Clervaux

A Gem in the Luxembourg Ardennes The town of Clervaux is located in the north of Luxembourg, in the heart of the wild landscapes of the Ardennes, also known as the Éislek. Overlooking the town is the imposing 12th-century castle, a landmark that defines the skyline. With its pedestrian streets, rich cultural offering, and a wide network of cycling and hiking trails, Clervaux is one of the most popular destinations in northern Luxembourg.

Clervaux is well worth a visit all year round, making it a favourite amongst tourists and locals. Changing landscapes throughout the seasons and a diverse programme of cultural events give the town its ever-renewed charm.

Architectural and Cultural Heritage of Clervaux

Architecture and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Clervaux. The parish church, dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian, was built in the Rhenish Romanesque style. Its twin towers dominate the town and can be seen from afar.

The Benedictine Abbey of St Maurice, with its characteristic red-tiled roofs, is another highlight. Built in a neo-Romanesque style, it holds daily morning mass at 10 a.m., where visitors can listen to Gregorian chants. The abbey shop offers homemade apple juice as well as a selection of books and artisanal products.

The Loretto Chapel is a striking example of baroque architecture in the Éislek region. Its richly decorated façade and beautifully designed interior showcase the craftsmanship of past centuries.

Clervaux Castle and the World-Famous The Family of Man Exhibition

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg has more than 70 castles. One of them is Clervaux Castle, home to several cultural treasures, including the world-renowned photography exhibition The Family of Man, as well as the Battle of the Bulge and Castle Museum and a collection of detailed castle models.

The Family of Man, curated by Luxembourg-born photographer Edward Steichen for the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. The exhibition consists of 503 photographs by 273 photographers from 68 countries and was first presented in 1955. Today, it is one of the major cultural attractions in Clervaux.

In the same castle, the Battle of the Bulge and Castle Museum documents the fierce fighting in the Ardennes during the Second World War. The second part of the museum showcases an extraordinary collection of 22 meticulously crafted scale models of Luxembourg’s castles.

Clervaux Castle is unique in Luxembourg due to the number of exhibitions it houses. Its location overlooking the town and its small gardens, which host exhibitions by ‘Clervaux - Cité de l'Image’, make it a must-see for culture lovers and photography enthusiasts in particular.

Exploring Nature Around Clervaux

For those wishing to explore Clervaux’s lush surroundings, the Éislek Pad Clervaux hiking trail is an excellent choice. This 13-kilometre route takes in the town’s main sights while offering breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views.

Another walking trail leads through the former animal park, which once served as a hunting ground for the Counts of Clervaux. Today, information panels along the 3-kilometre route tell the story of the park’s history.

More information about hiking routes and outdoor activities in and around Clervaux is available at Visit Éislek or at the Tourist Info Clervaux.

Staying and Enjoying Clervaux

Clervaux’s pedestrian area is filled with restaurants and cafés that invite visitors to linger and sample local Luxembourgish specialities – the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or hiking.

Accommodation is available in and around Clervaux, with a choice of hotels, guesthouses, and campsites providing a warm welcome to travellers.

Clervaux has a railway station that connects the town to the capital in just under an hour. There is also a direct connection to Liège in Belgium. Since 29 February 2020, public transport has been free for everyone, both residents and tourists. This applies to trains, trams and buses. Passengers no longer need a ticket. The only exception to this rule is for first-class tickets and season tickets on trains, which will continue to be charged at the current rates.