7 Reasons Instagram Loves Luxembourg

It’s one of Europe’s smallest nations, but Luxembourg certainly packs plenty of hashtag-worthy moments into its beautiful towns and countryside. The following are 7 reasons why Instagram can’t resist its charms…

Vianden

Image via iStock: PhotographerCW

Set on the scenic banks of Luxembourg’s River Our, Vianden has got the ‘real-life fairytale’ look down to a T. Take the chairlift to 440 metres above the town for the ultimate panoramic shot of the castle, the church, the cobbled old town and its surrounding woodland.

Little Switzerland

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The Mullerthal region, also known as ‘Little Switzerland’ owes its nickname to its hills, clean air and picture-perfect hiking trails, just like, you’ve guessed it, Switzerland. The three main trails all offer their own unique rewards. Route 1 takes hikers through rock, forest and meadow-filled landscapes. Route 2 tackles dramatic rock formations, while Route 3 combines streams, valleys and romantic castles.

Clervaux in Winter

What could be more Instagram-ready than a 15th century castle dusted with snow?  Looking for all the world like a backdrop from Frozen, the castle stands on a rocky outcrop in the valley of the Clerve River. No stranger to the camera lens, Clervaux Castle’s major claim to fame is that it is home to the UNESCO- protected collection of photos “The Family of Man”, by Luxembourg-born photographer Edward Steichen.

Cathedral of Notre Dame

Image via iStock: gionnixxx

With its unusual mix of gothic and Renaissance architecture, from the outside, Luxembourg’s Cathedral of Notre Dame is undeniably easy on the eye.  Step inside though and you’ll realise the beautiful stained glass windows dating from the 19th and 20th centuries are the real show-stoppers.

 

The Duck Race

Image via iStock: LeeYiuTung

Around 15,000 yellow rubber ducks bring the action each April when they battle it out in the annual Duck Race on the Petrusse River.  What started out as a quaint Luxembourg tradition has now become a major charity event, attracting huge crowds of spectators all along the route.  Cameras at the ready!

Christmas Markets

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Every December, the Place d’Armes, the Place de la Constitution and the Place de Paris  transform Luxembourg City into a twinkling, photo-friendly winter wonderland. For a whole month, festive log cabins take over the main square, laden with traditional toys, sweets and crafts. Steaming cups of Glühwäin(mulled wine), plus tasty local street-food such as Thüringer (Luxembourgish sausages) and Gromperekichelcher (potato pancakes) provide the perfect cold weather fuel.
 

Bourscheid Castle

Image via iStock: Perszing1982

Not only is Bourscheid Castle the largest castle in Luxembourg but it’s also got a pretty special trick up its sleeve.  Visit at night and you’ll be privy to the sight of  its turrets and towers glowing majestically over the valley of the River Sûre. This one was made for #picoftheday.

 

Flights to Luxembourg

 

- Fiona Hilliard