The city of Esch-sur-Alzette plans to invest several million euros over the next two to three years to expand and modernise the Escher Déierepark, including three new tree houses, a redesigned animal enclosure and space for new species.
The upgrade forms part of a broader tourism development alongside the neighbouring campsite, which will include an outdoor pool. In November, the city of Esch announced an investment of €12.5 million for the campsite project. A further €3.4 million is earmarked over the next two to three years for the expansion of the “Bamhaushotel” within the animal park.
The tree house hotel will receive three additional houses, doubling its capacity.
Plans for the park include the construction of a new small-animal enclosure near the former main entrance and the modernisation of its ageing red deer enclosure.
The idea is to involve the visitors in the work. At least emotionally
Anne Meyers
Responsible for the Escher Déierepark at the city of Esch-sur-Alzette
One option for new arrivals would be alpacas
“The red deer enclosure is one of the oldest in the park and no longer reflects modern zoo design,” explained zoo director Anne Meyers.
The current red deer population, which mainly consists of older animals due to a breeding stop, is expected to be integrated into another enclosure, possibly together with the fallow deer. This would free up space for a new species, with alpacas among the options being considered, though no final decision has been made.
Sketches for the project show a redesigned enclosure with tunnels and changes in elevation, allowing visitors to walk through the area while remaining separated from the animals. “This creates new perspectives for visitors and a more stimulating environment for the animals, who can observe people from above,” said Meyers.
Anne Meyers (left) and Tommasino Favaro (right) hope that the work can be completed in two to three years. © Photo credit: Eva Krins
Technically, the first phase will involve relocating sewer and electrical infrastructure near the tree house café. According to Tommasino Favaro from the city’s technical services, this preliminary work is scheduled for spring, when visitor numbers are lower. Completion of the full project is expected within two to three years. The plans are currently at “avant-project” stage, meaning adjustments are still possible.
The existing tree house café opened in 2017, followed by the first accommodation unit in 2018. Since 2020, the three existing tree houses have recorded around 3,700 overnight stays, mainly from families, grandparents with grandchildren, couples, and school groups. All units are fully equipped with sanitary facilities and are often booked well in advance, especially during weekends and school holidays.
The three new tree houses will largely mirror the existing ones, though one will be designed to accommodate guests with dogs, responding to high demand. Each tree house is themed around a fictional character linked to a favourite animal in the park, and three new fictional residents will be introduced, though their identities remain under wraps.
Rodent residents
Another possible development is a new enclosure for a rodent species not yet represented in the park, to be built on the site of the former main entrance. This, too, could be reflected in the storytelling around the new tree house residents.
While the zoo team has so far had limited involvement in the campsite project, Meyers and Favaro are confident that coordination between the two city-led developments will improve, ensuring a harmonious coexistence of campers, tree house guests, and park visitors.
Practical information
The Escher Déierepark is accessible free of charge around the clock, seven days a week. As there are hardly any parking spaces on site, we recommend walking up via the Dieswee or the passerelle at Esch’s main station.
In addition, the free Gaalgebus shuttle service connects the bus station with the Déierepark. Reservations for the tree house hotel can be made at the hotel reception in the park or via the website bamhaiser.esch.lu. Further information about the animal park can be found at deierepark.esch.lu.
(This article was first published by the Luxemburger Wort. Translated using AI, edited by Lucrezia Reale)