The Netherlands: OverTheEdge – Europe’s Highest Swing Opened in Amsterdam

In the presence of Amsterdam mayor Eberhard van der Laan and initiator Sander Groet, a brand-new visitor attraction was opened at the top of Amsterdam’s A’DAM Tower, located on the north bank of the IJ, across from Amsterdam Central Station, yesterday. „Over The Edge“ is a swing attraction with a total of four seats (two side-by-side) that swings at a height of almost 100 meters and enables guests to enjoy an unparalleled view of the city. The swings are hydraulically driven and make visitors feel like swinging forth and back beyond the edge of the building. Manufacturers are the Dutch companies NorthernLight and Bruns. The 500,000 Euro attraction, OverTheEdge, is a part of the newly opened A’DAM Lookout observation platform, which is located on the two top floors of the A’DAM Tower, with indoor and outdoor observation decks providing for a 360 degree view of the city. An interactive exhibition about Amsterdam’s history and culture inside the building complements the experience.

Following comprehensive restoration and renovation works, A’DAM Tower, formerly known as „Shell Tower“, was opened to the public in mid-May this year. Until 2009, the tower, which was designed by architect Arthur Staal and completed in 1971, served as headquarter of the Dutch oil company Shell. Today, besides the entertainment offerings on the two top floors of the building, the tower also houses several restaurants, a club and a hotel. Since its opening last May, A’DAM Lookout has already attracted more than 100,000 visitors. (eap)