In a first for Luxembourg, the state is now operating a campsite at Toodlermillen. Although the site is currently very quiet, those in charge hope that this will change by the summer.

The campsite at Toodlermillen in Esch-sur-Sûre reopened on Monday after being closed for the past two years. No major changes have been made yet following the change in ownership, but several are planned. Most notably, this is the first campsite in Luxembourg to be run by the state.

Despite ideal camping weather, the site, situated right next to the Sûre river, remains quite empty. On Thursday morning, no tents, caravans, or camper vans were in sight.

Only four Belgian motorcyclists stopped by for a drink in the small bistro. Yet the location has much to offer, according to Martine Backendorf, who is responsible for marketing and communication at the Association of Youth Hostels (AJL), which now manages the campsite.

Backendorf provided an overview of the site, explaining that there are 120 pitches accommodating up to 360 people, as well as a "Family Camp" area for individuals and families. In the future, an "Evasion Camp" will be added, though for now there are still pitches there, she said.

By 2027, cottages are planned to attract a slightly different public and extend the season, allowing visitors to stay even in bad weather, according to Backendorf. She also highlighted the "Youth Camp," which she described as "very important", particularly for the National Youth Service (SNJ).

The SNJ supports the AJL mainly with coordination and logistics, for example during scout camps. The current quiet period has not come as a surprise, as many people are simply not yet aware that the campsite has reopened, Backendorf said.

However, she noted that bookings for the summer are gradually increasing. For Monday's reopening, a few tourists were on site, and several locals also visited and thoroughly enjoyed themselves, according to campsite manager Dylan Da Silva.

Da Silva said that five minibuses arrived, and feedback from visitors was positive. "We had an elderly man, for example, who was glad that we took over the campsite and that it didn't go private, so that only private individuals can go on it," Da Silva said.

From autumn onwards, a number of modernisation works will be carried out, primarily on the sanitary facilities, but also on the reception area and the terrace. The former hay hotel will not be reopened, mainly due to fire risk concerns. However, the building will remain standing and could be used for activities with school classes.

The fact that the state is now running a campsite could occasionally lead to accusations of unfair competition. According to Backendorf, however, no negative feedback has been received so far.

She said that the AJL plans to submit an application for membership in Camprilux, simply to demonstrate its willingness to cooperate with others. "We already have good cooperation with the whole accommodation sector anyway", Backendorf assured.

She also pointed out that prices are not determined by the state but by the AJL. Backendorf stressed that the association will align its rates with those of other campsites in Luxembourg, "so that people do not pay too much, but also not too little".

Regarding financial risks, a partnership agreement between the SNJ and the AJL stipulates that the SNJ would cover a potential deficit of up to €100,000 in 2026 and up to €125,000 in 2027. From 2028 onwards, the amount could be adjusted.

As for the purchase price, the state paid €2.6 million to the previous owner, a farmer whose property is situated right next to the campsite.