Esch-sur-Sûre

Esch-sur-Sûre combines a medieval atmosphere, impressive natural surroundings and a unique location on the waterfront. A place that immediately captivates visitors.

Esch-sur-Sûre is one of those places that stays in your memory. The village nestles in a narrow bend of the Sûre river and lies below the ruins of one of the oldest castles in the country. The surrounding landscape of Éislek dominates the scene – lots of water, lots of forest, lots of peace and quiet.

In the heart of the Upper Sûre Nature Park

The village is located in the centre of the Upper Sûre Nature Park, just a few minutes from the Upper Sûre lake, which covers an area of approximately 4 km² and is the largest in Luxembourg. Its history goes back a long way: as early as the 8th century, ‘Hesc’ appears in a document from the Echternach monastery. With the construction of the castle in 927, the village developed early on into a fortified settlement. The historical structure has remained visible to this day. The narrow streets, the slate houses and the location directly on the water give Esch-Sauer an appearance that has changed little since the Middle Ages.

From castle ruins to cloth factory

The ruins of Esch-sur-Sûre Castle rise above the village. The climb is short, and at the top visitors are rewarded with sweeping views over the rooftops, rocks and narrow valley.

Esch-sur-Sûre Castle was first mentioned in 927 and is considered one of the oldest castles in Luxembourg. It was built at a strategically important location above the Sûre and soon became the centre of a small domain. Over the centuries, the complex was expanded several times, but with the decline of feudalism, it lost its importance and gradually fell into disrepair. Today, the ruins are freely accessible and offer an impressive view over the narrow valley and the historic village centre. 

Not far from the castle hill, along the Sûre, is the former cloth factory, now the heart of the nature park centre. The building dates from the 18th century and has been carefully restored. Inside, an exhibition shows the various steps involved in traditional cloth production – from raw wool to finished fabric. The exhibition is complemented by information about the park's natural and cultural heritage. 

Hiking in a unique natural environment 

Esch-sur-Sûre is located in a landscape that is typical of north-western Luxembourg: wooded slopes, slate cliffs, small river valleys and open plateaus. Several hiking trails start in the village, ranging from short circular routes to longer trails through the Upper Sûre Nature Park.

One of the highlights is undoubtedly the Éislek Pad Esch-sur-Sûre. The relatively short 6.5 kilometres are deceptive, as the trail includes numerous metres of elevation gain. Hikers who climb the Kuelebierg are rewarded with an incredible view. Only from up here does it become clear how the village nestles into the horseshoe-shaped river bend. A panorama that amazes in every season!

Several local hiking trails, including some with less elevation gain, allow for further exploration in and around the medieval village.

Refreshments & accommodation

In the village and the surrounding area, visitors will find various restaurants, cafés and small establishments offering regional cuisine. Hotels, holiday apartments and guesthouses are available for longer stays.

In Esch-sur-Sûre and around the lake, there are also several campsites that are ideal for hikers, families and nature lovers alike. Their location right on the water makes them a good starting point for walks and activities in the park.