7 Best Outdoor Activities in Luxembourg: The Ultimate Guide

For those of us who’ve called Luxembourg home (or anyone planning a visit), there’s no shortage of outdoor activities in Luxembourg to explore. This country may be compact, but it packs a surprising punch when it comes to outdoor adventure, from scenic hiking trails winding through forests to lakes that are perfect for paddling.

And yes, even scuba diving. While we don’t have an ocean, Luxembourg’s lakes offer exciting diving opportunities for those craving underwater exploration.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking to unwind in nature, this guide will walk you through the very best outdoor activities in Luxembourg. Read on for my top picks to dive, hike, paddle, and experience Luxembourg’s natural beauty.

1. Hiking in Luxembourg

Mullerthal Trail (Little Switzerland)

The Mullerthal Trail, affectionately known as “Little Switzerland,” spans 112 kilometers and is divided into three sections. Each section offers a unique hiking experience through lush forests, striking rock formations, and charming villages. It’s like Switzerland but with fewer yodels and more manageable terrain!

Tips:

• Trail Sections: Route 1 explores rock formations and caves (perfect for pretending you’re in a fantasy novel), Route 2 provides panoramic views (get those selfies ready), and Route 3 showcases cultural villages (where you can refuel with local treats).
• Equipment: Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring a map or GPS device. A walking stick can also help navigate the rocky terrain—unless you’re channeling your inner mountain goat.
• Preparation: Pack enough water and snacks. Trust me, you don’t want to end up bartering trail mix for a sip of someone else’s water halfway through the hike.

Mullerthal’s iconic wooden bridge | Cedric Letsch | Unsplash

Escapardenne Eislek Trail

The Escapardenne Eislek Trail stretches 106 kilometers from Kautenbach, Luxembourg, to La Roche-en-Ardenne, Belgium. It offers a challenging trek through the Ardennes with rewarding scenic views. Think of it as a nature lover’s version of a marathon, but with more trees and fewer blisters (hopefully).

Tips:

• Planning: This trail is ideal for a multi-day hike. Plan your overnight stays in advance, whether camping or staying in inns. No one wants to be the person stuck asking for directions to the nearest bed-and-breakfast at dusk.
• Trail Navigation: Use a detailed trail map or GPS. Download offline maps to avoid that awkward moment when your phone battery dies right before a critical turn.
• Weather Gear: Be prepared for varying weather conditions. Pack rain gear and layers—you never know when Luxembourg will decide to shower you with some unexpected liquid sunshine.

Ardennes Region Trails

The Ardennes region offers various shorter hiking trails, such as the Sentier du Nord and the Sentier de l’Our, perfect for day hikes. These trails are excellent examples of outdoor activities in Luxembourg for those who want a taste of adventure but also need to be back in time for dinner.

Tips:

• Trail Selection: Choose trails based on your desired distance and difficulty. Many trails offer loop routes, which are convenient for day hikes without backtracking. Unless you enjoy the thrill of “Didn’t I pass that tree already?” moments.
• Local Maps: Obtain local trail maps from nearby tourist offices. These often include detailed information on trailheads, scenic viewpoints, and rest areas. Maps: because wandering aimlessly is only fun in theory.
• Parking: Some trailheads have limited parking. Arrive early or use public transportation where available to start your hike without hassle. No one wants to start a relaxing hike with a parking lot showdown.

2. Cycling Adventures

Alzette Cycle Path

The Alzette Cycle Path runs from Luxembourg City to Mersch, offering a scenic ride along the Alzette River through parks and villages. Perfect for those who enjoy a good mix of urban charm and countryside serenity—plus, you get to say you cycled through the capital.

Tips:

• Bike Rentals: If you don’t have your own bike, consider renting one from local shops in Luxembourg City. Choose a bike that suits the terrain, such as a hybrid or touring bike for mixed paths. Make sure it has a comfy seat—your posterior will thank you.
• Stops and Facilities: Plan to stop at points of interest like the parks in Mersch. Carry a lock for your bike to secure it while exploring these areas. Nothing ruins a day faster than coming back to find your bike has been borrowed indefinitely.
• Route Navigation: Use a cycling app or GPS to follow the path. Check for any temporary route changes or closures before you set out, unless you enjoy the excitement of impromptu detours through farmer’s fields.

PC 15 Luxembourg-Metz

For those craving a cross-border ride, the PC 15 route from Luxembourg City to Metz, France, offers picturesque countryside and charming towns. This route is a stellar part of outdoor activities in Luxembourg, offering a blend of dedicated cycle paths and scenic rural roads. You see, you get the thrill of international travel with the added bonus of not needing a plane ticket!

Tips:

• Cross-Border Considerations: Bring your ID or passport for border crossing. There’s no Schengen Area story more embarrassing than being turned back because you left your passport on the kitchen counter.
• Provisions: Stock up on snacks and water before leaving Luxembourg City, as facilities can be limited along rural sections of the route. Think “hydrated adventurer” not “dehydrated explorer.”
• Rest Stops: Identify rest areas in advance where you can take breaks, particularly in small towns like Schengen and Remich. You’ll want a comfy spot to enjoy that croissant you picked up earlier.

Countryside Routes

Luxembourg’s countryside offers serene cycling routes that let you escape into nature’s embrace. These routes meander through scenic villages, vineyards, and rolling hills, perfect for a relaxing ride and exploration of local life. Such routes are quintessential examples of outdoor activities in Luxembourg.

Tips:

• Route Planning: Choose routes that match your cycling ability and interests, such as those through wine regions for a mix of scenery and local culture. Just remember: wine tasting and cycling—do it responsibly!
• Cycling Maps: Obtain detailed cycling maps from local tourist offices, which often highlight scenic routes and notable stops. Maps: not just for navigation but also for finding those hidden gem coffee shops.
• Safety Gear: Wear reflective gear and use bike lights, especially if cycling through rural areas with limited lighting. Helmets are recommended for safety (and for impressing onlookers with your commitment to not hitting your head).

3. Kayaking and Canoeing

Rivers: Sûre and Moselle

The rivers Sûre and Moselle offer excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, with calm waters and beautiful landscapes. These rivers provide a peaceful escape with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the surrounding nature. They’re perfect for anyone looking to dive into outdoor activities in Luxembourg—literally!

Tips:

• Launch Points: Popular launch spots include Echternach and Wasserbillig. For the Sûre River, start your journey from Dillingen for a scenic and enjoyable route. This way you get the perfect blend of tranquility and scenic beauty without the hustle.
• Dillingen Route: The Dillingen route on the Sûre River is ideal for a day paddle, featuring serene waters and picturesque surroundings. Plan a stop at Reisdorf for a rest and enjoy the beautiful riverbanks. And remember, paddling does count as arm day.
• Equipment Rental: Rent kayaks or canoes from providers near launch points. Ensure the rental includes essential safety gear like life jackets and paddles. Nobody wants a Titanic reenactment—safety first!
• Water Conditions: Check the river conditions and weather forecast before heading out. Avoid paddling during high water or strong currents for safety. You’re here for a relaxing day, not a white-water adventure.

Upper Sûre Lake

Upper Sûre Lake provides a peaceful paddling experience, surrounded by rolling hills and forests. This lake is ideal for those looking to enjoy a quiet day on the water, with opportunities for picnicking and wildlife watching. A perfect spot for experiencing outdoor activities in Luxembourg in a calm and serene setting.

Tips:

• Rental Services: Use local rental services at the lake for kayaks and canoes. They often provide briefings on lake conditions and safety. Always good to know where not to paddle if you’d rather not become intimately acquainted with a duck.
• Facilities: Take advantage of picnic areas and hiking trails around the lake for a full day of outdoor activities. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the shore—just watch out for the seagulls; they’re quicker than they look.
• Wildlife Viewing: Paddle quietly near the shore to spot herons, ducks, and other wildlife. Binoculars can enhance your viewing experience. Remember, no sudden movements—you’re not auditioning for a nature documentary.

Upper Sûre Lake | Cedric Letsch | Unsplash

4. Scuba Diving

Remerschen Lake

Remerschen Lake provides a unique diving experience with interesting underwater features. While the visibility might not match tropical reefs, it’s a refreshing alternative for divers in landlocked Luxembourg. Plus, think of all the money you’re saving on airfare!

Tips:

• Visibility: Check local diving reports for current visibility conditions. Calm weather typically provides the best underwater visibility. And remember, if you can’t see your own hand, it’s probably not the best diving day.
• Permits and Certification: Ensure you have the necessary diving certification and permits. Local dive shops or clubs can provide information on any required paperwork. Nothing worse than being ready to dive but stuck on paperwork duty.
• Diving Services: Use local dive shops or clubs for equipment rental and guided dives. They offer valuable insights into the best diving spots and underwater features to explore. Plus, they can point out where the local underwater “celebrities” hang out.

Esch-sur-Sûre Reservoir

Esch-sur-Sûre offers a diverse underwater environment for divers, with a mix of natural and man-made features. While you won’t find the vibrant corals of the Caribbean, diving here gives you a unique perspective on Luxembourg’s submerged landscapes. 

Tips:

• Dive Planning: Plan your dive around the best times for visibility, typically early morning when the water is calm. Avoid diving after heavy rains, which can reduce visibility. And honestly, who wants to dive in water that looks like soup?
• Safety Protocols: Always dive with a buddy and adhere to safety protocols. Check your equipment thoroughly before diving to ensure it is in good working condition. Dive gear is one area where the “it’s fine” approach really doesn’t cut it.
• Underwater Features: Explore submerged structures and natural rock formations. Use a dive torch to navigate and highlight features in low-visibility areas. Just imagine you’re on an underwater treasure hunt—without the sharks.

5. Fishing

Moselle River

The Moselle River is a top spot for fishing, offering a variety of fish and picturesque fishing spots. The river’s calm waters and beautiful surroundings provide a relaxing environment for anglers, even if the waters can sometimes be a bit murky.

Fishing on the Moselle is a classic example of outdoor activities in Luxembourg where patience is key, but the rewards are worth it.

Tips:

• Licensing: Obtain a fishing license from local authorities. Licenses are required and can often be purchased online or at fishing shops. Because “I didn’t know I needed a license” won’t fly with the fish police.
• Fishing Spots: Focus on known fishing areas near Remich and Wasserbillig. These spots are popular for their abundance of pike, perch, and trout. Look for spots where locals fish—if they’re there, it’s probably good.
• Gear: Bring your own fishing gear or rent from local shops. Consider using lures or bait specific to the types of fish in the Moselle for better results. And maybe pack a book—sometimes the fish like to keep you waiting.

Echternach Lake

Echternach Lake provides a family-friendly fishing environment with accessible fishing spots and amenities. The lake’s calm waters might make fish spotting a challenge, but it adds to the thrill of the catch and the overall experience.

Tips:

• Fishing Areas: Use designated fishing areas around the lake. These areas are typically well-maintained and offer easy access to the water. Because no one wants to wrestle with a fish and a bramble bush at the same time.
• Catch Limits: Be aware of catch limits and regulations. Follow local guidelines to ensure sustainable fishing practices. Overfishing is a no-no—think of the future fishers!
• Facilities: Take advantage of the picnic areas and walking paths around the lake. Combine fishing with a family day out by the water. Pack some snacks—because waiting for a bite is much better with a sandwich.

Esch-sur-Sûre Reservoir

The Esch-sur-Sûre Reservoir is known for its abundant fish population and scenic fishing spots. While the water may not be the clearest, it’s the anticipation of what lies beneath that keeps us coming back! The reservoir’s picturesque setting makes it a popular spot for anglers looking to relax and enjoy nature.

Tips:

• Seasonal Fishing: The best fishing times vary with the season, so check local advice for optimal fishing periods. There’s nothing worse than casting your line during fish nap time.
• Regulations: Follow all fishing regulations and guidelines to protect the ecosystem. Think of it as being a responsible guest in the fish’s living room.
• Local Knowledge: Chat with local anglers to get tips on the best spots and techniques. They’ve probably got a few good fish stories and some insider secrets.

6. Ziplining and Tirolien

Luxembourg offers thrilling ziplining experiences in beautiful natural settings. One notable location is the adventure park in Vianden, where you can soar through the trees and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. 

Ziplining here is not only exhilarating but also provides a unique way to experience Luxembourg’s natural beauty from a bird’s-eye view. It’s a fantastic addition to the diverse outdoor activities in Luxembourg.

Tips:

• Safety Gear: Always wear the provided safety gear and follow the instructor’s guidelines. If you’re tempted to argue with gravity, remember: it always wins.
• Booking: Book your ziplining session in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. No one likes a “Sorry, we’re full” sign when they’re all geared up.
• Physical Requirements: Ensure you meet the physical requirements for ziplining activities. Because the last thing you want is to get stuck halfway through and become an impromptu tree ornament.

7. Sightseeing and Nature Exploration

Ardennes Forests

The Ardennes forests are a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the woods. These forests provide a lush, green escape with trails suitable for all levels of hikers. Exploring these forests is one of the most tranquil outdoor activities in Luxembourg.

Tips:

• Trail Options: Choose from a variety of trails suited to different levels of difficulty and interests. Some trails offer loop routes for easy navigation. Perfect for those who are directionally challenged.
• Wildlife: Be respectful of wildlife and observe from a distance. Early morning or late afternoon hikes increase your chances of wildlife sightings. Just don’t get too close—we’re observing, not starring in “The Jungle Book.”
• Seasonal Changes: The forests offer different experiences in each season, from vibrant spring blooms to the peaceful silence of winter. Dress appropriately for the season to enjoy your hike comfortably. You want to be “prepared hiker” not “seasonal fashion victim.”

Mullerthal Rock Formations

The Mullerthal region is famous for its unique rock formations, which create dramatic landscapes perfect for exploration and photography. These formations, carved by natural forces over millennia, offer an intriguing glimpse into the region’s geological history. They represent some of the most dramatic outdoor activities in Luxembourg for photography enthusiasts.

Tips:

• Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning rock formations and natural scenery. Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best conditions for photography. And remember, selfies on cliffs are cool, but safety first!
• Exploration: Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain. Some areas may require light climbing, so be cautious and ensure you have a good grip. This isn’t the place for your favorite flip-flops.
• Respect: Follow marked trails and avoid climbing on sensitive rock formations to preserve the area. Stick to designated paths to minimize your impact on the environment. Leave only footprints, take only photos—and maybe a bit of rock envy.

Vineyards of the Moselle Valley

The Moselle Valley is known for its vineyards, offering opportunities for wine tasting, leisurely walks, and stunning views of the river valley. The vineyards are a testament to the region’s rich winemaking tradition and provide a scenic backdrop for a relaxing day out.

Tips:

• Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries for tastings and tours to learn about the wine-making process. Many wineries offer guided tours that include wine tastings and insights into the history of the vineyard. Sip, don’t gulp—you want to remember the flavors, not just the fun.
• Walking Trails: Take advantage of walking trails that meander through the vineyards and offer panoramic views. Combine a walk with stops at various wineries for a comprehensive experience. Walking off the wine means more room for more wine.
• Seasonal Visits: Autumn is a great time to visit, as the vineyards are bustling with the grape harvest. Check for local wine festivals or events that may coincide with your visit for an added cultural experience. Because what’s better than wine? More wine!

Looking for even more ways to explore Luxembourg? From guided walking tours to unique local experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Wrap-Up

Having lived in Luxembourg for a decade, I can tell you—there’s plenty to do here if you know where to look.

This small country is packed with outdoor adventures waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s hiking the winding trails of Mullerthal, cycling through scenic countryside, paddling on peaceful lakes, climbing rock faces, diving into freshwater depths, fishing in quiet spots, zip-lining through the treetops, or wandering lush vineyards, Luxembourg has something for every explorer willing to seek it out.

So, lace up those boots and dive into the natural beauty this place has to offer—adventure awaits!