New regulations have come into force in the Grand Duchy today, Friday 15 April 2016, regarding the practice of wall climbing.

In Luxembourg, the practice of rock climbing is only permitted at the cliffs at Wanterbaach, located in the municipality of Berdorf. Following consultation between the Fédération luxembourgeoise d'escalade de randonnée sportive et d'alpinisme (Flera), the municipality of Berdorf and the Ministry of Sports, a Grand Ducal Regulation was developed as part of the practical framework for climbing in order to safeguard the natural cliffs.

The individual permit system has been abolished, reducing administrative burdens for site users. From now on, only climbers affiliated with an international climbing federation (UIAA and IFSC) are allowed to practice climbing at the Wanterbaach site. The Environment Department reported that the aim is to empower users and ensure that the practice of climbing is in compliance with nature.

As of 15 April 2016, the new regulation states:

- For reasons related to the protection of nature and heritage, the use of all forms of nails as well as the exit by the plateau are prohibited, magnesia powder should be used sparingly and any visual trace of the passage removed;
- All kinds of commercial climbing activity are prohibited;
- Agents charged wit reporting infringements may compel any climber to leave in the event of non-compliance with these regulations;
- The Minister of the Environment may temporarily prohibit the pratice of climbing for reasons relating to environmental protection;
- Climbing can be exercised individually or with a maximum of six climbers.

For additional information, contact Flera at www.flera.lu or the Regional Tourist Office of the Mullerthal Region at +352 72 04 57. Flera is holding an information session at 19:00 on Friday 15 April 2016 at the premises of COSL, meeting room 7, 3 route d'Arlon in Strassen.

 

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