Stunning walks, culture, history, wine and food vie for attention
It's often remarked that, even on large maps, Luxembourg can't fit its name within its borders - but this tiny country at the heart of Europe has a huge amount to offer.
The landlocked Grand Duchy marks the interface of Latin and Germanic cultures, and comprises two distinct regions: the forested Ardennes, which is part of a range of hills carved out by rivers such as the Our and the Sure, and the prosperous farmlands of the Bon Pays, which include a stretch of the Moselle River with numerous vineyards on its banks. Both regions are dotted with picturesque villages and castles, while the capital, Luxembourg City, mixes historical interest with contemporary chic.
The best way to get to the heart of the capital is to take the Wenzel Walk, a circular stroll that promises to deliver 1,000 years of history in 100 minutes. Passing through Luxembourg's most charismatic quarters, the route - named after a 14th-century duke - takes in the Bock Promontory, the 274-year-old red sandstone Castle Bridge, and St Ulric's, the oldest parish church in the city.
Audio-visual programmes, outlining more of the city's history, are also screened throughout the day in Jacob Tower. One other notable city highlight, and a poignant one for a country as wealthy as Luxembourg, is the Musee du Banque, which traces 150 years of banking from piggy banks to ATMs.
An even more enticing trail is the Wine Route, running though the Moselle Valley, which is justly celebrated for its dry whites. Starting at Wasserbillig, and continuing alongside the river beyond Grevenmacher to the charming villages of Wormeldange, Remich and Schengen, the route passes many wineries, and guided tours and wine tastings are on offer at many cellars. The best time to visit is between August and November when the valley stages numerous colourful grape and wine festivals and parades, which usually conclude with spectacular fireworks displays and dancing in the streets at night.
Just as fun, but rather harder work, a cycling tour through the Ardennes takes in some of Luxembourg's most stunning scenery. Guided bike tours with prearranged accommodation are highly popular and can also take in the Minette region with its canyon scenery, Gutland - which is characterised by meadows and forests - and Mullerthal, which is known for its grand rock formations. And the whole country goes crazy for cycling in the summer when the Tour de Luxembourg, a smaller version of the Tour de France, takes place, with hordes of spectators lining the route to cheer on local biking hero Frank Schleck.