Luge 4 Saisons
Wiegand | Lugik Parc
Les Estables, Haute-Loire, France
Usually set on mountainous or hilly terrain, alpine or mountain coasters frequently offer panoramic views and the feel of an exclusive ride experience since the coaster vehicles are normally limited to one or two riders. This year, just such an alpine coaster opened at Lugik Parc.
Lugik Parc is a new leisure development located in an area of alpine ski slopes at the foot of Mont Mézenc in the Haute‑Loire region of southern France. The alpine coaster, named “Luge 4 Saisons,” meaning “toboggan for four seasons,” takes riders on a winding journey of chicanes along a scenic route 1,200 meters long.
Didier Blanchard, a spokesperson for the park, says the ride features two cable lift hills to provide riders with an acceptably swift downhill passage throughout the ride. “Luge 4 Saisons” offers 28 ride cars seating single riders in two rows for a maximum of two riders per vehicle.
As with all alpine coasters, but unlike standard roller coasters, riders have control of their vehicle’s speed through the use of a hand brake. The vehicles can reach a speed of 40 kph, but the downhill terrain and the sharp turns of alpine coasters can make their rides seem considerably faster than the stated speed. Guests ages 4 and older can ride the coaster, and a child under 8 can ride with another rider who is at least 8 years old.
