Mullerthal, the paradisiacal “little Switzerland” of Luxembourg

Compared to the Swiss country for the extraordinary beauty of its hills, the Mullerthal region is also home to the oldest city in Luxembourg

Source: iStock

In eastern Luxembourg, the region of Müllerthal – which takes its name from a small village, surrounded by a paradisiacal context – is nicknamed “little Switzerland“. And everyone should give themselves the chance to explore it.

Mullerthal, or Mëllerdall come to Luxemburgo la chiamano, it has earned the nickname "little Switzerland" for its hilly landscapes, which are reminiscent of the Swiss country. But above all, this region is a unique biotope, characterized by captivating and surprising rock formations. What are they due to? To a unique composition of rock and soil erosion, which has led to the creation of a landscape that - in Europe - is truly a small paradise.

The capital of the Mullerthal region is Echternach, the oldest city in Luxembourg located on the border with Germany. With just over 4000 inhabitants, the town center develops around the Abbey, founded by the English San Benedettino monk San Villibrordor, who arrived in Luxembourg after becoming mayor of Utrecht and to whom the town dedicates a procession on the Tuesday after Pentecost.

Also worth a visit there Villa Romana, discovered only in 1975 and once part of the diocese of Trier, which was given to Villibrordo by Irmina, daughter of Dagobert II (king of the Franks). Echternach remained for a long time under the control of Charlemagne and his descendants and – although the buildings built by Saint Willibrord were set on fire – the Romanesque basilica with its symmetrical towers remains, and still houses the tomb of the saint today.

But it is, the Mullerthal, above all the ideal place to organize trekking in nature: the Mullerthal Trail allows you to walk along 112 kilometers of trails, among rock formations with difficult names (Piteschkummer, Geyerslay, Hohllay), fields and forests in an almost intact naturalistic context. But, in addition to challenging hikes, the region also offers a network of pleasant walks amidst breathtaking views. For family trips, also suitable for children.

Without forgetting the food and wine: the cuisine of the Mullerthal is all a triumph of cheeses, honey and liqueurs, to be purchased directly from producers in small markets. For a tasty break, after a full immersion in nature.