Creaking wood, rapid changes of direction, and a feeling of freedom that only a classic wooden roller coaster can offer: WODAN – Timburcoaster is still the only wooden roller coaster at Europa-Park in Rust and has been a crowd favorite in the Iceland-themed area since 2012. With its Nordic theme and spectacular track layout that intersects with two other attractions, it has earned its place among the best wooden roller coasters in Europe. We'll show you what makes WODAN so special.
From construction project to cult roller coaster: The story of WODAN
On March 31, 2012, WODAN – Timburcoaster opened in the then-new Island themed area, which had already launched in 2009 with the Blue Fire Megacoaster . The wooden roller coaster was built by the US specialist Great Coasters International , known worldwide for fast, airtime-rich wooden roller coasters and also responsible for Troy at Toverland in the Netherlands and El Toro at Freizeitpark Plohn, among others. The construction costs for the ride were approximately 10 million euros.
The name WODAN refers to the Germanic form of the Norse god Odin, while "Timbur" is the Icelandic word for wood – a fitting tribute to both the Nordic theming of the Iceland area and the construction material of the roller coaster.
Shortly after its opening, WODAN established itself as a major player among European wooden roller coasters. In the Golden Ticket Awards of the trade magazine Amusement Today, it ranked among the top ten wooden roller coasters worldwide outside of North America for several years – a remarkable achievement considering the stiff competition from established US parks with decades of wooden roller coaster tradition.
Technical specifications: A top-class wooden roller coaster
Even though WODAN doesn't use loops, its speed, height, and characteristic changes of direction provide plenty of thrills. The most important facts:
- Height: 40 meters
- Track length: 1.050 meters
- Maximum speed: up to 100 km/h
- Maximum centrifugal force: 3,5 g
- Travel time: approximately 2,5 to 3,5 minutes
- Vehicles: 3 trains with 12 cars each, 2 people per row, 24 passengers per train
- Theoretical transport capacity: up to 1.250 people per hour
- Minimum height: 120 centimeters
- Single rider lane available
This means WODAN remains Europa-Park's only wooden roller coaster. It regularly ranks among the top-performing wooden roller coasters outside North America in Amusement Today 's Golden Ticket Awards.
The ride: Speed, airtime and two unusual companions
The ride begins with an ascent via the 40-meter-high chain lift. At its top, two fire-breathing wooden figures await, which shoot flames into the air as the trains pass by – an atmospheric start before the first big drop takes you straight down through the impressive wooden structure of the track.
What makes WODAN particularly special is its unique integration with two neighboring attractions: The track crosses both the Blue Fire Megacoaster and the Atlantica SuperSplash water ride. These close encounters not only give riders goosebumps but also offer visitors on the ground a spectacular view. Also characteristic of Great Coasters International's wooden roller coasters are the numerous airtime moments – those brief moments of weightlessness that occur when the train races over a crest.
In recent years, the track has been gradually retrofitted with so-called "Titan Track" – steel rail elements that noticeably smooth out individual sections that have become rougher over time. As a result, the ride is now considered significantly smoother than in the early years of operation, without sacrificing speed or thrill.
The first drop on WODAN is considered particularly impressive: The track runs right through the massive wooden structure of the ride, so you seem to be riding right into the construction before the train propels you with full force into the following curves and hills. The three trains are equipped with classic lap bars that still allow you enough freedom of movement to fully enjoy the typical airtime moments.
The Iceland section: Home of WODAN
WODAN is located in the heart of the Iceland-themed area, which opened in 2009 and expanded Europa-Park from 70 to 85 hectares. A charming fishing village setting with typical wooden and corrugated iron facades stretches across approximately 2 hectares, surrounded by 5.000 square meters of artificial rock formations. Besides WODAN, the Blue Fire Megacoaster and the Atlantica SuperSplash water ride also share this area – together they form one of the most action-packed corners of the entire park. From the queue, you have a direct view of the impressive wooden structure of the ride, while in the background you can constantly hear the characteristic roars of the passing trains – a soundscape that is an experience in itself for many roller coaster enthusiasts.
You can find a complete overview of all themed areas in the park in our comprehensive guide to the themed areas at Europa-Park.
Curious facts about WODAN
WODAN is equipped with three so-called GCI Millennium Flyer trains, which – unusually for most roller coasters – have polyurethane wheels instead of steel. This ensures a particularly smooth and quiet ride, perfectly complementing the natural wood look of the track. A dedicated restroom has also been integrated into the queue area, a rather unusual but practical detail for a roller coaster of this size.
Due to repeated noise complaints from the neighborhood, a noise barrier was also erected over the years. Technical improvements have also been made: Since 2023, Europa-Park has been gradually upgrading the track with modern steel rail elements from the manufacturer Skyline Attractions, which provide a noticeably smoother ride without compromising the classic character of the wooden roller coaster.
WODAN compared to other roller coasters in the park
While the 73-meter-high Silver Star scores points with its height and Voltron Nevera impresses with multiple launches and loops, WODAN focuses entirely on the classic, organic feel of a wooden roller coaster: no loops, but plenty of airtime and the characteristic rattling and creaking of the wooden construction. For fans of classic roller coasters, WODAN is therefore a must-ride – and an exciting contrast to the modern steel roller coasters in the rest of the park.
Even though many visitors come to the park for the modern launch and looping coasters, a ride on WODAN is almost obligatory for roller coaster enthusiasts: The intense, organic feel of a wooden roller coaster cannot truly be replicated by any steel coaster, and the proximity to Blue Fire and Atlantica SuperSplash makes the ride a real shared experience in the Island themed area.
Who is WODAN – Timburcoaster suitable for?
With a minimum height requirement of 120 centimeters, WODAN is suitable for younger children and therefore ideal as an introduction to the world of big roller coasters. Since the ride doesn't feature any loops but still offers noticeable thrills and speed, it appeals to both families and experienced roller coaster enthusiasts. Our Europa-Park attraction height guide provides an overview of which rides are suitable for which age groups.
Practical tips for your visit to WODAN
Wodan is one of the park's most popular attractions and can involve waiting times of 20 to 30 minutes, especially during peak season. Conveniently, a single-rider lane is available at the station, allowing solo riders to board much faster. Our article " Avoiding Waiting Times at Europa-Park" reveals further strategies for reducing waiting times throughout the park . A good time to ride is during the first few hours after opening or the last few hours before closing, as these times are usually much less crowded than at midday.
To ensure your trip is a complete success, it's also worth taking a look at our articles on Europa-Park tickets and prices , how to get to Europa-Park , and the park's opening hours . Those who would like to combine their visit with an overnight stay can find suitable accommodation in our comprehensive comparison of Europa-Park hotels .
Whether as a contrast to the modern steel giants or as an introduction for roller coaster novices: WODAN – Timburcoaster remains one of the most distinctive rides in the entire Europa-Park and a real must for every visit.
Frequently Asked Questions about WODAN – Timburcoaster
When did WODAN – Timburcoaster open?
WODAN opened on March 31, 2012 in the Iceland themed area of Europa-Park.
Is WODAN the only wooden roller coaster in Europa-Park?
Yes, WODAN is still the first and only wooden roller coaster in the entire park.
How high and how fast is WODAN?
The track is 40 meters high and reaches a top speed of up to 100 km/h.
What is the minimum size requirement for WODAN?
Guests must be at least 120 centimeters tall to ride along.
Does Wodan have loops?
No, WODAN manages entirely without loops and instead relies on speed, changes of direction and airtime moments.
Who built WODAN – Timburcoaster?
The wooden roller coaster was built by the American manufacturer Great Coasters International. You can find more information on the official Europa-Park website.
Why does WODAN intersect with other roller coasters?
The track layout was deliberately designed to intersect the Blue Fire Megacoaster and the Atlantica SuperSplash water ride. These close encounters provide an extra thrill and a spectacular view for visitors on the ground.
