Top 9 Castles in Diekirch Canton
Best castles in Diekirch Canton are found amidst a landscape characterized by river valleys, wooded hills, and historical significance. This region of Luxembourg features a collection of medieval castles, many perched on rocky outcrops overlooking the Sûre and Our rivers. The canton's terrain offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, with structures dating back centuries. These historical sites provide insights into the region's past as strategic strongholds and feudal residences.
Best castles in Diekirch Canton
- The most popular castles is Turelbaach Castle, a castle picturesquely situated on an island in a forest pond. Its towers, windows, and gates give it a fairy tale appearance.
- Another must-see spot is Bourscheid Castle, a castle standing majestically some 150 meters above the River Sûre. It is enclosed by a circular wall with 11 watchtowers and offers panoramic views of the Sûre River valley.
- Visitors also love Birtrange Castle, a castle built in the 13th century in the English Gothic style. This historical site was acquired by the De Blochhausen family in 1813 and later used by American troops during World War II.
- Diekirch Canton is known for medieval fortifications, restored castles, and castle ruins. Visitors can explore a variety of historical sites, from well-preserved structures to ancient ruins offering insights into the region's past.
- The castles in Diekirch Canton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 600 upvotes and over 500 photos shared across 11 highlights.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Bourscheid Castle
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Birtrange Castle
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Following the death of Baroness Claudine de Broqueville in January 2018, the castle was donated to the Luxembourg Red Cross. The Baroness wished that a music festival be held on the property after her death. To fulfill this wish, the Red Cross organized a three-day festival with 2,500 visitors from August 2 to 4, 2019.
In 2022, the Red Cross expressed its desire to auction the château due to its poor condition and high maintenance costs. The Red Cross will receive two-thirds of the proceeds from the sale, and the remaining third will go to Claudine de Broqueville's legal heirs, with the Red Cross to invest the proceeds in other projects. The Red Cross held an auction, with the minimum bid being €5.2 million. Luxembourg entrepreneur Jos Bourg purchased the building in March 2021 and began renovations on the château. The National Institute for Built Heritage supported the renovations.
From a distance, I find the condition of the building deplorable, even though it is beautifully situated.
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Turelbaach Castle
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More information is available at: visitguttland.lu/de/attraktion/schloss-turelbaach.
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Erpeldange-sur-Sûre Castle
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The history of Erpeldingen an der Sauer is closely connected with that of the castle and its owners. From 1464 to 1691 the Gondersdorf family ruled in the castle, from 1691 to 1840 then the family of the Barons du Prel.
In the period from 1840 to 1882 it was owned by the church and was inhabited by Pastor Joseph Kalbersch (until 1858).
At times, the building was also used as a church. "
Source: Wikipedia
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Erpeldange Castle
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During the 12th century, there appears to have been a tower and wooden fort at the site of the present castle. In the 13th century, Frederic and Gerard d'Erpeldange, the first lords of Erpeldange, built a fortified stone castle guarding the valley at the point where the River Sûre meets the Alzette. The property passed successively into the hands of the Counts of Vianden, and the Brandenburg-Outscheid and von Moestroff-Kerpen families. Through marriage, the Gondersdorf family inherited the castle and in 1630 transformed it into a luxurious residence for their daughter. In 1677, it was inherited by Charles François baron de Failly de Sancy and Marie Marguerite de Giraldin. By that time, it was no longer of any military value as a quiet park had replaced its defences. Abandoned by the Prel family in the 19th century, it was used as a rectory. During the Second World War, the castle was damaged as a result of its use first by the Germans and then by American troops. The castle changed hands a number of times until it was acquired by the State in 1983. The commune's administrative offices have been housed there since 1987. The building still contains two fine Renaissance fireplaces. (Wiki)
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Erpeldange on the Sûre
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Turelbach Castle
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the property has been owned by the Mertzig municipality, which intends to open the domain to the public. The castle is also known
as Turelbach.
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View of Bourscheid Castle
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View of Colmar-Berg Castle
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View of the Sauer River bend, Bourscheid Castle, and Bourscheid-Plage
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The castle was built in the 13th century by Gaspard-Florent de Breiderbach in the English Gothic style. In 1813, it was acquired by the De Blochhausen family. Baron Félix de Blochhausen was born at the castle in March 1834 and died there in November 1915. The castle passed into the possession of the family of Charles de Broqueville in 1935. During World War II, American troops were stationed in the building. Inscriptions and graffiti from these soldiers can still be seen on the castle walls today. The castle was abandoned in 2002. Following the death of Baroness Claudine de Broqueville in January 2018, the castle was donated to the Luxembourg Red Cross. The Baroness wished that a music festival be held on the property after her death. To fulfill this wish, the Red Cross organized a three-day festival with 2,500 visitors from August 2 to 4, 2019. In 2022, the Red Cross expressed its desire to auction the château due to its poor condition and high maintenance costs. The Red Cross will receive two-thirds of the proceeds from the sale, and the remaining third will go to Claudine de Broqueville's legal heirs, with the Red Cross to invest the proceeds in other projects. The Red Cross held an auction, with the minimum bid being €5.2 million. Luxembourg entrepreneur Jos Bourg purchased the building in March 2021 and began renovations on the château. The National Institute for Built Heritage supported the renovations. From a distance, I find the condition of the building deplorable, even though it is beautifully situated.
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A beautiful castle, like something out of a fairytale. However, it's not open to visitors; it now belongs to the municipality of Mertzig.
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Nice and flat stretch between all the climbing and descending.
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Bourscheid Castle is not to be missed along your path. The Lee Trail itself does not pass by. Adjust your route when visiting.
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After the view of the beautiful river bend you walk along it later. Enjoy!
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Turelbaach Castle, built by Pol Gilsons, is picturesquely situated on an island in a forest pond. With its towers, windows and gates, it looks like something out of a fairy tale. Even if you can't visit the castle from the inside, it's worth a visit! More information is available at: https://www.visitguttland.lu/de/attraktion/schloss-turelbaach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most impressive castles to visit in Diekirch Canton?
The Diekirch Canton is home to several remarkable castles. Among the most impressive are Bourscheid Castle, known for its extensive fortifications and panoramic views over the Sûre River, and Vianden Castle, a beautifully restored medieval fortress offering breathtaking views of the Our River valley. Clervaux Castle, while restored, houses significant cultural exhibitions.
What kind of historical significance do the castles in Diekirch Canton hold?
The castles in Diekirch Canton span various historical periods, from Roman outposts and Carolingian refuges to medieval feudal residences and strategic strongholds. For example, Vianden Castle showcases Romanesque and Gothic styles, while Birtrange Castle, built in the 13th century, was even used by American troops during World War II.
Are there family-friendly castles in Diekirch Canton?
Yes, several castles in Diekirch Canton are considered family-friendly. Bourscheid Castle and Turelbaach Castle are both listed as family-friendly. Vianden Castle also offers an interactive visitor center and hosts an annual medieval festival, making it engaging for all ages.
What kind of views can I expect from the castles in Diekirch Canton?
Many castles in the region are perched on rocky outcrops, offering stunning panoramic views. From Vianden Castle, you can see the town of Vianden and the Our River valley. Bourscheid Castle provides majestic vistas of the Sûre River and the Ardennes forest. The ruins of Esch-sur-Sûre Castle also offer sweeping views over the picturesque village and the narrow valley.
Are there hiking or walking routes near the castles in Diekirch Canton?
Yes, the region offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various running trails and gravel biking routes in Diekirch Canton that pass near historical sites and offer scenic views. For example, there are routes like 'View of Buurschter-Millen – Superb trail loop from Bourscheid' for running, and 'Esch-sur-Sûre Castle – Esch-sur-Sûre Castle loop from Ettelbruck' for gravel biking. You can explore more options on the Running Trails in Diekirch Canton or Gravel biking in Diekirch Canton guide pages.
What is the best time to visit the castles in Diekirch Canton?
The castles are generally accessible year-round. Summer months are popular, especially for events like Vianden Castle's medieval festival. However, visiting during spring or autumn can offer pleasant weather for exploring and beautiful natural scenery. Esch-sur-Sûre Castle ruins are freely accessible and illuminated in the evenings, making them a charming visit at dusk.
Can I explore the interiors of all castles, or are some only ruins?
It varies by castle. Vianden Castle has undergone extensive restoration and offers a full visitor experience with grand halls and a chapel. Bourscheid Castle allows exploration of its ruins, towers, and a Romanesque chapel. Esch-sur-Sûre Castle consists of ruins that are freely accessible. Turelbaach Castle is picturesque from the outside, but its interior is not open to visitors.
Are there any unique exhibitions or museums within the castles?
Yes, Clervaux Castle is notable for housing the world-famous 'The Family of Man' photo exhibition, which is a UNESCO World Documentary Heritage. It also contains a museum with models of Luxembourg's fortified castles and palaces, and a museum dedicated to the Battle of the Bulge.
Are there any castles that are particularly good for photography?
Many castles offer fantastic photographic opportunities due to their dramatic settings and architecture. Vianden Castle, perched high above the town, and Bourscheid Castle, with its 11 watchtowers overlooking the Sûre River, are highly photogenic. Turelbaach Castle, situated on an island in a forest pond, offers a fairy-tale like appearance that is very popular for photos.
What are some practical tips for visiting the castles?
Many castles are located on elevated terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Some, like Vianden Castle and Bourscheid Castle, offer audio guides for a richer experience. Check individual castle websites for specific opening hours, as some, like Vianden Castle, may have seasonal variations or special events.
Are there opportunities for cycling near the castles in Diekirch Canton?
Absolutely. The Diekirch Canton offers various cycling routes, including road cycling and gravel biking, that can take you past or near several castles. For instance, you can find routes like 'Bertrange Castle Ruins – Pettingen Castle Ruins loop from Diekirch' for road cycling. Explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes in Diekirch Canton guide page.
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