Little Switzerland

Little Switzerland refers to the region on either side of the Sauer river that defines the border between Luxembourg and Germany. This region with its rocky outcrops, craggy terrain, thick forests and small streams resembles, at least to some, its namesake country. One big difference is altitude. The highest elevation in Little Switzerland is 414 meters above sea level. Compare that to 4634 meters for Switzerland.

But this comparison should not be viewed as a negative. In fact for the average hiker, Little Switzerland might be more enjoyable that hiking in Switzerland. On the Luxembourg side there is a system of well marked and interesting wooded trails through the terrain, often around, under or through the rock outcrops. While there are no huge altitude changes, there are constant changes as you climb up and down the rocky trails. It reminded me of the Smoky Mountains. We noticed that we hiked a bit slower here due to these constant elevation changes and the sometimes rocky trails. Trails on the German side were not as well marked, but just as interesting and less traveled.

The area also offers things for the history buff. Echternach is Luxembourg's oldest town. There you can find a fine example of a Romanesque Cathedral and a nicely preserved old town. While Little Switzerland is a bit south of the Ardennes, it was still involved in the Battle of the Bulge during WWII.

For the social observer, the region provides some interest, as well. For instance gas prices in Luxembourg are much cheaper that in Germany. As a result, there are no gas stations near the border on the German side, well there are a number on the Luxembourg side (often right next to a bridge crossing the border). As salaries are higher in Luxembourg and housing prices cheaper in Germany, a larger number of people live on the German side, but work on the Luxembourg side (EU offices are less about 30 minutes away). Very striking is the difference in grocery stores between the two countries. The French influenced stores on the Luxembourg side offer a far richer variety of items that the discount driven stores on the German side.

All and all, this is a great get-away place for us, less than a two hour from Koblenz.