Established in the 1950s as a recreational space for mine workers, Esch-sur-Alzette’s Gaalgebierg animal park continues to serve as an accessible nature retreat just minutes from the city centre. The 2.5-hectare park houses over 100 animals, exclusively featuring local and domestic species rather than exotic wildlife.
When it was created in the 50s, the idea was to offer a nearby place of rest for the workers from the mines. “This concept is still relevant today. Relaxing in nature. The animal park is open to everyone, always accessible and close to the town, a place to clear your head,” park manager Anne Meyers told our colleagues from RTL Télé.
Visitors of all ages can admire more than a hundred animals across the park’s two and a half hectares: deer, fallow deer, and mouflon, as well as domestic animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, goats, and sheep.
For years, Highland cattle have also lived in the park in a large meadow. There is a bull and a cow, who have just had a calf: Joséphine, Niggi, and the youngest, Lucie. “Highlanders are robust, very calm and gentle. They’ve been raised here from a very young age and are used to all weather conditions,” Meyers explained: “They are used to wearing their headcollars and not being too pushy. That’s why we know how to handle the Highlanders. Their blood tests have to be done regularly, preferably without stress. They know the keepers and are perfectly comfortable around them.”
A staff of four keepers and two maintenance workers manages all park operations. The animals consume 1.5 tonnes of grain monthly and approximately 250 kilogrammes of seasonal, regional fruits and vegetables each week. All meals are prepared in the park’s kitchen during evening hours to ensure efficient morning feedings starting at 7am. “That way, the morning team can start feeding the animals straight away, so our four-legged friends don’t have to wait too long,” Meyers noted.
For five years, Gaalgebierg Animal Park has offered unique treehouse accommodations, accommodating four to six guests each. The concept came from Germany. “The first set of treehouses was built 20 years ago. That’s what inspired us. The treehouses are open all year round. Each one is a unique design. Every season has its own charm. Often, different generations will sleep in one treehouse. Most visitors only stay for one night,” Meyers said.
The park houses approximately 17 parakeets, primarily sourced from breeders and Dudelange’s Wildlife Care Centre. These long-lived birds (with lifespans up to 30 years) have become visitor favourites, particularly the hand-tamed “Conny,” who readily accepts food from keepers’ hands. “Their diet consists mainly of grain, supplemented with fruit and vegetable treats,” explained team leader Lena Righetto.
The park remains open throughout the year with free admission for all visitors. A playground provides additional recreation for younger guests, while dog owners may bring their pets – provided they remain leashed.
Complete details about the treehouses and park facilities can be found on the official website at www.deierepark.esch.lu.
