Slow moments in Clervaux

By Paola Westbeek | Photos: Visit Clervaux

Nestled in the heart of Luxembourg’s Ardennes, Clervaux invites travellers to reconnect with nature and heritage while savouring the spring in a mindful way. With its rich history, scenic trails, cultural treasures and cosy gastronomic spots, this must-visit destination offers more than just a stop-over. Come with us to explore how Clervaux embraces the principles of slow tourism during the colourful season ahead.

As the first Cittaslow town in Luxembourg, Clervaux stands for a way of travelling that values authenticity. “Clervaux is not just a destination; it’s a way of life,” says Jonas Mossiat at Visit Clervaux. “It offers visitors a chance to slow down, explore at their own pace, and experience real life.”

Abbaye de Clervaux. Photo: The Road Abroad

A memorable spring in the valley

While Clervaux is peaceful year-round, spring remains a tranquil season. The town feels calm before the summer crowds and locals still set the tone of daily life. “Visitors who come at this time often find themselves completely alone on a trail,” Mossiat explains.

The valleys of the Clerve and Our Rivers define the landscape. Early mornings bring light mist over the water, while the surrounding hills begin to bloom. Hiking is one of the best ways to explore, with several marked trails that showcase the diversity of the region. The ‘Éislek PAD Heinerscheid’ trail (a good challenge for experienced walkers) is a 13-kilometre loop that crosses farmland, forest and riverbank. Another recommended route is the CL5 trail, a 12-kilometre loop starting at Clervaux train station. It passes scenic viewpoints like Mecher and includes a stop at the Robbesscheier estate, where visitors can enjoy a meal made with produce from its own gardens.

Château de Clervaux. Photo: Linda Devisch

Mossiat encourages travellers to use all their senses when visiting in spring. “There’s the smell of humus and new herbs, the sound of birds returning after winter, the view of the Abbey with its orange roof, and the taste of fresh vegetables in local restaurants,” he says.

Spring also brings local events that connect residents and visitors. The traditional Traipentrëppeltour walk ends with a meal of black pudding, while the Easter Market gathers artisans and associations in the town centre. Later in the season, the wine festival showcases winemakers from the south of the country.

Clervaux’s approach to slow tourism extends to its food and cultural scene. Local restaurants prioritise regional products and traditional recipes. “Life in Clervaux has a taste of simplicity and authenticity,” says Mossiat. “Local products, lovingly cultivated, are enjoyed without fuss.”

Dining options cover a range of styles. Hotel restaurants such as La Brasserie Koener, La Table de Clervaux, and Golf de Clervaux offer varied menus, while more traditional establishments like La Robbesscheier, Cornelyshaff, Reiff, and Les Écuries du Parc focus on Luxembourgish specialities. Dishes like Ardennes ham, Paschtéit, Judd mat Gaardebounen, and trout from the Our River feature on most menus.

Camping Tintesmühle. Photo: AlenaDex Photography

Cultural life here encourages visitors to take their time. The famous exhibition The Family of Man, displayed in Clervaux Castle, invites reflection rather than quick viewing. “There are deliberately no explanations for the artworks,” Mossiat emphasises. “Visitors are free to look, understand and imagine. It’s about emotional and intellectual connection.” The nearby Cité de l’Image turns the town itself into an open-air photo gallery, with installations that change with the seasons.

A hidden attraction is Konschthaus Op der Gare, an art space run by a couple, Guy and Mireille, who open their home to exhibitions and workshops. Visitors can explore Luxembourgish art or try different creative activities.

Slow moments in Clervaux

Living slowly

Accommodation in Clervaux reflects its philosophy of simple comfort. Those seeking peace and proximity to nature can stay at one of the commune’s four campsites, including Tintesmühle, located directly along the Our River. Small local inns like Reiff, Cornelyshaff, and Sammeshaff offer an authentic experience close to residents’ daily life. For more comfort, hotels such as Hôtel du Commerce, Koener and Château d’Urspelt provide spa facilities and elegant settings.

Luxembourg’s free public transport makes Clervaux easily accessible from major hubs like Luxembourg City or Liège. The train journey itself becomes part of the slow experience, connecting travellers directly to the station at the centre of town. Cyclists can also reach Clervaux via the Vennbahn route from Belgium and the Netherlands, while car rentals remain an option for those who wish to explore nearby attractions like Vianden or the Upper Sûre lakes.

While summer is busy, autumn brings colour and winter slows down, spring stands apart. “Visitors who come during this period will feel as if they are alone in the world, immersed in peaceful and preserved nature,” says Mossiat.

Whether walking along the Our River, tasting a traditional meal or taking time to understand a work of art, visitors experience a form of travel that values attention over speed. Spring certainly offers the welcoming rhythm of everyday life in this charming Ardennes town.