The national “Wëllefcherscamp” (Cub Scout Camp) organised by the Luxembourg Guides and Scouts (LGS), is themed Mystaria – a magical world filled with adventures, mythical creatures, and a week of nature, teamwork, and tent life.
The camp’s storyline is at the heart of the experience. Jackie Appel, one of the programme organisers, explained that the idea is to bring children together from all over the country to share a fun and imaginative adventure. Appel noted that in the story, they’ve landed in the enchanted world of Mystaria, but the portal back to the real world has broken. Over the first four days, the children must work together to collect the missing portal pieces – essentially fragments of the power cable – to repair it and find their way home by the end of the camp, Appel explained.
Including volunteers and staff, the camp brings together over 1,000 people. Appel stated that each day is filled with workshops, sports, music, and excursions. She noted that some groups, for instance, visit local farms like the Bornhaff or take part in gardening activities with partners. Appel further explained that one of their goals – supported by the non-profit Œuvre nationale – is to help children better understand the importance of healthy eating and where food actually comes from.
Fränk Prin from the LGS highlighted the social and developmental value of the event. Unlike smaller, local camps where children tend to stay within their usual groups, this national camp gives them the opportunity to meet hundreds of new peers, Prin explained. He added that they eat, play, and take part in activities together, which helps them grow and learn beyond just having fun. Prin noted that the camp environment encourages children to become more confident, more engaged, and more communicative, especially without phones or electricity in the tents to distract them.
The children themselves are enthusiastic about the experience. One camper shared, “I really like it, I’m so happy to be here with the Scouts”. Another laughed, stating “it’s great, but the tent smells a bit”. Several praised the camp leaders for being kind and approachable, and said they loved meeting new friends and were enjoying the variety of activities.
Alongside the fun, sustainability is also a key focus. Children are taught the value of seasonal and regional food, and any leftovers are donated to reduce waste.
A visitors’ day will take place on Saturday, offering food, drinks, and activities for families to get a glimpse of everything the children have been doing throughout the week.
Anyone interested in joining the Luxembourg Guides and Scouts can find more information and register with their local group online.
