Respect, please!

Discovering the natural beauty of our Biosphere Reserve and contributing to its conservation is a responsibility shared by all those who walk through Luxembourg’s former open-cast mines. These sites, marked by the industrial activity of the 20th century, have become real islands of biodiversity, rich in rare species of flora and fauna. By following a few rules, we can actively enjoy these areas while preserving them.

Dog walking is a common activity for outdoor enthusiasts. However, all dogs must be kept on a lead from 1 March to 30 September. Many species of birds, such as the woodlark, nest on the ground during this sensitive period. Keeping dogs on a lead not only ensures the safety of these birds and their offspring, but also helps to preserve the fragile natural balance of these areas.

Use the marked trails

The former open-cast mines, which have actively contributed to the country’s wealth, also offer a unique panorama, alternating between dry grasslands, scrubland and isolated arboreal features. These are complex ecosystems that provide an essential habitat for a variety of living organisms, including many orchids, which have become very rare in Luxembourgish landscapes. In order to protect them, we recommend that you stay on the marked paths throughout the year. The network of paths that criss-cross our Biosphere Reserve allows you to discover it while minimising your ecological footprint and enjoying the natural beauty of these landscapes.

When visiting the natural areas of the Biosphere Reserve, another important aspect to consider is waste management. The cleanliness of the sites is not only aesthetic, but also has a direct impact on local biodiversity. It is therefore essential to take all the rubbish you produce during your stay with you, in order to preserve the beauty and purity of the sites.

Minetter Schof: a UNESCO World Heritage

In addition to their ecological value, the former open-cast mines are also the site of traditional farming practices. The movement of flocks of sheep and goats (Minetter Schof) across the dry grasslands is a spectacle in itself. These pastoral practices, which have been inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2023, support habitat management and promote plant and animal diversity. Visitors are invited to enjoy transhumance, a testimony to the harmony between human activity and nature conservation.

After mining, nature reclaimed these areas, transforming them into flowering meadows and refuges for many insects and other wildlife. These changes illustrate nature’s resilience and underline the importance of sound management practices to preserve these unique ecosystems. These practices are implemented and managed by COPIL Natura 2000 Minetter Dagebaugebitter.

In conclusion, Minett’s former open-cast mining sites are ecological spaces that demand our attention and respect. By behaving responsibly and respectfully, we can play an active role in preserving these sites for present and future generations to discover and appreciate. A respectful coexistence with the fauna and flora of these sites forms the basis of a sustainable natural heritage for Luxembourg.