Discover Benelux | Culture | Top Benelux Destinations
THE LUXEMBOURG ARDENNES
Naturally yours TEXT & PHOTO: REGIONAL TOURISM OFFICE OF THE LUXEMBOURG ARDENNES
Endless forests, deep river valleys, charming villages and majestic castles… what sounds like the setting for a fairy tale is actually the description of the Luxembourg Ardennes, the rural northern part of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The main asset of the Ardennes is without a doubt its unspoilt nature. Numerous hiking and cycling routes meander through the green landscapes and provide the perfect way to explore the region’s natural beauty. Hiking enthusiasts can choose between cross-border, national, local and thematic trails. Exceptional hiking experiences are waiting for them along the high-quality trails in the Naturwanderpark Delux and along the long-distance Escapardenne trail. The Luxembourg 66 | Issue 27 | March 2016
Ardennes also offers an extensive network of cycle paths. In addition to the quiet country streets, the numerous signposted cycle paths and mountain bike trails beg to be discovered on two wheels. On the Vennbahn, one of Europe’s longest converted railway embankment bike tracks, one can even cycle from northern Luxembourg through Belgium to Germany. The Ardennes’ force of attraction does not only reside in their natural assets. The region is also proud of its history, local traditions and rich cultural heritage. It was deeply marked by the Battle of the Bulge in 1944-1945, which many memorials bear witness to today. The Museums of the Battle of the Bulge in Clervaux and Wiltz, as well as the National Museum of Military History in Diekirch,
are dedicated to documenting the history of the fight. To travel even further back in time, you should visit the city of Vianden; the narrow streets, ramparts with watchtowers and the impressive castle will send you right back to the Middle Ages. A must-see is also the famous photographic exhibition The Family of Man, which was recorded in the UNESCO Memory of the World programme, located in the perfectly restored Castle of Clervaux. Whether you opt for a walk through the forests, a bike trip, a visit to a museum or a tour of the region’s magnificent castles, the Luxembourg Ardennes will enchant you. www.ardennes-lux.lu