Princess on the Pea: Efteling’s New Fairytale

In Efteling’s Märchenwald, residents and visitors welcomed Princess Adinda during a vibrant ceremony. The fairytale “Die Prinzessin auf der Erbse” unveiled its royal pavilion, where Adinda rests atop a stack of mattresses. A tiny pea beneath the layers reveals her true princess nature.

Festive Opening in Märchenwald

A colorful ceremony marked the debut of Efteling’s 31st fairytale. Media and early guests gathered at the edge of Märchenwald to admire the new pavilion, nestled between Frau Holle and Der Trollkönig. Attendants drew back the curtains, revealing Princess Adinda atop a towering pile of twenty mattresses and duvets. Visibly unrested, she complained of something hard beneath her mattress—a hidden pea proving her sensitivity. The Efteling Grand Hotel raised its flag to celebrate Adinda’s arrival. Veronique, a 22-year-old visitor who traveled with her mother for the occasion, enthused: “It’s a warm, intimate fairytale with intricate details and global appeal.”

A Fairytale with Musical Charm

For the first time, a poetic song replaces the traditional spoken narrative in Märchenwald. Belgian singer Geike Arnaert performs the tale, accompanied by a melody from house composer René Merkelbach. The song emphasizes the moral: true beauty lies within. Starting May 16, 2025, the album, featuring the sung narrative “Die Prinzessin auf der Erbse,” the instrumental “So wie du bist,” and background track “Schönheit in der Dämmerung,” will be available on Spotify and other streaming platforms.

Adinda’s Tale

A prince sought a true princess to wed. One stormy evening, a drenched girl in a tattered dress knocked on the palace gates, claiming to be a princess from a distant land. The queen tested her with a pea hidden beneath twenty mattresses and duvets. In the morning, Adinda reported sleeplessness due to something hard beneath her. Thus, she proved her royal lineage and was recognized as a true princess.

Intricate Details in the Pavilion

The royal pavilion, located near the Efteling Grand Hotel, blends seamlessly into Märchenwald’s tradition. Its proximity to the hotel inspired the choice of this fairytale, centered on a sleeping princess. Delicate paper-cut art on the walls subtly nods to author Hans Christian Andersen, adding depth to the scene. The pavilion creates an authentic fairytale setting, brought to life with thoughtful details.

Sensitivity as Strength

Koen Sanders, Director of Product, Market, and Image, highlighted the fairytale’s significance: “Adinda’s sensitivity is her strength. This story connects through its narrative power, showing that true beauty lies deep within.” The tiny pea symbolizes a timeless message that resonates with visitors of all ages. The fairytale underscores how sensitivity becomes a strength, enriching Märchenwald’s legacy.