Bettembourg's Parc Merveilleux still captivates families after seven decades

Parc Merveilleux in Bettembourg first opened its gates in 1956, and since then, generations of children from Luxembourg and the surrounding regions have explored its blend of fantasy and wildlife. The giant at the heart of the park remains a familiar figure, and it's not unusual for parents to ask their children whether "the giant is still asleep" as families prepare their visit.

The park was inaugurated on 17 May 1956 thanks to the vision of Dutch landscape architect Willem Ter Braake, in collaboration with the Bettembourg municipality. It gained enormous popularity in the 1970s under its first director, Jean Gales.

Ruth Herber, head of tourism at Parc Merveilleux, explained that in 1997, the park was taken over by the Association of Parents of Mentally Handicapped Children (APEMH), who were then seeking new spaces for workshops. Herber noted that back in the early days, the park attracted about 70,000 visitors per year.

Today, that figure has grown to approximately 300,000 each season, according to Herber. She explained further that while most visitors come from Luxembourg and the Greater Region, the summer months also bring many Dutch tourists. June and early July are particularly busy with school trips, Herber says. She also proudly recalled that over 2,000 children from 35 classes visited this year.

A wonderland of play and wildlife

From the miniature train and electric cars to pony rides, many attractions have become multi-generational favourites. The large playground by the restaurant has also been there since the beginning. And of course, the park is home to an array of animals that visitors can observe up close.

Currently, around 200 animal species reside in the park, totalling nearly 3,000 creatures. Veterinarian Guy Willems, who has worked there for 22 years, stated that he is responsible for deciding which animals are housed at the park, which ones may reproduce, and which zoos they collaborate with for animal transfers.

Feeding the animals is a major operation: every year the park goes through over 10,000kg of meat, 80 tonnes of dry feed, and around 500kg of fresh fruit and vegetables weekly, Willems explained. He also noted that although the park does keep snakes, none of them are venomous.

A dedicated team behind the scenes

During the summer holidays, the park welcomes between 1,500 and 2,000 visitors per day. On public holidays in May, that number can rise to 5,000, according to Herber. Spread across 25 hectares, the park also employs around 100 people with mild disabilities, who help with everything from keeping the grounds clean to feeding the animals.

Rachel Kasel, who helps care for the red pandas, shared her joy in working with them. Rewa and Nischo, the resident pandas, recently became proud parents of two cubs, which is a rare event. Kasel said that the young pandas are currently about the size of small dogs, and added, with a beaming smile, how well Rewa is taking care of them.

Pelicans, storks, and sheep are also a big hit with visitors. Natascha, a young staff member who has worked at the park for nearly two years, said the sheep are fed hay and bread, and if they don’t approach right away, rattling the feed bucket usually gets their attention. The sound of bread rustling brings them over quickly, she added.

Emma, who feeds the storks and pelicans, explained that five of the pelicans are fed fish mixed with a pill and have developed strong trust in their keepers, with two pelicans even tame enough to stroke.

The gentle giant

The park’s iconic giant has been a permanent fixture since nearly the beginning. Herber explained that he’s repainted every two years and now even snores again – a feature that had been silent for some time. A few years ago, a children’s book was published about him, following his adventures through Bettembourg. The giant lies peacefully in the park, unfazed as children climb and bounce on him.

Future plans and practical challenges

Plans to expand the park are under discussion but would require approval from the local council. One pressing issue remains parking. On weekends and public holidays, it can be difficult to find a space nearby. One idea on the table is to build a multi-storey car park opposite the football field, although that remains a long-term prospect. Herber explained that in the meantime, a free shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes between 11am and 7pm from the Krakelshaff car park, helping ease congestion.

Regarding entry prices, Herber noted that ticket costs have remained unchanged this year and last. However, she warned that increases in electricity or food supply prices could force a future adjustment.

The park is open daily until 12 October 2025, from 9.30am to 7pm.

Entry fees:

Adults: €15
Children aged 3–14: €10

More information can be found on their website here.