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Nature reserve · Esch-sur-Alzette, Esch-sur-Alzette
Ellergronn
Nature reserve south of Esch-sur-Alzette, on a former iron-mining area reclaimed by forest, with waymarked trails, remains of mining installations and a visitor center.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Ellergronn
Ellergronn is a wooded valley south of Esch-sur-Alzette, near the French border, where for decades there were open-cast and underground iron mines. After mining ended, vegetation reclaimed the old workings and the area was protected as a nature reserve.
Waymarked trails pass through woods, dry meadows and red rock cliffs, where you can see the ore that gave the region its name. Along the way there are remains of mining: gallery entrances, tracks, loading platforms and old buildings. The area is home to plants and animals adapted to mining terrain, such as orchids and dry‑grassland butterflies.
At the reserve entrance the visitor center, housed in former mine buildings, explains the geology, the history of mining and the area's nature, and serves as a starting point for walks. Ellergronn is part of the landscapes that led UNESCO to recognize the Minett as a biosphere reserve.
It's a peaceful walk near the town, good for a half‑day hike on forest terrain.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 3 hours, depending on the trail chosen.
Best time
From April to October in dry weather. In spring, May to June, the dry‑grassland plants usually bloom. Check the visitor center's opening hours before you go.
How to get there
It's located south of Esch-sur-Alzette's center, about 3 km away. There are city buses that stop near the entrance; by car, there is parking next to the visitor center.
Tip
Start at the visitor center to pick up the trails map. Wear hiking shoes: the paths have sections of stone and red clay.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ellergronn
Was the Ellergronn a mine?
Yes. The area had both open‑pit and underground iron mines and, after mining ceased, the forest reclaimed it and it was protected as a nature reserve.
Are the trails difficult?
They are generally easy to moderate, on forest terrain with sections of stone and mud. Wear hiking footwear.
What is in the visitor center?
Exhibitions about the geology, mining and nature of the reserve, and maps of the trails.