Description
Located on Hesse's highest mountain, the Wasserkuppe is a popular destination for families and day-trippers alike. During the summer months, the Rhönbob Alpine Coaster and the dual summer toboggan runs provide plenty of downhill fun, while a wide range of attractions, play areas and dining options make the mountain well worth a visit beyond the rides themselves.
Rhönbob and the dual summer toboggan runs
At the heart of the Rodel Arena are the two parallel summer toboggan runs and the Rhönbob Alpine Coaster. The twin toboggan runs allow visitors to race side by side down the mountain, with each rider able to control their own speed. This makes them suitable for both families with young children and those looking for a more thrilling descent.
For even more excitement, the Rhönbob offers a different kind of ride. This rail-guided alpine coaster stretches for around one kilometre across the mountainside, featuring sweeping bends, drops and elevated sections that add to the experience. As with the toboggan runs, riders remain in full control of their speed throughout the ride.
More family attractions
The Rodel Arena offers much more than just alpine coasters. The Wie-Li takes visitors on a gentle ridethrough the fairytale forest, while the Hexenbesen ("Witch's Broom") provides a more lively journey through the surrounding countryside.
Families can also enjoy the wooden marble run, where visitors guide wooden balls through a variety of interactive track elements. Other attractions include the Luna Loop, mini karts, a slide park, an adventure playground, as well as play excavators and a children's crane, giving younger visitors plenty of opportunities to get hands-on.
Right next to the attractions, the Märchenwiesen Hut is a great place to stop for a break. Beyond the Rodel Arena, the Wasserkuppe itself offers numerous hiking trails, scenic viewpoints and attractions dedicated to aviation and gliding, reflecting the mountain's long history as one of the world's most important centres for gliding.
How to get there
The Rodel Arena Wasserkuppe is located on the Wasserkuppe near the town of Gersfeld in the Rhön Mountains. The site is well signposted and easily accessible by car, with parking available on site. During the season, regular bus services also provide connections to the Wasserkuppe.
