Toverland wishes to grow (Ithaka, Port Laguna...) and is requesting a loan from the province. But what exactly does that involve?

Just so you know, what exactly is happening here?

If you've been at Toverland recently, you’ve probably noticed: There’s a certain sense that we’re entering a new phase. Not just a few new attractions here and there, but a much bigger vision. With expansions like Port Laguna and a new resort called Ithaka.

Because of this, Toverland has asked the Province of Limburg for a loan to fund this growth. Exciting, right? But what does this actually mean? I’ll explain it below in plain language, without complicated financial terms.

Toverland is requesting that the province lend them money. While the College of Deputy States can approve such a loan, first the Provincial States get the chance to share their opinions and concerns. Only after that will the loan agreement be presented to the Deputy States for a final decision.

First, the vision.

Toverland aims to grow into a destination where visitors don’t just come for the day, but can also stay overnight. The documents call this a "full destination resort".

This fits with plans such as:

• Resort Ithaka (overnight accommodations).

• Port Laguna (park expansion).

• Blitzbahn (replacement of an attraction).

• A new office building (The Clubhouse).

• A larger technical workshop (currently under construction).

Okay, but... why is the province involved?

According to the proposal, Toverland has a total investment plan of about €98 million. Of this, €78 million has already been funded, but there’s still a funding gap that can’t be covered through the usual market channels (meaning it can’t be fully financed by banks or other lenders).
So Toverland has asked the province for a market-based loan (meaning it’s not free money—it’s a loan with interest and specific conditions).

The numbers in simple Dutch

The proposal clearly outlines the key points:

• The province intends to provide a loan of €20 million.

• The loan term will be 10 years.

• The interest rate is 6.19% per year over the entire term.

• The province will secure collateral: a mortgage and pledge, ranking second after the bank.

• Additionally, the province will maintain a risk reserve buffer of €354,000.

In short: The province isn’t simply giving away money, but lending money with interest, secured by collateral and a risk reserve.

Market failure? What does that mean?

The proposal explains that market failures exist: although the business case is positive, the market won’t fund everything (especially if you want to develop a resort, expand the park, and construct internal buildings all in a short time). In plain terms: banks will finance part but not all at once.
It’s also mentioned that Toverland spoke with LIOF among others, but no suitable funding options were available (LIOF mainly invests through equity or shares, which doesn’t fit with this project).

Is this final? No, there’s one more step

The Provincial States will first have the chance to voice their wishes and concerns regarding the Deputy States’ intention to grant the loan.

The accompanying letter says this will be handled in:

• the State Economics and Society Commission (27 February 2026)

• and then in Provincial States (20 March 2026).

Also, some attachments are kept confidential for States Members, so not all information is public.

What will you experience as a visitor?

If this goes ahead, it means Toverland aims to evolve from a "day trip" destination to a place for a "mini" holiday. This typically means:

• more new attractions in the park (such as Port Laguna and the Blitzbahn project).

• and a resort concept: distributing visitors throughout the year and encouraging stays over multiple days (Ithaka).

The province also states that having a resort function can help maintain operations year-round, create a more stable visitor pattern, and increase regional spending.

I understand why this news is catching attention: a province lending money to an amusement park sounds striking when said in one sentence. But when you read the proposal, it’s mostly a story about how growth costs money, the final part of funding is challenging, and the province wants to support it (under certain conditions) because of its regional benefits.
What I’m curious about is what Ithaka and Port Laguna will look like, and whether Toverland truly becomes a multi-day park. If this continues, I’ll definitely keep following it!

Mini-FAQ

Is this a grant?
No, it’s a loan with interest.
Is the province at risk?
Yes, that’s why there is collateral and a risk reserve.
Has it been decided?
Not yet. The States can express wishes and concerns before the College of Deputy States makes a final decision.
Will you follow this?
If anything happens, I will keep following it.

Are you more of a day visitor to Toverland or would you stay overnight in Ithaka if it becomes available?

(Please leave a comment via email or on social media; I’m curious!)

photobook: Toverland loan

Source:

2026-toverland-leningaanvraag