August 19, 2025, 4:47 am | Read time: 3 minutes

When Günther Ziegler (76), founder of the playground construction company “Ziegler Playgrounds from A–Z,” looks out of his office window, he sees what once existed only in his mind: an enchanted dream world made of wood. “The park is meant to inspire both children and adults to imaginative play, movement, and dreaming,” Ziegler says in an interview with BILD. The park was created “almost on the side” over the past few years.

On the site of a former clay pit, a fairy-tale adventure world has emerged on three hectares, inviting exploration with 20 nature-inspired themed worlds. Wood–primarily robinia, also known as “false acacia”–is the dominant building material. It connects in the name “ArkaZien” with the idyll of Arcadia; the large Z comes from the family name Ziegler.

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Sustainability Consistently Implemented

The construction of the park took 13 years and was carried out almost exclusively with natural materials. The company’s approximately 100 employees worked on the large-scale project alongside their regular daily business. Special focus was placed on environmental protection: recycled old building parts, green roofs, insect-friendly planting, and energy-saving LED lighting are central elements of the concept.

Those hoping for classic rides or loud entertainment will not find it here–intentionally. Instead, visitors can play, explore, and climb in different areas: from the jungle to a lizard castle, a willow maze, a gold panning facility, or the fishing village. A marketplace with small shops is also included.

“ArkaZien” not only forgoes roller coasters but also typical amusement park food. You won’t find cola and fries–the gastronomy offers regional, predominantly vegetarian dishes on reusable dishes instead. The goal: the smallest possible ecological footprint.

Limited Admission–Start with Test Operation

For the start on September 3, Ziegler plans a test phase with limited access. “Initially, we want to limit the daily number of visitors to 1,500 people–also to gain experience in real operation,” he explains. 300 parking spaces are available directly on the site. Admission tickets are available from 13 euros, also in digital form to save paper. “ArkaZien” will be closed during the winter months–the park is meant to live with nature.

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In the long term, further growth is planned: The nature-oriented concept is to be expanded–with even more space for dreams made of wood and imagination.