In its latest June issue, EXZELLENZ magazine, published by the MEDIAHUIS group, took a stroll through the Parc de la Cloche d'Or, one year after its inauguration. An opportunity to interview the main people involved. Meet Océane Blanpetit and the Griffe family, enthusiasts of Luxembourg City's largest park (17 Ha).
Right in the heart of the bustling Cloche d'Or district in the south of Luxembourg City, Parc de Gasperich unfurls like a lush green bower of tranquility. At 16.6 hectares, the capital's largest park, this green lung has quickly found its place at the heart of the urban bustle and in the routines of local residents. Would we dare compare it to New York's Central Park? Absolutely! Conceived as an antidote to galloping urbanization, Parc de Gasperich has established itself as a place where residents can take advantage of every opportunity: a sunny break for employees, a release valve for sports enthusiasts or a safe, playful environment for the whole family to enjoy. Parc de Gasperich combines a number of assets, offering residents an open-air, rejuvenating space that has nothing to envy its American counterpart.
Is it important for you to have access to a corner of nature?
Yes, totally. I'm quite sporty by nature, and I especially like to work out early in the morning, before going to the office. This little routine is essential for my balance and well-being. Several times a week, I get up at 5 a.m. and head to the Parc de Gasperich for a running session. Not only is the setting very pleasant - you'd never imagine you were in the middle of the city - but I also feel totally safe there. Sometimes I start my workout with a run and continue at the nearby gym; sometimes it's the other way round. At other times, I'll do a longer run and then a series of laps: it's great to be able to do it all in the same place!
Do you visit the park on other occasions?
Yes, and even more so since the fine weather has finally returned. I come here on Sundays to get some fresh air and take a walk. It's a very friendly place, where you can meet families and friends. It's a real blessing to have a park like this so close to home!
ANASTASIA AND BENOIT GRIFFE
What made you decide to settle in the Cloche d'or district?We're from Paris and moved to Luxembourg three years ago. We first settled in Cessange, then decided to move to Cloche d'Or, mainly because of its proximity to the Lycée Vauban, and because my company's offices were located there. We liked it right away, with its proximity to shops and easy access to the town center. We're looking forward to the imminent arrival of the streetcar in the area. And then, for the past year, the opening of Parc de Gasperich, which has given rhythm to our family life. We have two children, aged 3 and 6: it's great to have a place like this to get some fresh air after school or at weekends.
I imagine your children are particularly enthusiastic when you suggest a trip to the playground?
Totally! They're crazy about it, every time! It has to be said that it has been particularly well laid out: there are games for all ages, and the whole site is well secured. People also come for the park itself, especially on Sundays, to take a stroll. The kids get on their scooters and we follow on foot. It takes us about fifteen minutes to go round the park, which is just perfect for children of this age. They also like to stop off at the pond and watch the ducks. In summer, we often go there for picnics, it's great fun; and we run into all the locals, neighbors, sometimes colleagues. The only drawback? The trees are still a bit young and don't provide enough shade!
Do you go to the park on other occasions than with your children?
Of course, my work is nearby. Whenever the weather's nice, we meet there with our colleagues to have lunch on a bench and fill up on vitamin D! It's funny, because everyone in the neighborhood does the same thing. In less than a year, this park has truly become the nerve center of the Cloche d'or!
Do you feel safe in this park?
I confess I've never asked myself the question, so I'm guessing the answer is yes!
