Luxembourg – A Trip to the Country of Red Rocks

 In the valley of the Alzette river along the borderl with France, there is a town known as Esch. Originally a farming village it developed to become the industrial heart of this mini-state. This was thanks to rich iron ore deposists. However, it hadn't flourished for long but it didn't experience fall either. Rather old houses were rebuilt into modern ones and culture became dominant enterprise. Cinemas were built as well as the largest concert hall in Luxembourg, shopping malls, apartments etc. High furnaces were remade into research centers, or Luxembourg University archives. Also, it is home to the National Museum of Resistance, and you may see several beautiful pieces of architecture.

What interested us the most was the nature. Yet, paradoxically we started off at a suburban industrial and railway park which makes one realize how the golden age of Luxembourgian industry looked like. Historic train which takes you through what was once mining land is a fascinating attraction, the same goes for old mines which now feature galleries.

From here take one of three nature trails which are listedi n Natura 2000. The trails go through limestone forests, pass hidden ponds, lush ferns, and blossiming meadows. You may also choos a geological trail which can take you also underground. However, we took our children to the animal park which features domestic animals. Moreover, there is a playground and interactive exhibitions of how these animals are actually kept.

Anyone who likes biking will appreciate the Redrock mountian bike trail crossing the nature compound. You may make trips of different difficulties along the trail. You may righ all day long along it, enjoy red klippes covered with grass, bushes or trees.

Rumelange is a place we recommend you to visit for there is the National Mining Museum depicting the history of how this once desolated mining country has changed into one of the best countries for living in the world.

We guarantee you that you will leave this place with many great impressions long to remember.

GPS: 49°29'39.2"N 5°59'07.7"E

Text: Oskár Mažgút

Photos: Beata Firicová