The Best Hiking Spots in Luxembourg

Continuing for 112 kilometers, the Mullerthal Trail winds through Luxembourg’s so-called ‘Little Switzerland’, famed for wooded highlands and rocky formations. Several trail routes can be found here, all within close proximity to beautiful canyons and unique stone formations. Routes one and three are great to see more of Luxembourg’s stream valleys and castles, whilst Route two covers an area around the commune of Echternach, Luxembourg’s oldest province. Although the tracks are usually hiked individually, they are connected well by a passage, and so movement between the three is easily possible.

Dotted throughout the region, Luxembourg’s Sandstone Cliffs are a must see when hiking in the Mullerthal Trail area. The breathtaking natural formations have clearly defined layers of sediment, allowing hikers to distinctly observe the differing colorful rock types, many of which date back thousands of years. In times past it was customary to build castles and forts on the cliffs, with their height proving invaluable for providing both a staunch protection from invaders and an unrivaled view of the area.

This established hiking route is characterized by beautiful wildflowers and untamed rocky landscapes. The natural wildlife found here includes many rare species of plants and animals, such as the orchid flower and the falcon bird of prey. The Schweineställe, a gorge measuring 300 meters long and 600 meters wide, and the Baroque Weilerback Castle, featuring stunning French-style gardens, are two hiking highlights on this trail. Felesenweg’s paths are occasionally steep, but with many stops available along the route, they are manageable even for inexperienced hikers.

Constructed sometime between the 11th and 14th centuries, Vianden Castle is one of the most beautiful remaining residences from the Romanesque period. Located in the north of Luxembourg, it served as the home of the counts of Vianden until the beginning of the 15th century. Restored in 1977, the castle is one of the largest historical buildings found West of the Rhine, and is an interesting historical site in which to hike. Easily reachable on foot, it is encompassed by stunning areas of green which provide a beautiful backdrop for the castle’s elaborately Gothic architecture.

The oldest recorded town in the country, Echternach is considered to be Luxembourg’s historical and cultural capital. And, as it is situated across many of Luxembourg’s popular hiking routes, it is a top spot for hikers to stop in when exploring the landscape. Founded in 609, it offers an array of exciting activities to entice the tourist, such as fishing, sailing, walking, cycling and more. Traversed by the river Sauer, the lake provides a space for boating and paddling, and events such as the e-lake party attract thousands of visitors during the summer months.