I have spent many years traveling across Europe with my four-legged best friend. My heart always yearns for places where history and nature come together. One of the most magical spots I have ever found is Bourscheid, Luxembourg. This tiny village is a hidden gem in the north of the country. It is part of the Éislek region, which people often call the Luxembourgish Ardennes. If you want a trip that feels like a fairy tale, this is it. A massive castle. A winding river. Green forests as far as the eye can see. This guide will help you plan the perfect Dog Friendly Holidays in Bourscheid, Luxembourg.
Why Bourscheid is Perfect for You and Your Dog
Luxembourg might be a small country, but it treats dogs like royalty. Dogs are as intelligent as two-year-old children on average. They can understand over 250 words and hand gestures. My dog certainly knows the word “vacation.” When we travel together, it creates a special bond. It also helps their brains grow because they learn new things in a new environment. Bourscheid is the perfect classroom for a dog.
The air is fresh. The trails are wide. Most importantly, the people are very welcoming to pets. You will not feel like a bother when you bring your dog along. In fact, you will feel like part of the family. Luxembourg City even has 400 distribution points for free dog waste bags, which shows how much they care about pet owners. Bourscheid follows this same friendly spirit.
Rules You Must Know Before You Go
First of all, you must handle the paperwork. I always tell my friends to plan this at least one month in advance. You do not want to reach the border and have a problem. Your dog must have a microchip for identification. If your dog has a tattoo, it only counts if it was done before July 3, 2011, and you can still read it clearly.
Additionally, you need an EU Pet Passport. This is an official document that a vet must sign. It proves who your dog is and lists their medical history. The most important part is the rabies vaccination. Your dog must be at least 12 weeks old to get the shot. Later, you must wait 21 days after the first shot before you can travel. If you are coming from outside the EU, like the United States, the rules are even stricter. You might need a rabies antibody test, and you must enter through specific points.
There is also a limit on how many pets you can bring. You can have a maximum of five animals for a personal trip. If you have more, the government might think you are a business. Therefore, keep your pack small and your documents ready. Also, some breeds are considered dangerous in Luxembourg. These include Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Mastiffs, and American Staffordshire Terriers. Owners of these breeds need special permission and training courses.
How to Get Around with Your Pup
Getting to Bourscheid is an adventure in itself. One of the best things about Luxembourg is the free public transport. Since 2020, you do not need a ticket for buses or trains within the country. This applies to your dog too! Dogs and cats travel for free.
However, there are some rules to follow on the train. Small pets should stay in a carrier bag or a cage. Larger dogs must stay on a leash. Your dog cannot sit on a seat. They must lie on the floor in front of you. I suggest looking for the “square” seating areas where four seats face each other. This gives your dog more room to stretch out.
A muzzle is not always mandatory, but you should have one with you. The train staff might ask you to put it on your dog for safety reasons. Plus, it is a good idea to avoid traveling during rush hour. This makes the trip less stressful for everyone.
Finding the Best Dog Friendly Hotel
When I look for a place to stay, I want comfort and a good view. Bourscheid has some incredible hotels that accept dogs. You have choices ranging from fancy rooms to cozy campsites.
1. Cocoon Hotel La Rive
This is a 4-star hotel located right on the banks of the Sauer River. It sits at the foot of the Bourscheid Castle. The views are breathtaking. The hotel has a wellness center with a sauna and a steam bath for humans. For the dogs, there are endless woods to explore right outside the door.
- Average Price: Around 292 € per night.
- Amenities: Free WiFi, a gourmet restaurant, and a fitness center.
- Dog Policy: Pets are allowed, though charges may apply.
2. Cocoon Hotel Belair
This sister hotel is also a great dog friendly hotel option. It offers magnificent views of the castle towers. Like La Rive, it is very close to the river beach. It features an à la carte restaurant and a garden terrace. It is a wonderful spot to relax after a long hike.
3. Sporthotel Leweck
If you want something a bit further out, this hotel is about 2.3 km from the center of Bourscheid. It is in the heart of the Oesling Region. It has indoor and outdoor pools. Some rooms have balconies that look out over the park and the castle. This is a high-end choice for those who love a bit of luxury.
4. Camping du Moulin
For those who love the “traditional” way of camping, this site is a dream. It sits in the natural valley of the Sûre. Dogs are welcome as long as they are under the strict control of their owners.
- Pitch Price: Starts from 14 €.
- Facilities: There is a kids’ playground, a snack bar, and free WiFi at the reception.
- Opening Dates: Usually from late March to early November.
5. Camping Panorama
This campground is only 0.3 km from the center of Bourscheid. It offers mountain views and a garden. It is another great spot where pets are allowed.
When you search for a dog hotel luxembourg, remember that many places charge a small fee for pets. It often depends on the size of the dog. Always put details about your pet in the booking notes so the staff can prepare.
Exploring the Mighty Bourscheid Castle
You cannot visit Bourscheid without going to the castle. It is the biggest castle in Luxembourg. It was likely built in the 10th century and grew larger in the 14th and 15th centuries. It has eleven watchtowers that look like they belong in a movie. It sits 150 meters high above the river.
The best part? Dogs on leashes are welcome to explore the grounds with you. I loved walking through the stone corridors with my dog. It felt like we were traveling back in time.
- Adult Ticket: 7,00 €.
- Seniors (65+): 5,00 €.
- Children (6-12 years): 4,00 €.
- Audio Guide: Available in seven languages, including English, German, and French.
- Opening Hours: From April to mid-October, it is open from 09:30 to 18:00. In the winter, it opens from 11:00 to 16:00.
In the evening, the castle is illuminated. The lights create a magical atmosphere that you can see from the valley below. It is a sight you will never forget.
Hiking Trails for You and Your Furry Friend
Bourscheid is a paradise for hikers. My dog and I spent hours on the trails. The scent of the forest is something dogs adore. It taps into the wolf living in their souls.
The Éislek Pad Bourscheid
This is a scenic but difficult route. It is about 14.8 km long and takes roughly five hours to finish.
- Starting Point: Parking at the church in Bourscheid.
- Highlights: You will see the “Finger of God” (Doigt de Dieu), which is a natural stone monument. You also get amazing views from the Napoléonsknäppchen viewing platform.
- Advice: Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water for you and your dog.
The Bavigne Loop
This is a 9.2 km loop that takes about 2.5 hours. It is a bit easier than the Éislek Pad but still has some steep parts. It is very dog-friendly. In some areas, your dog can even be off-leash, provided they are under control. There are even natural spots where your dog can jump in the water to cool off.
The Lee Trail
This trail is part of a larger network in the Ardennes. It offers a mix of dense forests and rocky paths. It is perfect for dogs with lots of energy. If you have a smaller dog, you can even rent a bike and ride through the hills together.
Dining Out with Your Dog
After all that walking, you will be hungry. Luckily, many hotels for dogs also have great restaurants where your pet can join you.
- Cocoon Hotel La Rive Restaurant: This gourmet spot serves regional dishes and seasonal menus. On warm days, you can sit on the terrace by the river. It is the perfect lunch setting.
- Brasserie Heringer Millen: This traditional brasserie is in the nearby Mullerthal countryside. It is featured in the Michelin guide. It has a garden terrace with incredible valley views.
- Le Grand Café – Redbeef: If you take a day trip to Luxembourg City, this place gets a “golden star” for how they treat furry guests.
- Um Plateau and Nirvana Café: These are other great options in the city that treat dogs as part of the family.
Always remember to bring a travel bowl for water. Most places will offer one, but it is better to be prepared.
Keeping Your Dog Safe: Vets and Health
I hope you never need a vet during your holiday. However, it is important to know where to go just in case. There is no emergency vet clinic directly in Bourscheid village. But, do not worry! There are many nearby.
- Nearby Vets: You can find emergency care in Lipperscheid, Ettelbruck, and Diekirch.
- Emergency Number: You can call 112 in Luxembourg. They will tell you where the nearest open clinic is.
- Clinics in the Capital: If you are near Luxembourg City, Cabinet Vétérinaire du Cedre and Deiereklinik Krakelshaff are highly rated. Krakelshaff even has a 24-hour service.
- Tick Season: In the summer, ticks can be a problem in the woods. Make sure your dog has tick protection before you start hiking.
Exploring More: The Upper Sûre Reservoir
If you have a car, you should drive to the Upper Sûre Reservoir. It is a beautiful lake used for drinking water and electricity.
- Dogs on Beaches: Most beaches around the lake do not allow dogs.
- The Exception: You can take your dog to the “Rommwiss” beach. You must keep them a safe distance from other people so everyone can enjoy the water.
The lake area is divided into protection zones. In Zone 2b, you can do water sports like canoeing as long as you do not use a motor. It is a peaceful place to spend an afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What to do in Luxembourg with a dog?
- You can visit the historic Bourscheid Castle, where leashed dogs are welcome to tour the grounds. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike through the scenic Éislek region or the Mullerthal Trail, which features dog-friendly paths like the B2 loop in Berdorf. Additionally, you can dine at pet-friendly establishments such as Le Grand Café – Redbeef or Nirvana Café.
- Where is the best place to holiday with a dog?
- Bourscheid is a premier choice, offering a mix of cultural sites like its castle and extensive nature trails. The Éislek region in northern Luxembourg is specifically highlighted for its high volume of dog-friendly excursions and accommodations.
- Which city is the most dog friendly?
- Cities like Bruges and Ghent are noted for their welcoming attitude toward dogs, while Bourscheid is ideal for those seeking a mix of history and hiking.
- Where can I go on holiday with a dog?
- Great options include Bourscheid and the wider Ardennes region for hiking, Belgian beach towns like Ostend for seaside activities, and the Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands.
- Is Luxembourg pet friendly?
- Yes, Luxembourg is very pet-friendly; it offers free public transport for animals and maintains 400 distribution points for free dog waste bags in Luxembourg City.
- Can I take my dog to Luxembourg?
- Yes, you can bring your dog if they have a microchip, a valid EU pet passport, and a rabies vaccination administered at least 21 days prior to travel.
Concluding words
Bourscheid, Luxembourg, serves as an exceptional destination for pet owners seeking a blend of history and outdoor adventure. Visitors can stay in high-quality, pet-friendly accommodations ranging from the riverside Cocoon Hotels to well-equipped campsites like Camping du Moulin.
The area’s centerpiece, Bourscheid Castle, welcomes leashed dogs, and the surrounding Éislek region offers diverse hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels. With pets traveling for free on public transport and numerous local restaurants welcoming furry guests, Bourscheid provides a seamless holiday experience for families and their dogs.
