit if/when back in the area. Best park of the trip so far! (Spoilers: this statement doesn't hold true for long)
 
Day 7 - Gutach sommerrodelbahn and Rulantica

Primarily a travel day today, getting from Stuttgart to Europa park but had Rulantica booked for the evening. Train routes would either send me along main lines via Karlsruhe or the slightly longer, scenic route via Gutach. Wasn't initially planning on going to Gutach as it is quite out the way, until the train times lined up perfectly and I could do it on my way to Europa.

(There will be a lot of train photos today, apologies in advance)

IMG_20231009_093902732_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231009_100721052_HDR.jpg
First leg was on this lovely double decker train. Relatively modern with WiFi and at seat phone chargers. Despite using ICE stock, it was operated as a standard regional train, so my non express ticket was valid!

IMG_20231009_100726626_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231009_104956579_HDR.jpg
Quickly followed up by a short run on this much older train. Strange to think there were 2 Germanies when this was built in 1971!

IMG_20231009_100815702_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231009_100819372_HDR.jpg
Inside. Can see the loco from my seat!

IMG_20231009_103452643_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231009_104131513_HDR.jpg
Some of the scenery seen from the train, as we pass through the Schwarzwald foothills.

IMG_20231009_105928460_HDR.jpg
Back to the standard trains for the rest of the day.

IMG_20231009_121643753_HDR.jpg
Arrived at Gutach. Love the scenery, but also love the unfenced railways here, only common sense stopping me walking along the tracks.

IMG_20231009_122332934_HDR.jpg
The coaster itself, hiding on the hillside.
IMG_20231009_123550630_HDR.jpg
Quick selfie on the lifthill. Ride is very good fun, very typical alpine coaster. Love how open the cars are on these, makes it feel a lot faster.

IMG_20231009_233524374.jpg
Official on ride photo. Certainly a look of windswept concentration here. Had 2 runs down, 1st intended to be more of a sighting run with some trimming, 2nd ride going full throttle all the way. However must have got a dodgy car on 2nd go as was much slower. This photo is from first run.

As coaster was quieter than expected, decided to take an earlier train than planned. Glad I did as 2 track closures further along the line was causing chaos and delaying trains left right and centre. Even a section of track I'd just ridden in on was now shut... by getting the earlier train, I avoided the worst of it. :)

Got to Rust on time and dropped bags at hotel before walking to rulantica to spend the evening.

IMG_20231012_184732869_HDR.jpg
Entrance sign, taken quickly from bus into Rust.

IMG_20231009_171146542_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231009_171200180.jpg

Upon stepping in, I was completely blown away. Fantastic theming everywhere, wave pool turned up to 11 and a lazy river that's more a dark ride than a slide. Like everywhere on this trip, the place was quiet without massive queues for the slides. Longest queue was the indoor bowl slide, but even that was walk on at times. The svalgurok section of the outside area was open till dusk but the twist and splash and outdoor swim up bar were down for maintenance.

Drop slides were great fun, as were all the tube slides. Unfortunately the 2 largest don't allow single riders so couldn't ride. Favorite has to be the outdoor boat less rapids, never done anything like it before and was incredible. It also stayed open till park close at 10, despite being outdoors. Made for some great views of the park at night.

Only disappointment was Snorri Snorkelling. Couldnt get the mask to fit properly so water kept leaking in, blurring the screen. A waste of €6.

For obvious reasons, couldn't take my phone into the park so no photos. Also forgot to leave phone on charge while in the park, so no night photos either.

New favorite water park by far, can't wait to return one day.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_20231009_104131513_HDR.jpg
    IMG_20231009_104131513_HDR.jpg
    69 KB · Views: 2
Last edited:
Day 8 - Europa Park Day 1

Had booked 2 days here to minimize cred anxiety in case it was busy. First visit here so didn't know what to expect, and needed all coasters.

IMG_20231010_090200131_HDR.jpg
Like rulantica, I was blown away just on walking in. Very detailed theming everywhere.

IMG_20231010_090359033_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231010_092027742_HDR.jpg

Without much idea of the layout of the park, i stumbled upon Eurosat first. Was intending to tick off the low capacity rides first, but this had a single rider queue. Was on within a couple trains. One of the best indoor coasters I've done, and makes the best use of all the space available.

Schweizer Bobbahn was next. Enjoy Avalanche so was expecting to enjoy this. However, it is running very rough without doing much with it. Still fun, but not what I expected.

Matterhorn blitz was next door and great fun. Great custom layout which felt longer than most mice, love the elevator lift as well. If phones were allowed on ride, the exit of the lift gives a fantastic view over Voltron.

While not dead, the park was still quiet so no need to rush. Max 30 min queues across the board. Rather than prioritising the low capacity rides, I decided just to continue round the park in the anticlockwise direction I'd arbitrarily chosen. Aiming for Pegasus, I found a back way to Silver Star.

IMG_20231010_101128436_HDR.jpg
Was still early so ride mustn't have warmed up properly yet. Was fun but slower than expected with little airtime. Definitely required a second opinion later on.

Pegasus was very standard for a family coaster. Nice change from the Vekoma Rollerskaters but not much in it.

Poseidon was great fun. Very rattly in the coaster sections but wetter than expected.
IMG_20231010_095611425_HDR.jpg

Euromir exists I guess. Good fun but roughest thing here by far. Was expecting more, Would also be improved if was free spinning on the coaster section, ended up backwards on both rides taken today.

IMG_20231011_101210219_HDR.jpg

Have ridden Steel Taipan at Dreamworld earlier this year, so mostly knew what to expect from Blue Fire. Without the rear spike, the launch is more powerful but still got nothing on an intamin accelerator launch. Layout is still very fun. This also had a single rider queue. With multiple trains going, the single rider queue hardly stopped and was on in no time.
IMG_20231010_114836102_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231010_115000529_HDR.jpg

Blue fire's station kicks you out almost opposite the entrance to Wodan. Makes it hard for blue fire re rides but easy to jump straight into Wodan's single rider queue. Again, multiple trains meant this queue hardly stopped.

Ride is absolutely outstanding, new favourite GCI by far. Favourite on park as well. Speed is relentless, many small ejector air spots, and no dead spots anywhere in the layout.
IMG_20231010_130450785_HDR.jpg
Quick note to Skyline park: front of shot, this is how you do a splash battle. Indoor section, theming with a storyline, interactive targets that work. Not the unthemed, slow concrete trough you call one.

Atlantica Supersplash was next. Ride is in the name really, it is a pretty super splash. Backwards drop also fun.
IMG_20231010_131630482_HDR.jpg

With the log flume and powered coaster still out of action after it's "thermal incident", continued on to Arthur. Had heard good things about this, and again those expectations were met. Despite having no knowledge of the IP beforehand, ride is still very enjoyable and would have loved a re ride if time allowed. Unfortunately, it is rather out the way in the park and I would have to make a special journey to it. Hence, never actually got round to a re ride.
IMG_20231010_134052224_HDR.jpg

With all but 1 operating coasters done in just over half a day, I took a break for lunch. Timed it well to watch the Austrian fountain show while I ate.
IMG_20231010_140533119_HDR.jpg

Last and definitely least coaster of the day was Baa express. One and done, like the train theming though.
IMG_20231010_145204435_HDR.jpg

With all coasters done, it was time for the smaller non coaster attractions and re rides on the coasters. Started by going up the observation tower. Fantastic view over whole park and surrounding area. Could even see the mountains on the French side of the river.
IMG_20231010_164205862_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231010_164054609_HDR.jpg
One of the parks character mice happened to walk past so nabbed a quick selfie:
IMG_20231010_152457874_HDR.jpg

Had heard good things about Madame Freudenrich curiousities, and love a good mystery dark ride. Theming a ride to a lady keeping Dinosaurs as pets must be unique in the world, and certainly very charming. Loved it.
IMG_20231010_170530522_HDR.jpg

Same goes for Piraten Im Batavia. Have done a few of these before with similar themes, but this just blows them all away. So much theming you see something new on every ride, and love the smell cannons. Interaction with the cafe at the end gives off huge nostalgia for the old River Caves at Blackpool.
IMG_20231011_110653059_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231011_130829428_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231011_131858045_HDR.jpg

Fjord rafting was great fun. Short but again the wave machines were turned up to 11, with all effects switched on. Almost stayed dry except for one large splash hitting my money waterproof trousers....
IMG_20231010_183149863_HDR.jpg


Ended the day with evening rides on blue fire and Wodan. Wodan really warms up through the day, and was absolutely hauling in the evening. Quiet single rider queue makes for plenty of rerides as well. Managed to claim front row on last train of the night as well. :)


IMG_20231010_191514977_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231010_191651795_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231010_192711437.jpg

Park is beautiful at night, makes me want an evening of proper night rides here.

Overall a fantastic day had at one of my new favourite parks. With everything I wanted to do done on the first day, suddenly could relax about day 2.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_20231010_191430254_HDR.jpg
    IMG_20231010_191430254_HDR.jpg
    62.3 KB · Views: 2
Day 9 - Europa park day 2

With all coasters done, there was no pressure on today. Started with re rides on Matterhorn blitz, Pegasus and Poseidon before they got busy later on.

IMG_20231011_090415321_HDR.jpg
Some of the theming within Matterhorn Blitz's station. Really nails the rural farm house/barn feel.

IMG_20231011_092833812_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231011_092902882_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231011_093209215_BURST000_COVER_AI.jpg
Poseidon was so quiet first thing, I was able to get a solo ride. With 2 boats being dispatched at a time, this meant the boat behind me was empty as well. :)

Decided to check out the Beautiful Croatia exhibition next door to Poseidon. Entrance path gave great views of Voltron. Film itself was just a massive advert for Croatia but was novel just laying on bean bags to watch it.
IMG_20231011_095511786_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231011_095535198_HDR.jpg
Really cannot wait for this to open. Already decided I'll be back for it, just don't know when yet.

IMG_20231011_095831138_HDR.jpg
Inside the Traumzeit Dome, screening the Croatia film.

IMG_20231011_101239630_HDR.jpg
Snowflake sleigh ride was next. Short and simple, needs an upgrade to the standards of Piraten and Snorri Touren. Still worth a quick ride when walk on though.

IMG_20231011_111335816_HDR.jpg
The day time scare maze Niflheim was open and walk on. Disappointingly short without much theming within. 3 actors total, including the entrance host. Had high hopes for this given the hype for Traumatica, but left dissatisfied, not worth doing again.

Having heard good things about the shows here, I opted for the Vampire Circus on Ice show in the ice arena. Very good stunts and choreography throughout, love the costumes as well. Well worth 45mins.
IMG_20231011_114416192_HDR.jpg

Later on, happened to walk past the Scary Movie Hits show. Wasn't planning on watching it but hung around. Also very good, surprisingly good singing and again love the costumes.

IMG_20231011_165101745_HDR.jpg
Train!

After letting it warm up, re rode silver star. Running much better today, actually got some airtime and seemed smoother. Still reckon Wodan is the best here but this is a solid contender for 2nd. Shambhala is still better though.

Despite the disappointment with Snorri Snorkeling, I tried Eurosat coastiality to see if it was any better. It most definitely was. :) This is how VR is supposed to work, with the free movement and being able to "see" your fellow riders. Graphics could still use some work as my video was a bit laggy. Great fun, worth the upcharge.

Also stumbled upon the old Eurosat train sat nearby:
IMG_20231011_161548715.jpg

Closed the day out with re rides on Atlantica Supersplash and Wodan. Wodan was still absolutely hauling, and definitely my favourite GCI.

Overall, absolutely love this place and already wanting to make plans to return. Will definitely be back for Voltron but not sure when yet. My schedule for next year is pretty full as it is....
 
Day 10 - Todtnau and Steinwasen park

Final park day of the trip today. Had heard very good things about the alpine coaster at Todtnau and found it was surprisingly easily accessible by public transport. Left Rust early in order to get to Todtnau for opening.

Train journey was average but the bus journey from Kirchzarten to Todtnau was incredible. Went through various mountain valleys and right over the top of a couple, through some lovely alpine style towns. Knew the scenery at Todtnau would be good, but didn't expect anything from the bus route in.
IMG_20231012_091739452_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_092416392_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_094234395_HDR.jpg

Had a short walk from Todtnau bus station to the coaster. Town itself was lovely, compact with another lovely church.
IMG_20231012_095706335_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_120316421_HDR.jpg

Got to the coaster and again paid for 2 runs. Opted for the combination ticket for the chairlift to avoid the walk up the mountain. Chairlift gave some great views of the coaster:
IMG_20231012_100635717_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_101628130_HDR.jpg

Once at the top, I was greeted with a fantastic view over Todtnau and surrounding valleys. By design, alpine coasters need a big hill to operate on. Should have expected a 3km long one to be on a mountain, but somehow didn't expect just how high up the top is.
IMG_20231012_102044746_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_102001015_HDR.jpg
Just look at how small that church is now!

First ride down was walk on and great fun. Went full throttle all the way, despite (supposedly retrofitted) auto brakes trimming the speed at times. Still some fantastic speed to be had with ejector air on the triple down about halfway through the course. Almost made it all the way down with braking myself but came up behind a slower cart on the final few corners, and auto brakes hit hard. Still great fun though, just forget how harshly theses things brake when they want to.

Jumped straight back on the chairlift for my 2nd go. Since it again was quieter than I expected, I stretched out my time atop the mountain and took a quick tea break. Cant get a much better location for a German pretzel and below average tea...
IMG_20231012_104841796_HDR.jpg

Still had plenty of time before my bus to steinwasen so went for a quick walk through the woods here, intending to find a viewpoint on the opposite side of the mountain but got nothing. Would have gone straight up to the Hasenhorn Tower viewpoint on the summit but believe that's extra charge. Still some lovely woodland here though.
IMG_20231012_113303350.jpg

2nd run down the mountain wasn't much different to the first. Made all the way down without brakes though. Got the onride photo from this run as well.
CH1YMAX23UV.jpg

Back on bus to steinwasen, nabbed the front seat so got an even better view of the scenery. Fair play to the bus drivers in this area. These roads would be a challenge in my car, let alone a large bus full of tourists.
IMG_20231012_123854681_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_124003875_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_125959742_HDR.jpg

Steinwasen is a very small park nestled in a narrow valley, built around its alpine coaster and bobsled runs. All facilities are all located in the various facilities of the entrance building.
IMG_20231012_130838780_HDR.jpg

Alpine coaster is very typical of the type. Very fun but not a patch on the one just down the road. This one had a lifthill though so less chairlift faff required.

Bobsled run did require the chairlift. Again, very typical of the type. Virtually followed the same layout as the alpine, without the helices. Surprisingly for an off peak day, both tracks were open. Not sure why these aren't counted by Coaster count but did both tracks in case they are one day.
IMG_20231012_133334511_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_153549376_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_153613390_HDR.jpg

Rapids here are very basic but fun. No splash at all but bonus points for elevator lift and the location.
IMG_20231012_133330849_HDR.jpg

The other 2 coasters here are both located in the basement of the central building. Rode the bobkart first, Space runner. Perhaps the slowest one of these that I've done but good fun. Unique to me being completely indoors with some great interaction with the gletscherblitz, the mack powered coaster.
IMG_20231012_134912738_HDR.jpg

Gletscherblitz was good fun. Good to see a custom layout and was decently themed, given the limited budget this park must have had. Didn't try the vr here, but it was an upcharge option.
IMG_20231012_135021450_HDR.jpg

On ride I spied there was an indoor viewing area of both indoor rides. Went in search of it and found its entrance hidden on the main floor of the building, labelled as Eiswelt (ice world).
IMG_20231012_164552725_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_164702998_HDR.jpg
(Did try taking photos of trains passing but all came out blurry with phone camera).

With all planned coasters on this trip ridden, I considered a quick trip over to the nearby Tatzmania Loffingen. However, with time running out in the day and a 30min walk from train station to Tatzmania, I'd have been left with less than an hour of operation at Tatzmania, without any delays. Could have easily got an earlier bus to steinwasen and have made it to Tatzmania but wanted to enjoy Hasenhorn for longer.

With that, Opted to stay at Steinwasen and closed out the day with exploring the small zoo and re rides on the alpine coaster and gletscherblitz.
IMG_20231012_154124073_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_153928695_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_154203208_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_154440408_HDR.jpg

There was also a suspension bridge across the valley here, gave great views of the park and down the valley. Again, there was a larger version of this just outside Todtnau but didn't have time for it.
IMG_20231012_154423596_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231012_154526448.jpg

Overall, was pleasantly surprised with steinwasen. Reminded me in many ways of Plopsa Coo, also a Small park in middle of a mountain valley with chairlift and duelling bobsled runs. Glad I made time for it.

This may be the last park day, but the trip doesn't end here. May be a delay in getting the final installments out though as have since returned home and back in near full time work.
 
Day 11 - Basel

Had flight home booked out of Basel airport in the evening, so planned to just explore Basel for the day. Train in from Rust was smooth, no issues crossing the Swiss border. On arrival, left my luggage in a locker and hopped on a tram to Dreilandereck.

IMG_20231013_121742499_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231013_123003359_HDR.jpg
Basel SBB station

IMG_20231013_123442124_HDR.jpg
Very long trams here.

Dreilandereck is a monument placed near the point the Swiss, French and German borders meet. (Actual Tri point in middle of river). First experience for me being able to see 3 countries at once. Good views to be had across the river to France and Germany, less so back into Switzerland due to the large industrial area surrounding the Dreilandereck.

IMG_20231013_132334389_HDR.jpg
The monument itself

IMG_20231013_132001945.jpg
France

IMG_20231013_132433989_HDR.jpg
Germany.

Back in the city centre, had a quick lunch at the market outside city hall, then went wandering with a vague aim of heading towards the cathedral.

IMG_20231013_140658390_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231013_140653585_HDR.jpg
City hall

IMG_20231013_142016393_HDR.jpg
A rather upper class shopping street, with major roadworks right down the length of it. Doesn't detract from the lovely architecture in this part of town though.

IMG_20231013_142139796_HDR.jpg
Old post office

IMG_20231013_143158624_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231013_142909352_HDR.jpg
Approaching the cathedral

Cathedral was lovely, if a bit smaller than expected. Oddly, they don't allow single visitors up the tower. Didn't enquire as to why, perhaps limited space in tower and/or suicide risk?
IMG_20231013_143202108_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231013_143508773_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231013_144059123_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231013_143655323.jpg
Crypt roof was painted, much nicer than leaving them plain as usually happens.

IMG_20231013_144529390_HDR.jpg
Loving the multi coloured roof here.

IMG_20231013_144704778_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231013_144803132_HDR.jpg
Nice view down the Rhine from outside the cathedral.

IMG_20231013_145047146_HDR.jpg
Accidentally crashed some wedding photos in the cloisters.

IMG_20231013_150603384_HDR.jpg
Courtyard outside the cathedral.

Continued wandering for a while and found the Basel historical museum in Barfusserplatz. Very interesting museum with some great displays, located in an old church. Worth a visit if in the area.

IMG_20231013_151036030_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231013_155627623_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231013_151110699_HDR.jpg
Barfusserplatz itself. As I left the museum, there was a small Free Palestine protest here that caught the attention of local TV. Also brought a large police presence as well, was happy just watching it unfold.

IMG_20231013_172509725.jpg
One of Basel's many fountains.

Despite having plenty of time until my flight, I was running out of time on my luggage locker so made my way back to Basel SBB. Collected my luggage and hopped on airport bus.

IMG_20231013_183123091_HDR.jpg
On paper, Basel airport is a complicated mess. It's geographically located in France but administered by both France and Switzerland, with separate check in areas, depending on which country your flight operated from and no direct access between them (i.e. all easyJet flights have to check in in Swiss sector, no access from France). Thankfully, my flight left from the Swiss sector, which also had the better public transport links. Made the theoretically complicated mess very simple to navigate. Short bag drop queue and no queue at security also helps, all meaning I was at my gate much earlier than I needed to be.

All was going well, until an hour before my flight was supposed to leave. Flight got cancelled, we were all ushered out the airport as no more flights that evening. No easyJet staff at airport, all rebooking to be done on the app. Thankfully, being young and tech literate, this was simple enough to do. Unfortunately, no direct flights to Manchester airport for 3 days, no indirect flights for 2 days....

Without much other option, grabbed a seat in the indirect Sunday morning flights (via Alicante) and also grabbed a hotel for the first night. Cue confusion at hotel check in caused by easyJet cancelling 7 flights that evening and sending everyone to the same hotel without warning the hotel about the sudden influx. To be fair, the hotel processed everyone asap and we all got our rooms with dinner and breakfast included. Staff also gave out free water bottles to those in the queue. Could only get the first night confirmed at this point, told to ask in the morning about the 2nd night id require.

Room was lovely and by far the nicest hotel of the trip. Came with these colour changing lights around the bed!
IMG_20231014_195226488_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231014_195237101_HDR.jpg
IMG_20231014_195655449.jpg
Guess this option is for "hosting" guests picked up at the hotel bar...
IMG_20231014_195739155_HDR.jpg
This was supposed to be green, not sure why it came out like this on camera.

At £140 a night, I'm glad easyJet were picking up the bill here! After the confusion, I needed the rest and crashed out for the evening at this point. Had a surprise extra day to fill in the morning....
 
Day 12 - Basel Zoo

With an unexpected free day to use, I did consider going back into Germany for Tatzmania Loffingen and a small fair in Freiburg . However, my new flights were at 6am the next day and needed to be back at the hotel early. Also still had to confirm where I'd be staying that night so no point adding the extra stress of a cred run. Instead, had a good breakfast and consulted reception about the second night. No issues in getting easyJet to pay for the 2nd night and was even able to stay in the same room!

With hotel sorted, I headed out to Basel zoo to spend the day. Didn't know anything about the zoo beforehand, so was very pleasantly surprised by the zoo. Despite the city centre location, it was very green and quiet with only the occasional tram and train passing to remind you of the location. While not huge, all the enclosures were of a decent size, and the majority of avaries were walk through allowing very close contact with the birds. Half the zoo is indoor with indoor and outdoor viewing areas for most animals. Useful today as the weather gods must have known I was supposed to be home, was the only rainy day of the whole trip.

Would definitely re visit if in the area with enough time to spare. Still got nothing on Chester zoo or Wildlands Emmen for my favourite zoo though. Half day attraction at best but stretched it out to fill most of the day, including watching sea lion show.

Have a picture dump of the more interesting animals:

IMG_20231014_113112750.jpg
Large fish, possibly a sturgeon

IMG_20231014_113448848_HDR.jpg
Alligator snapping turtle

IMG_20231014_114923374_HDR.jpg
Ostriches at feeding time

IMG_20231014_115518826_HDR.jpg
One of the older avaries, built in the 1920s

IMG_20231014_120540661_HDR.jpg
Elephants

IMG_20231014_120544954_HDR.jpg
Houses overlooking the elephants. Bet they're expensive but great location.

IMG_20231014_121048933_HDR.jpg
Cheetah

IMG_20231014_122202413.jpg
Lion

IMG_20231014_122749451_HDR.jpg
Giraffe

IMG_20231014_122853927_HDR.jpg
Chester zoo has a public footpath splitting the zoo in 2, Basel zoo has the main railway between Basel and France...

IMG_20231014_123242675_HDR.jpg
Rhino

IMG_20231014_123532906.jpg
Snow leopards

IMG_20231014_123730233.jpg
One of 2 penguin enclosures. Other was nearer entrance attached to aquarium.

IMG_20231014_125720266.jpg
Buffalo

IMG_20231014_130558282.jpgMinipigs!

IMG_20231014_131335629_HDR.jpg
Kangaroos

IMG_20231014_131734181_HDR.jpg
Hippos. These were hard to photograph as spent most of their time underwater.

IMG_20231014_132504886.jpg
Orangutan using hay as a wig (and probably shelter from the rain)

IMG_20231014_135259845_HDR.jpg
Gorillas

IMG_20231014_143658762_HDR.jpg
Rather large, funny looking mouse in this enclosure....

IMG_20231014_154016000_HDR.jpg
Sea lion show.

Did consider staying till close but had already done 2 laps of the zoo before sea lion show. Opted to leave instead and head back to hotel. Got back in time to watch the first half of the Wales match.

Also got dinner at the hotel paid for by easyJet. Simple burger and chips but saved me 20CHF. Had to reserve a table though which meant I missed the end of the Wales match. As soon as I switched off the TV, Argentina scored. I blame that reservation for Wales losing....

After dinner, got an early night ready for the very early start in the morning.
 
Last edited:
Day 13 - homeward bound

Short one today. Hotel breakfast started at 4am, bus to airport left at 4:20. Checked out of room before breakfast, had a very quick breakfast and made that first bus.

Again, bag drop and security at Basel were a breeze and I was at my gate with plenty of time to spare. As no direct flights back to Manchester were leaving until the next day, easyJet booked me onto 2 flights today. First Basel to Alicante, then Alicante to Manchester.

First flight was short and uneventful. Left on time, arrived on time. Since luggage wasn't checked through, had to collect luggage and immediately re check it in, as well as pass through security again. Security at Alicante was much busier than Basel but still got through quickly enough. Flight left on time, despite a full flight of hungover Brits after a lads weekend... Lucked out on getting window seats on both flights today, only took photos on this flight:

IMG_20231015_121951616_HDR.jpg
Alicante coastline

IMG_20231015_122912640_HDR.jpg
Spanish mountains

IMG_20231015_140905877_HDR.jpg
White cliffs of Dover

IMG_20231015_141253223_HDR.jpg
Southampton


Flight landed on time. Once again, despite cancelling the initial flight, easyJet have been fantastic over this weekend. New flights and hotel sorted almost immediately after the cancellation. Will always happily fly with them.

Overall been a fantastic trip and one I would do again in a heartbeat. No spites always helps. May do a proper summary post soon.
 
Top