Esch-sur-Sûre, or Esch-Sauer in Luxembourgish, is a small town in the northwestern part of Luxembourg. It is located at a bend of the Sauer River, which a short distance upstream has a hydroelectric powerplant. This is a picturesque small town with a castle ruin and around 300 inhabitants. It is, however, its location in the valley and its many traditional white houses that create the most impressive scenery when viewed from above.
Our Visit to Esch-sur-Sûre
We visited Esch-sur-Sûre during our European Road Trip in 2017. Together with our, at the time, four-month-old daughter we explored countries like Belgium, France, and Germany. While staying a few days in Metz in France, we headed out on a day trip to explore Luxembourg. The small town of Esch-sur-Sûre was one of our stops that day. Other stops included Vianden and Echternach.
A Short History
Esch-sur-Sûre has a history stretching back at least to the Middle Ages. The oldest part of the castle above the town was built in the 10th century. The castle was later enlarged during the 13th century and a larger defensive structure around the town was added in the 15th century with a city wall and further defensive towers. The castle was in good shape up until the mid-16th century, but it was picked apart in 1685 by French soldiers. Since then, the castle has been left as a ruin with only minor attempts for restoration.
Things to Do and See
This picturesque small town is a must-see in itself and the view of the town from above offers beautiful scenery. The castle might be considered to be the main sight here, but it is everything combined that crates that postcard view.
Esch-sur-Sûre Castle
Esch-sur-Sûre Castle might be a ruin but it is still one of the most prominent sights in the town. The ruins are open to the public. The walls and tower are still an impressive sight. Here you will also find a stone church that has been rebuilt during earlier reconstruction efforts.
Naturpark Öewersauer
Naturpark Öewersauer, or the Upper Sûre Natural Park, can be found just a short distance upstream from the town of Esch-sur-Sûre. At its center is the artificial Upper Sûre Lake, the largest lake in Luxembourg. It was created when the Esch-sur-Sûre Dam was built in the 1950s and is a source of both hydroelectric power as well as drinking water. The lake and the river valley have become a popular tourist destination in the area.
How to Get to Esch-sur-Sûre
- Flights: The closest major airport is Luxembourg Airport (LUX), which is to the east near the capital Luxembourg City.
- Car: Esch-sur-Sûre lies along Road 27, which is a smaller road following the river. To the east, it will connect to Road 12 between Wilt and Eschdorf.
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