In the heart of the Minett UNESCO Biosphere, between Schifflange, Kayl and Esch-sur-Alzette, Brucherbierg–Lalléngerbierg is one of the most distinctive landscapes of the former mining basin. Where iron ore was once extracted in open-cast mines, a 267-hectare national nature reserve now extends across dry grasslands, cliffs and open landscapes that form exceptional habitats and offers stunning views over the whole area.

Brucherbierg–Lalléngerbierg shows particularly clearly how strongly the history of the Minett continues to shape nature and the landscape today. Mining left behind a landscape marked by red soils, rocky surfaces, quarry faces and traces of industry. These special conditions enabled nature to gradually develop highly distinctive habitats.

Today, this former open-cast mining area is simultaneously a nature reserve, a core zone of the Minett UNESCO Biosphere and a popular local recreation area.

One of the most important habitats for the woodlark

The extensive open areas and dry grasslands at Brucherbierg–Lalléngerbierg are valuable habitats for animals and plants adapted to these dry, warm conditions.

The former open-cast mining areas are especially important for ground-nesting birds. The Environment Agency specifically mentions the woodlark and the tree pipit. Today, the former Minett open-cast mines are among the most important refuges for these species.

This is also supported by more recent data: the 2025 report by the Natura 2000 steering committee for the Minett open-cast mining areas identifies Lalléngerbierg as the principal breeding area for the woodlark among the Minett sites studied.

Besides birds, orchids, butterflies, wild bees and reptiles also benefit from the special conditions in the former open-cast mines. The Environment Agency attributes this biodiversity partly to the nutrient-poor substrates, rocky surfaces and warm, dry microclimate of the sites.

When nature reclaims the red soil

After iron-ore mining ended, a gradual transformation began at Brucherbierg–Lalléngerbierg.

Dry grasslands developed on the former mining areas. Today, the open, rocky landscape provides a habitat for specialised flora and fauna. The former mining landscape has not disappeared; it has acquired a new purpose.

It is precisely this overlapping of layers that makes the site so typical of the Minett: its industrial history can still be read in the shape of the landscape, while nature has simultaneously reclaimed it.

Cliffs of Minett rock, open terrain and varied vegetation accompany visitors through the site. From here, there are also views towards the former industrial area of Esch-Belval.

© Marc Weis

A landscape under active protection

The fact that this open landscape is now so rich in biodiversity cannot be taken for granted.

Without maintenance, the characteristic dry grasslands would gradually become overgrown with trees and scrub. To preserve these open habitats, areas in the former open-cast mines are therefore cleared of scrub and mown, among other measures. Migratory grazing with Minett sheep and goats is also used.

This preserves sunny rocky habitats and dry grasslands that support a wide range of specialised species.

Brucherbierg–Lalléngerbierg therefore also demonstrates clearly that nature conservation does not simply mean leaving nature to itself; sometimes it requires actively managing and restoring habitats.

Exploring Brucherbierg–Lalléngerbierg on foot

The site is particularly interesting because nature, landscape and history can all be experienced together on a walk.

Several waymarked trails pass through or alongside the nature reserve. These include the Schifflange Auto-Pédestre route and CFL hiking trails 25, Kayl–Schifflange, and 25a, Esch-sur-Alzette–Um Réimerwee.

From Schifflange, there are other ways to explore the landscape. The Kaweechelcherspad follows the northern and western slopes of Brucherbierg. The “Saturn” planetary trail combines a walk with information about the solar system and the universe.

Guided walks through the former open-cast mining area are also available for those wishing to explore the site in greater depth. They focus on subjects including the dry grasslands, characteristic orchid and bird species, and the necessary conservation measures.

Explore without disturbing

The appeal of Brucherbierg–Lalléngerbierg is also a challenge. The former open-cast mining areas lie close to towns and are heavily used by walkers, hikers, runners and cyclists.

To protect the sensitive habitats, it is therefore important to:

• stay on the marked paths;
• not pick or damage plants;
• not catch or disturb animals;
• respect the designated quiet zones;
• keep dogs on a lead from 1 March to 30 September.

 

These rules are particularly important for ground-nesting birds, whose breeding sites are especially sensitive to disturbance.

Nearby: extend your visit

A visit to Brucherbierg–Lalléngerbierg can easily be combined with other nearby attractions.

Dumontshaff

Not far away, Dumontshaff offers a very different natural landscape. Here, the restoration of the Alzette created a wetland with ideal conditions for a bird sanctuary, leading to its designation as both a Natura 2000 site and a nature reserve. An educational trail runs through the area.

Ellergronn Nature and Forest Centre

In Esch-sur-Alzette, Ellergronn is a starting point for learning more about nature, the protected areas of the former Minett open-cast mines and the history of mining in general.

Discover Schifflange

A whole network of hiking trails surrounds Schifflange, including the Minett Trail, Schëfflenger Bierg, “Saturn”, the “Kaweechelcherspad” and educational trails at the restored Dumontshaff.

A landscape between industrial history and biodiversity

Brucherbierg–Lalléngerbierg tells a story that is typical of the Minett.

Iron-ore mining shaped the terrain and left deep traces in the landscape. After mining ended, these traces laid the foundations for new habitats. The former mines, their terraces, cliffs and nutrient-poor soils are now part of a landscape of high ecological value.

As a core zone of the Minett UNESCO Biosphere, Brucherbierg–Lalléngerbierg makes this relationship particularly visible: a human-altered landscape that has become a refuge for nature and that can now be protected, cared for and experienced with respect.

This is perhaps where the true fascination of the place lies: the Minett’s industrial history and nature do not stand in opposition. Together, they have created a new landscape.