Cabárceno Park: Home to a New Alpine Slide Attraction
Located in the stunning region of Cantabria, Cabárceno Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife and has achieved a remarkable milestone in the care of African elephants. However, the park’s administration isn’t resting on its laurels. They are planning an exhilarating new feature designed to attract more visitors: a spectacular 1.2-kilometer Alpine slide that promises to thrill with speeds of up to 40 km/h.
The initiative aims to make the park more attractive and draw larger crowds. The allure? Simply put, it’s the amazing Alpine Tobogán, a proposed toboggan ride that stands at the intersection of a traditional zoo and a safari, nestled within the picturesque landscapes of the Santander region.
Commonly referred to as the “Alpine Coaster,” these slides consist of rail circuits designed for visitors to race through on sleds, embracing the natural slope of the mountains. For example, Andorra features the popular Tobotronc, renowned for its thrilling more than five kilometers of track.
</div>Fast-Paced Fun: The upcoming Alpine slide in Cantabria may not rival the scale of Tobotronc or the larger Austrian slide, known for its nearly three-kilometer track, but it promises an equally exhilarating experience. The Cantabrian government’s announcement revealed that the slide will extend 1.2 kilometers, comprising 330 meters of ascent and 854 meters of descent. Individuals can achieve speeds of up to 40 km/h, controlled by their own pace.
Sleds and Spins: Details about this adventurous project, backed by the public company Cantur, include 25 two-person sleds that will navigate a zigzag course. Riders will encounter thrilling curves and even two loopings that twist a full 360 degrees . The Cantabrian government has made this vision a reality, publishing a basic project featuring its layout.
Projected Opening: Autumn 2025: This ambitious project was initially unveiled in October 2023 by the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sports, Luis Martínez Abad, who announced an estimated investment of around 1.5 million euros. According to recent updates, the budget has now escalated to three million euros with VAT included, potentially delaying the project until 2026.
Despite the possible delays, interest remains strong. The Cantabrian government recently highlighted the construction project’s ongoing development, making headlines in the news due to public consultations about the plan details.
Residents and visitors will soon be able to explore the project’s specifics on the General Directorate of Urbanism’s website, allowing them to voice opinions or concerns if necessary.
<span>Aerial view of the area where the "Alpine Coaster" will be installed.</span>Diversifying Attractions: The Minister reiterated that the Alpine slide represents a significant opportunity for the park. It aims to enhance year-round visitor engagement and maintain high interest in the park. In 2023, Cabárceno Park attracted over 650,000 visitors , but this number raises concerns. Most visits occur during peak periods like Holy Week and summer months, revealing ongoing challenges.
Furthermore, the park struggles to engage younger demographics. The Cantabrian government emphasizes that attracting individuals between 14 and 24 years old , who currently display less interest in the park, is crucial for its growth and sustainability.
A Thoughtful Location: The slide will be strategically placed near the northern entrance of Obregón, allowing for a non-invasive installation that respects the park’s wildlife, which includes zebras, camels, and elephants. Planners have chosen a site featuring dense trees and a suitable slope for an exciting ride.
The design pays homage to the region’s mining history, blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape by incorporating cut steel, treated wood, and glass. This aesthetic aims to capture the essence of the Cabárceno Iron Mine, allowing riders to appreciate the remnants of the past while enjoying the new attraction.
With these plans underway, the future looks promising for Cabárceno Park as it continues to evolve from a traditional wildlife reserve to a diverse recreational area that attracts both adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Images | Cantabria government, Jeremy Thompson (Flickr) and Tuscasasrural (Flickr)
In Xataka | In its efforts to avoid becoming “the North Ibiza,” Cantabria has taken notable steps to limit tourism in its iconic areas.