Moselle, the wine-growing region with a European heart
The Moselle region, known as d'Musel by Luxembourgers, lies in the east of Luxembourg. It takes its name from the river that forms the natural border between Luxembourg and Germany. The river is not a dividing line; it is an area of union between two neighbouring countries that reflects the region's European character. With its mild climate, the Moselle valley also has a long tradition of wine production and offers a wide range of wine-related activities.
Moselle: the perfect blend of wine and European spirit
Across the 42 km that the Moselle river flows through from Schengen to Wasserbillig, it crafted a hilly landscape, cut out of limestone, representing an ideal birthplace for viticulture. In fact, the valley has always been known for its wine-making tradition: the Celts, Gauls and then the Romans already grew vines! The Moselle vineyards underwent significant development and diversification in the 20th century, especially with the introduction of the Appellation d'origine contrôlée - Moselle luxembourgeoise (protected designation of origin). The region is particularly renowned for the production of white wines, both still and sparkling. It is also known for its regional specialities, such as the late-harvested wine, the straw wine and the ice wine.
The region also has a decidedly European flavour. Schengen is a small village on the Moselle that has played a key role in the creation of Europe as we know it today. When France, Germany and the Benelux countries signed a first agreement in Schengen in 1985, they committed to abolishing controls at their internal borders. The idea took hold and was gradually expanded to the 27 countries that currently make up the Schengen Area.
How to explore the Moselle region
Wine tourism: vineyard hikes, tastings and festivals
The principle behind the guided vineyard hikes offered by the regional Tourist Information Centre is to combine nature walks with wine tasting. Here is a small selection:
- From earth to glass. This is a walk to learn about the geology and history of wine. The 5km route is suitable for prams. Adults are treated to a wine tasting and children to a glass of grape juice after the walk.
- The harvest atmosphere. This walk takes place during the grape harvest, when the vineyards are at their most spectacular. At the end of the walk, you can sample the typical Fiederwäissen wine, served with an onion tart. The route is 4.5km long.
- Kanecher Wéngertsbierg Tour. This route showcases Luxembourg's remarkable wine-producing heritage. You will see traces of historic vineyards and learn about different ways of using the land and the importance of dry-stone walls. After the 5km walk, you will have the opportunity to sample some still or sparkling wine.
You can also go on hikes on your own or as a family and book a tasting with one of the many wine producers dotted across the region.
The Moselle valley hosts several traditional wine-themed events. These include:
- Grape and Wine Festivals This takes place in Grevenmacher on the second weekend in September and features fireworks, parading bands, a traditional procession and a special vintage in honour of the Wine Queen.
- Hunnefeier. This event, whose name literally means "rooster festival", takes place in Schengen to mark the end of the annual grape harvest. A little anecdote: the festival derives its name from the fact that in the past, the winegrower who finished harvesting his vines first received a rooster as a prize!
- Wine Taste Enjoy Over Pentecost, wine growers, wineries and distilleries, together with participating museums and nature conservation centres, open up their cellars, gardens and outdoor seating areas for a wine-themed weekend.
Discovering culture and history: from the Romans to the European Union
The Moselle has a wealth of cultural heritage linked to its history, which you can learn about by visiting historical sites and museums, including:
- The Dalheim Gallo-Roman site. This "vicus", the Latin name for a village or district, is located on the Roman road from Trier to Metz. A publication aimed at the general public is available from the National Institute of Archaeological Research.
- Wormer Koeppchen. The Koeppchen, one of the best-known vineyards in the country, features a chapel built in 1925 in honour of Saint Donatus, patron saint of the Wormeldange vineyards, who is believed to offer protection against lightning, thunder, hail, wind and fire.
- Schengen Agreement Monument and European Museum Schengen. The monument on the banks of the Moselle, opposite the museum, traces the history of the European Union. The museum tells the story of the early days and development of the Schengen Agreements. It is currently closed for renovation.
Explore nature: on foot, by bike... and on the water
Although the Moselle valley is inevitably dominated by vines, the region has a surprising variety of natural landscapes, which can be explored on foot or by bike. Here are some ideas:
- The three dream loops or Traumschleifen – Manternacher Fiels, Palmberg Ahn wine and nature trail and Schengen without borders – are some of the region's best hiking routes. These are three certified premium trails – routes of outstanding quality that are regularly maintained.
- The region has a variety of cycle routes, ranging from peaceful family outings along the Moselle to mountain bike trails. There's something for everyone and routes to suit all abilities.
Water sports enthusiasts will also enjoy visiting the region in summer:
- Explore the landscapes of the Moselle valley by canoe.
- Go for a swim or enjoy a range of other activities at Remerschen lakes. The Haff Réimech protected nature area near the lakes is a wonderful spot for bird watchers. With discovery trails and several observation posts, this is the perfect place to round off the day.
Take the time to relax
With a mild climate all year round and extensive facilities and activities, the Moselle is also the perfect place to come and relax. Here are some ideas:
- Enjoy the sunshine, a glass of sparkling wine in hand, on board the Princesse Marie-Astrid, one of the most iconic pleasure boats on the Moselle. Watch the vineyards, picturesque villages and rolling hills glide by as you sit back and relax. If you want to top off the experience with a gentle walk, the Remich comfort hiking trail is perfect.
- Indulge in a spa day at Mondorf Domaine Thermal, an institution in Luxembourg and the country's only thermal spring.
Come and visit the Moselle, a wonderfully varied region without borders!
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