Luxembourg, one of Europe's smallest countries, might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a sustainable trip. Yet this green, hilly country surprises with an impressive array of nature, culture and eco-friendly initiatives. In this guide, we take you through some of the country's great spots. With a focus on green transport, local hotspots and special accommodations.
Free public transport throughout Luxembourg - Travel without emissions
Luxembourg is the first country in the world to offer completely free public transport. Buses, trains and trams are accessible free of charge to residents and tourists alike. This not only makes it easy to get around without a car, it also encourages environmentally friendly travel behaviour. The infrastructure is excellent: trains take you from the capital to almost every corner of the country within an hour. And buses connect even the most remote villages. An ideal way to explore the Grand Duchy in a relaxed and sustainable way.
Discover Vianden and its surroundings
Vianden, located in the north of Luxembourg, is a pearl for those who love peace, greenery and medieval charm. We are happy to share three tips with you:
Hiking route between Vianden and Stolzembourg
1. Ourdall Promenade
Highly recommended is the Ourdall Promenade, an 8.5-kilometre hiking trail between Vianden and Stolzembourg. This trail takes you along the river Our, through wooded hills and picturesque villages. Along the way, you spot countless butterflies, birds and other local fauna. A true paradise for nature lovers.
70 Grand-Rue, 9410 Vianden, Luxembourg
2. Coffee at Collette Coffee Craft
After such a walk, you deserve a good cup of coffee. Stop at Collette Coffee Craft, an atmospheric café with a love of artisanal coffee. Think slow-drip, locally roasted beans and homemade cakes. The warm, minimalist décor and friendly atmosphere make this an ideal place to take a breather.
Mnt du Château, 9408 Vianden, Luxembourg
3. The castle of Vianden
No visit to Vianden is complete without a stop at the iconic Vianden Castle. This imposing structure towers high above the town and is one of the most beautiful castles in Europe. It has been beautifully restored and offers not only an impressive glimpse of the region's history, but also phenomenal views over the valley.
The region of Echternach
The region around Echternach, in the east of Luxembourg, is known as "Little Switzerland" because of its whimsical landscape. We are happy to take you around the area:
Hiking route of 112 kilometres
1. The Mullerthal Trail
An absolute must for nature lovers is the Mullerthal Trail. This is an award-winning hiking trail of no less than 112 kilometres, also known as Luxembourg's 'Little Switzerland'. The route winds through an enchanting landscape full of impressive rock formations, deep gorges and dense forests. Along the way, you pass, among others, the Huel Lee Cave, an impressive cave where millstones were once carved and which today exudes an air of mystery.
Not to be missed is the iconic Schiessentümpel, a fairytale waterfall with three streams crashing over rocks and meeting under a romantic stone bridge - the symbol of the region. Also special are the Gorges du Loup, a narrow, almost hidden gorge where you briefly imagine yourself in another world.
End your hike at the Kallektuffquell, a rare limestone spring that slowly forms tuff and creates a magical landscape of moss and dripping rocks. This route shows you Luxembourg at its most rugged and fairytale-like.
From Echternach to Ettelbuck
2. Cycle route along the River Sauer
For those who prefer to discover the region on two wheels, a bicycle tour along the River Sauer is highly recommended. The route is flat, well-signposted and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and charming villages. On the route, you will pass Castle and Ironworks Weilerbach.
24 Rue du Château, 6313 Beaufort, Luxembourg
3. Châteaux de Beaufort
Culture lovers will enjoy a visit to Châteaux de Beaufort. These castles - a medieval ruin and a Renaissance castle - are located in a wooded area and have a lot of history. Combine this with a walk through the surrounding forests and you have a perfectly sustainable day trip.
Tips for Luxembourg City
In Luxembourg's eponymous capital, you will find many hidden gems. We would like to list some of our favourites for you. From creative studios to places with tasty coffee.
3 Park Drai Eechelen, 1499 Clausen Luxembourg
1. Admire art at MUDAM
Start your visit at MUDAM, Luxembourg's Contemporary Art Museum. The building itself, designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, is already a work of art in itself. Inside, you'll find a changing array of contemporary art installations. Often with a social or ecological theme.
2 rue de la Fonderie, 1531 Luxembourg
2. Ceramic café Nordic Stella
Need a creative break? Then visit the Nordic Stella ceramics café , where you can paint your own tableware or artwork over a drink. A fun way to relax and make a sustainable souvenir. If you prefer to work with clay yourself. During a workshop you can learn the tricks.
26 Pl. Guillaume II, 1648 Ville-Haute Luxembourg
3. Vegan restaurant Beet
For a plant-based lunch or dinner, Beet is the place to be. This modern vegan restaurant serves colourful, nutritious dishes with a worldly twist. Everything is homemade, organic and often locally sourced. How about the Thai salad with rice noodles, peppers, spinach, mango and peanut-ginger dressing?
14 Rue de Strasbourg, 2560 Gare Luxembourg
4. Pizza at Partigiano Cucina & Bar
Prefer Italian? Then head to Partigiano Cucina & Bar, where they combine sustainable ingredients with authentic Italian recipes. Pizzas are baked in a wood-fired oven, and there is a lot of focus on seasonal produce. There are also several gluten-free options including the Rigatoni with pistachio and a cream of Parmesan cheese and Burrata. Sounds delicious right?
11 Av. de la Porte-Neuve, 2227 Ville-Haute Luxembourg
5. Coffee at Knopes Coffee
Catch up with an espresso or flat white at Knopes Coffee, a specialty coffee bar with a passion for sustainably roasted beans. Their minimalist design and commitment to quality make this a favourite spot among locals. Treat yourself extra with a delicious pastry from pastry chef Gaëlle Marot.
Special stays in Luxembourg
Those who want to spend a truly sustainable night in Luxembourg choose special places that respect the environment and embrace recycling.
1b Rue du Centenaire, 3475 Dudelange, Luxembourg
1. Floater in Dudelange
A unique option is Floater in Dudelange, a floating hut on a serene pond. The accommodation is off-grid, eco-friendly and offers pure tranquillity. This hiker's hut is made of steel and wood. The hut is almost a work of art in its surroundings. In the background is an old steel factory. This is where ore used to be processed from the surrounding mining areas.
Fond-de-Gras, 4567 Fond-de-Gras, Luxembourg
2. An old train wagon in Fond de Gras
Another special place to sleep is an old train wagon in Fond-de-Gras. This historically decorated wagon takes you back in time and is located in the middle of a former mining region that has now been transformed into a nature reserve and industrial heritage site. Here you literally sleep in the past, but with a green eye on the future. You can sleep as many as six people in the hiker's hut. In a wagon itself, a sauna has been built.
Luxembourg shows that sustainable travel does not have to be boring or complicated. On the contrary: it invites you to slow down, wonder and deepen. From free transport to green accommodation and conscious hotspots. So grab your walking shoes, your reusable water bottle and be surprised by this sustainable gem in the heart of Europe.
Love,
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