Discovering UNESCO's natural heritage in Luxembourg
UNESCO heritage is also about nature. In fact, UNESCO's "Man and the Biosphere" and "UNESCO Global Geoparks" programmes focus on natural resources and the relationship between people and their environment. In Luxembourg, two areas have been awarded this quality label: the Minett Unesco Biosphere, which joined the network of biosphere reserves in 2020, and the Natur- & Geopark Mëllerdall, which is part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network since 2022.
Minett Unesco Biosphere – Biosphere reserve
The Minett region, also called the Terres rouges (Red rocks) region, is located in the south of Luxembourg. It is a densely populated area with a long history characterised by iron mining and the steel industry. It is home to the largest natural reserves in the country. More recently, the region has been able to diversify its economy, reconvert parts of its industrial heritage and protect its natural environment.
In October 2020, Minett Unesco Biosphere was officially integrated into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves of the UNESCO "Man and the Biosphere" programme. In order to be internationally recognised as a biosphere reserve, the area must demonstrate the impact of specific factors linked to human activity on nature. This is the case for this particular region, which has been strongly affected by industrial activity from the late 19th century until the 1990s: the extraction and processing of iron ore, the iron and steel wastelands as well as the mines have left their mark on the landscape. The role of immigration, notably the influx of Italians, also proved decisive in the development of the region.
This natural area has become a learning ground for sustainable development, rich in biodiversity and a site of historical significance, which has benefited from a major urban renewal. With a surface area of 200km2, the area is home to about one-third of the population of Luxembourg and 150 nationalities. The region has protected areas of natural beauty and more than 600 hectares of industrial wasteland undergoing regeneration. It is a genuine gift for lovers of nature and industrial history.
What is the best way to explore this extraordinary biosphere?
Firstly, we recommend that you explore the region by taking a hike through the 11 municipalities that are part of the biosphere: Bettembourg, Differdange, Dudelange, Esch-sur-Alzette, Käerjeng, Kayl, Mondercange, Pétange, Rumelange, Sanem and Schifflange. The landscape is characterised by "cuestas" which are unobstructed asymmetrical landforms. They include various natural habitats and numerous ecosystems such as orchards, limestone grasslands, alluvial or ravine forests, wet meadows, all of which are home to a diverse range of fauna and flora.
The star trail is undoubtedly the Minett Trail, designed specifically for the UNESCO application. Its 90km are spread over 10 stages, and you can also stay in one of the 11 unique lodges located along the way.
The Minett Unesco Biosphere agenda also features a wide range of activities. Get involved!
"The "Man and the Biosphere" programme predicts the consequences of today's actions on tomorrow's world and thereby increases people's ability to efficiently manage natural resources for the well-being of both human populations and the environment." UNESCO.
Natur- & Geopark Mëllerdall - UNESCO Global Geopark
Did you know, over 200 million years ago, there was a sea in the Natur- & Geopark Mëllerdall region? The sandstones that formed the seabed still reveal many traces of that era and provide a unique insight into the history of the region. At present, the orography of the park plays a vital role in the supply of drinking water, the presence of certain animal and plant species, and land use.
With this remarkable history, the Natur- & Geopark Mëllerdall officially became part of the UNESCO Global Geopark network in April 2022. A UNESCO Global Geopark is an area with a geological heritage of international importance. Many of the geoparks in the UNESCO network help to raise awareness of geological hazards such as volcanic risks, earthquakes and tsunamis, and as part of this, develop hazard mitigation strategies within local communities. UNESCO Global Geoparks keep records of climate change in recent years. They act as educators for the changes that are taking place and help to adopt good environmental practices by promoting the use of renewable energy and green tourism.
What is the ideal way to explore the nature park?
Without a doubt, hiking is the best way to discover the park. Route 2 of the Mullerthal Trail takes you past one of the most amazing geosites of the park: the Wollefsschlucht (wolf gorge) a breathtaking 40m deep gorge. Moreover, the trails often pass through villages that offer local specialties, such as Berdorf cheese, a culinary delight which showcases the relationship between the inhabitants of the region and their environment.
The park also offers a wide range of events, which combine exploration with learning: these include nature trails for children, drinking water discovery hikes, bird walks, herb workshops, activities with bees and many more!
One of the major attractions of the park is the large number of fruit trees: apples, prunes, pears, Mirabelle plums and cherries. The close ties between people and the environment is evident in this region and we highly recommend that you sample the local products; you won't regret it!
Last update