Route 1 of the Mullerthal Trail is approximately 36 kilometres. The trail is forming a loop that begins and ends in Echternach. This trail is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including dense beech and oak forests, open meadows and large sandstone rock formations. The path meanders through picturesque villages such as Rosport and Moersdorf. As hiker you will enjoy both natural beauty and cultural experiences. During the trail you walk through several villages and past historical landmarks.
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Echternach
Echternach is established in 698 by the Anglo-Saxon missionary Saint Willibrord. It is Luxembourg’s oldest town. The Benedictine Abbey he founded became a renowned centre for culture and Christianization in Europe. The scriptorium was celebrated for producing illuminated manuscripts during the 10th and 11th centuries. The town has a few significant architectural landmarks, including the Roman Villa, the ancient Peter and Paul parish church with Merovingian, Gothic and Romanesque elements, and the Roman Basilica rebuilt after World War II. Echternach’s cultural heritage is further highlighted by the annual Dancing Procession on Whit Tuesday, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Rosport
Rosport is situated along the Sauer River and has roots tracing back to Roman times. There are archaeological finds such as a bathhouse and villas in and around Rosport. Historically, Rosport was under the possession of the Benedictine nuns of Oeren–St. Irminen in Trier. A notable figure from Rosport is Henri Tudor, the inventor of the practical lead-acid battery. His former residence, Rosport Castle is now the Tudor Museum. The museum is dedicated to his contributions of electrical engineering.
Kapell Giischterklaus
The Giischterklaus chapel is located above the Sauer Valley. It is Luxembourg’s oldest pilgrimage site. The chapel was first documented in 1329. The chapel’s Romanesque tower suggests origins in the 11th or 12th century. Pilgrims were attracted to the site to honour the “Muttergottes von der Hieselterheck,” a 13th century wooden statue of the Virgin Mary. The chapel’s interior has Baroque statues from the 18th century. The surrounding grounds are decorated with historic gravestones and crosses. In combination with the breathtaking view of the valley the place gives away a serene atmosphere.
Moesdorf
Moesdorf is located along the Sauer River and directly opposite the German village of Metzdorf. The town has been inhabited since Celtic and Frankish times, as archaeological discoveries confirm. The village was first mentioned in the 13th century under the name “Mersdorph.” Throughout the Middle Ages, it was under the ownership of the Reichsabtei St. Maximin and the Reichsabtei Echternach. A prominent landmark is the parish church of St. Martin. The church has a Romanesque tower from the 11th or 12th century. The nave is constructed in 1852 based on designs by Antoine Hartmann.
Herborn
The area around Herborn has been inhabited since Roman times. A Roman mosaic was discovered around 1900. The village was first documented in 1225 under the name “Herburen.” Later the town was referred to as “Herburn” in 1413 and “Herborn” in 1537 . A notable landmark in Herborn is the Catholic parish church of St. James (St. Jakobus). It is a neo-Romanesque structure from the 19th century. West of the village is the Hierberbësch nature reserve. Hiking trails in the area have amazing panoramic views that change with the seasons.
Echternach am See
Echternach am See is also known as the Echternach Lake. It is a picturesque artificial lake located just outside the historic town of Echternach. The lake and surrounding park is an area of approximately 30 hectares. The lake was created in the 1970s as part of a regional development project trying to improve tourism and creating recreational opportunities.
Recreational activities
The lake and its surrounding parklands have a wide range of activities:
- Walking and cycling: A well-maintained 3.5 kilometer path encircles the lake, perfect for leisurely walks, jogging or cycling.
- Water sports: The lake supports activities like paddle boating and fishing, with permits available for anglers.
- Swimming: Swimming is only allowed in the designated swimming area in front of the Youth Hostel.
- Playgrounds and picnic areas: Families can enjoy several playgrounds and designated picnic spots equipped with tables and benches.
- Cultural events: The lake area often hosts open-air concerts, festivals and other cultural events, especially during the summer months.
Natural environment
The lake is surrounded by a green landscape, including meadows and forest that are home to diverse flora and fauna. Birdwatchers can spot various species of waterfowl and songbirds, while the park’s flora changes with the seasons.
Roman Villa Echternach
The Roman Villa of Echternach is discovered in 1975 during the construction of the artificial lake near Echternach. The villa dates back to the 1st century AD and remained in use until the 5th century. Its discovery provided profound insights into the Roman presence and architectural sophistication in the region.
The villa is approximately 118 by 62 meters and was an impressive residence with the following features:
- Up to 70 rooms on the ground floor alone.
- Marble-clad walls and mosaic floors.
- Underfloor heating systems (hypocaust).
- Thermal baths and courtyards.
These features underline the luxurious lifestyle and advanced engineering skills of its inhabitants. The villa is believed to have been the centre of a large agricultural estate. It was possibly involved in horse breeding for the Roman army. Its strategic location near the Roman city of Trier suggests its importance in regional trade and military logistics.
Conclusion
Route 1 of the Mullerthal Trail is a wonderful journey through Luxembourg’s “Little Switzerland.” It has a mix of natural beauty, historical charm and cultural landmarks. Starting in Echternach, the country’s oldest town, hikers are welcomed by the cobbled streets, the Basilica of St. Willibrord.
Heading south, the trail passes through Rosport, a peaceful village known for its connection to Henri Tudor and his battery innovation. The route then takes you past Kapell Giischterklaus, a tiny chapel situated in a peaceful landscape. As you approach Moesdorf, you leave the forest for open fields, where the landscape opens up into rural vistas and tranquil farmland.
In Herborn, you’ll find picturesque half-timbered houses and the St. James Church, as well as access to the Hierberbësch Nature Reserve, a haven of biodiversity. Don’t miss a detour to the Roman Villa of Echternach, an exceptional archaeological site revealing the grandeur of Roman life in the region. The scenic Echternach Lake is perfect for a relaxing break or picnic before or after your hike.
