Chateau de Walzin / © TravelmatKanner
We've got sunny days ahead so this article will transport you to some of our favorite magical forests, botanical gardens and natural domains.
Additional links are provided as well so you can explore further.
I think in general you will be amazed by the different choices, the richness of nature, and the love people put in maintaining gardens, flowers and plants. For children, nature is a big school where education happens in the most natural and enjoyable way…not to mention the diversity we encounter in nature which is so important to appreciate and preserve.
Our journey starts here:
Luxembourg
Wiltz Garden
If you never thought of putting Wiltz on your map of places to visit, you definitely need to do so especially with the kids and head over to the Wiltz Garden.
Not only you will encounter an amazing variety of plants and flowers (I was really impressed by the hortensias for example) but the landscape of the garden is playful, you are surrounded by water elements, and children will enjoy “getting lost” in the different “hidden” corners of the garden. A kind of Alice in Wonderland feeling, only this time is real.
More information on the Wiltz Garden here.
The Gardens of the Ansembourg Castle
Now this is definitely one of my top favorite spots to visit in spring time. Ansembourg Castle Gardens are absolutely mesmerizing. Children will love to explore the labyrinth, check how much taller the green walls are, observe the amazing trees, run free in one of the most magical spots in Luxembourg. Flowers and plants, birds and statues, a beautiful castle and maybe you will see also the horses.
Extra tip: Just a few minutes drive from Ansembourg castle you will also find a recreational area called Hunnebour, a beautiful forest to walk, with lakes, picnic tables and more. You will be amazed by this place. More information on Hunnebour here.
Photos from one of our previous visits to the gardens of the Ansembourg Castle and Hunnebour:
Chateau d'Ansembourg / © TravelmatKanner
Hunnenbour / © TravelmatKanner
Gardens of the Munsbach Castle with beautiful roses
One of our recent discoveries is the gardens of the Munsbach Castle which is also the home of the Association of the Friends of Roses Luxembourg Asbl.
A beautiful garden with many plants, trees and of course roses. There is also a swing, a pond, picnic tables but also a very interesting mindfulness path where you and the children can experience sounds and more…Look for the big tree with the wooden small benches, sit there, close your eyes and connect with your true self. September 18, 2022 is dedicated to the roses and there will be the celebration of roses in the gardens so plan ahead and put this event in your calendar.
For more information check Roses Luxembourg and the castle.
Munsbach Castle Gardens / © TravelmatKanner
European Garden Troisvierges
This park was redesigned by students from Edinburgh, Munich and Versailles and it is a beautiful spot to stroll and enjoy the nature. More information to be found here.
Via Botanica, Lellingen (The daffodils forest)
I am sure most of you by know have visited Lellingen and Via Botanica as it has become a very popular and favorite destination during spring simply because this forest of daffodils is truly amazing, remarkable and magical.
Local photographers are also in love with this enchanted forest and many nice photos are available on social media.
The first time we visited we had literally to pinch ourselves to make sure it is real…it is absolutely beautiful.
But: the path in parts is narrow and in general is not suitable for strollers
Good links also to check and know when the daffodils are blooming are Visit Eislek, TravelMatKanner on Facebook, and Sik.lu.
Via Botanica Lellingen / © TravelmatKanner
Small garden at the Castle of Useldange
If you look around the castle you will find a small but beautiful garden where different herbs and plants are growing with relevant explanations. Kids loved it. Link to it here.
Botanika in Hobscheid
Botanika is a private garden, the owner is cultivating primarily edible flowers and flower confetti, what I suggest is that you keep an eye for Botanika Open Doors where you can visit with the children the garden and learn more about the work of the lovely owner and her team, the different plants and their importance.
Website is here.
Additional useful links to discover more gardens and parks in Luxembourg:
https://luxembourg.public.lu/en/visit/relaxing/parks-and-gardens.html
Community gardens (project with which residents of neighborhoods can cultivate their own gardens with environmentally friendly criteria
https://www.vdl.lu/en/visiting/leisure-and-nature-activities/gardening-city/community-gardens
Tours parks and Gardens Luxembourg
https://www.luxembourg-city.com/en/place/tour/tour-gardens-and-parks
LUGA will be the first major national horticultural exhibition in Luxembourg.
Visitors will discover innovative and niche economic activities in agriculture, horticulture, winemaking, the circular economy, environmental protection, ecotourism and environmental culture.
The focus will be on four key locations in the City of Luxembourg.
Belgium
Jardins d’eau d’ Annevoie
Definitely this place must be on your bucket list. It is difficult to explain in words the beauty of this place, the majestic gardens, the ponds, the presence of water, the harmony, the nature …
Walk in every path, rest in the wooden benches, observe the nature, discover the statues, show the children the different herbs, flowers and plants in the garden next to the castle. Listen to the sound of the running water and if you want you can enjoy food and drinks in the Brasserie located at the entrance of the gardens.
We were absolutely astonished by the beauty of this place. We did not want to leave…
The serenity of nature, the calmness, the freedom to explore free without cars, without noises, aways from the busy rhythms of every day life and so close to Luxembourg.
Strollers are ok also, big parking space available opposite. The garden has:
- 4 springs
- 48 hectares of parkland
- 50 water features
- 200 year old trees (the trees are simply amazing !!!)
- 250 years of continuous water flows
(Source: Jardins d’Eau d’ Annevoie tour map)
More information, location, opening hours etc here.
If you want to continue your trip we propose also the following itinerary that we did in one day and absolutely loved it.
Next stop: Chateau de Freÿr – It was under renovation when we visited in 2021 but you will enjoy the drive next to the river and passing the beautiful city of Dinant - we recommend you to check the online information for updated information.
Next stop: Chateau de Walzin - this is a real adventure - narrow streets through the fields, the forest , the gps might not take you until the end just ask the locals.
We drove thinking and saying there is no way there is a castle here especially the castle we had seen on photos.
And then you arrive to the end of the road and you can see and hear there is lots of water the river is there alive and powerful - take the nature path to cross the bridge to arrive at the most convenient spot to photograph the beautiful mesmerizing castle build on top of the hill; you enjoy the walk through the bridge - it’s really a “secret” place you need to look for it but it’s totally totally worth it.
You can’t visit the castle right now we couldn’t understand if it is because it’s marked private property but you can see it and take beautiful pictures.
Last but not least the chateau de Vêves - beautiful! Closes at 17:00 - we missed the inside but that means we can go back :)))
And when leaving you come across the village of Celles on the way back to Luxembourg, one of the most beautiful villages of Wallonie! Picturesque and romantic, there are hotels and restaurants.
Jardins d'Eau d'Annevoie / © TravelmatKanner
Japanese Garden, Hasselt
One of the best gardens to enjoy cherry trees that is not too far from Luxembourg. It is important to call and/or follow the garden online so you can get first hand information on when the cherry trees are blossoming.
As mentioned on the website of the garden: "There are 225 Japanese cherry trees or Sakura (桜) trees in the Japanese Garden. They are the pride of the Japanese Garden. Every year the garden organizes the O-hana-mi which is the traditional blossoms watching festival of Japan.
The cherry blossom and cherry trees have a rich symbolism in Japanese culture.’’
More information on opening hours, location, the different types of Japanese trees and plants you can find here.
The Gardens of the Bambois lake
Many different gardens to explore, amazing flora, a trip that will stay in your memories for ever, the Bambois lake has so much to offer to every visitor. Different events are also organized making this lake and gardens a favorite spot for families but also for all nature enthusiasts.
https://www.lacdebambois.be/les-jardins/
Lavender Garden, Limburg
If you love lavender fields but you do not wish to travel far to France, there is a fantastic alternative which is not far from Luxembourg and will definitely please your love for lavender.
All information for your visit please see here.
Domaine de Chevetogne
If someone asks me to name one place that I love to visit often with my family in and around Luxembourg, I would definitely say Domaine de Chevetogne.
This enchanted forest has everything you need for an amazing day out.
Breathtaking nature, absolutely beautiful trees, plants and flowers, restaurants, lakes, sports, playgrounds, escape games, overnight stays possible, swimming pool, pic nic tables, tree houses etc etc...
When I visited the Domaine the first time, I could not believe what I saw. None of my family members actually could…so much beauty all in one place… definitely you walk to discover all the beauty that is hidden in this natural miracle…stroller friendly also in most parts this is a MUST place to visit in family.
That day we visited for the first time, we came back home and we were sooo happy: we felt like we have been away for days in the most beautiful place in the world…no kidding…and so close to Luxembourg….
Extra tip: If you are a fan of Lord of the Rings there is something in the domaine that you will absolutely love…for you to discover…I say no more.
And to learn more this is the website to help you also prepare your visit.
https://www.domainedechevetogne.be/
https://www.facebook.com/DomaineChevetogne
Domaine d’Oisfagne
One of the most family friendly forests we have visited in Wallonia, so close to Luxembourg, very new, there is a circular hiking path, with many stations for children and adults to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area, also exercise stations, picnic tables at the end of the trail and playground. My tip for you: visit it also in the time of year when the mushrooms are out…you will be mesmerized…I have never seen so many mushrooms and different types in a forest …children will absolutely love it…Mushrooms after all are magical, don’t you think?
For more information here:
https://www.fauvillers.be/loisirs/oisefagne/
Domaine d'Oisefagne / © TravelmatKanner
Domaine de Mirwart
A beautiful forest for a day out with the children and very close to Luxembourg.
Hiking trails, a beautiful lake, fishing is also possible, this domaine is a nice surprise for the first time visitor. There are also toilets on site near the lake.
You can combine your visit also with the Castle of Mirwart which was recently renovated and has been converted to a hotel with gastronomic restaurant. Different events are also organized for families
For information and details to help you plan your visit please see here.
https://www.chateaudemirwart.com/
And if you wish to explore more in Wallonia, here are some useful links:
https://walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/content/parks-and-gardens-wallonia
Gardens in Wallonia with label “remarkable”:
https://www.pajawa.be/fr/apprendre/label-remarquable
FLORALIA FESTIVAL, Brussels
From 02 April to 03 May 2022 an amazing floral festival takes place in Brussels at the gardens of the Kasteel Van Groot Bijgaarden.
All information here: https://www.floralia-brussels.be/en/
Hallerbos
The enchanted forest of bluebells.
Here is the website to follow the flowering season for 2022 and to get all the updates to prepare your visit.
In this link you can find also some important information about bluebells but also the best alternatives to .
Germany
Japanese Garden Kaiserlautern, Gartenschau Kaiserlsautern, and Wildpark Kaiserslautern
A not so common destination from Luxembourg, however we highly recommend to add it on your list of places to visit because there are some beautiful gardens and forests to visit with the children. First, the...
Japanese Garden of Kaiserslautern
It is located in the city centre and although is not big in size, it has the perfect size to enjoy even with very small children; beautiful Japanese trees and plants, flowers, ponds with fish, some cherry trees, it is a definitely an oasis to visit.
https://www.facebook.com/JapanischerGarten/
https://www.japanischergarten.de/en/startseite.html
Japanese Garden Kaiserslautern / © TravelmatKanner
Gartenschau Kaiserslautern
Another beautiful garden to visit in Kaiserslautern is Gartenschau Kaiserslautern.
Currently and until 31 May there is an exhibition with statues made of sand.
In additions, dinosaurs, tulips, water playground, flower hall, mini golf, lego exhibition and more can be explored in the same location. Sounds fun right?
For detailed information check here:
https://www.gartenschau-kl.de/
Wildpark Kaiserslautern
An all year open with free entrance forest and animal park in Kaiserslautern, with hiking trails, discovery stations, pic nic tables and of course animals is also available in Kaiserslautern.
Garden Zweibrucken
Zweibrucken is quite well known to Luxembourg residents for its Outlet however in Zweibrucken there is a wonderful garden to be visited (as well as a water park, and an indoor playground).
The most admirable flowers in this garden are the roses. Of course there are many more beautiful flowers, plants and trees to enjoy like cherry trees, magnolias, rhododendrons, daffodils, tulips and much more.
https://rosengarten-zweibruecken.de/
Garden Losheim
Losheim lake is a beautiful destination for day trips or even short term escapes and journeys.
There is a beautiful garden with water playground, many nice paths to walk, café/kiosk, restaurant, shop, sale of plants, and toilets.
The Garden is actually the biggest garden landscape of Gardens without Limits: a network connecting all gardens in Luxembourg, Germany and France.
Jagersburger Weiher
One of TravelmatKanner recent discoveries.
What an amazing place for families.
Close to Luxembourg perfect for daily trip with lakes, gardens, water playground for children, restaurants by the lake, flowers, playgrounds, a forest adventure, BBQ spots, festivals, concerts and more… it is absolutely amazing and we highly recommend it!
https://www.facebook.com/jaegersburgerweiher/
The Gardens of the Roman Villa Borg in Perl
Apart of course from the Roman Villa itself, the gardens around the villa are wonderful to visit.
Fruits and vegetables, herbs are also cultivated and children can learn more about them, but also many flowers, a pond, a great big space for children to play and run free and of course very close to Luxembourg.
Jardins des Sens and Jardins de la Rencontre, Merzig
Not one but two beautiful gardens to visit in Merzig which is a great combination with the wolfs park.
For more details here:
France
Jardins des Traces Uckange
A lovely garden very close to Luxembourg that we love to visit in family. Not only there are beautiful plants and flowers to admire, there are great events organized all around the year with the most interesting ones and fun being the Halloween events and the Astronomy events.
14-15 May it is also the Flowers celebration in the gardens.
More information here.
Gardens of the Chateau de la Grange near Thionville
A beautiful castle and its gardens is always a good idea to visit.
The Castle is also organizing events, or can be booked for private events or even as a film location.
Here is the website: http://www.chateaudelagrange.com/
2 more locations in Metz which we have not visited yet but we are definitely interested to know more about.
If you visit first, let us know how you like them:
The Gardens at the Robert Schuman Center near Metz
http://www.centre-robert-schuman.org/robert-schuman-museum?langue=en
Jardins Fruitiers de Laquenexy – 10 min from Metz
http://www.mosellepassion.fr/index.php/les-sites-moselle-passion/jardins-fruitiers
Elfy Park
A literally enchanted forest, in the heart of the French Ardennes is lovely for families with younger children but also for bigger children.
Gardens, attractions, playgrounds and more … to explore more starting here.
If you wish to explore more gardens in Luxembourg, Germany and France the website of the ‘’Gardens without limits” is very useful: https://www.jardins-sans-limites.com/Karte
Netherlands
Keukenhof
Maybe one of the beautiful gardens in Europe or even in the world.
Keukenhof is famous worldwide, people are coming to Keukenhof from all over the world.
Indeed, it is simply amazing and definitely needs to be visited at least once in our lifetime.
It is not so close but neither too far. Perfect for a weekend trip.
You will stay for some hours as the gardens are quite big but also full of amazing flowers that you will want to look and observe again and again.
Extra tip: When we visited Keukenhof we combined with the amazing small town on the water called Giethoorn.
It is absolutely beautiful to explore, do not miss it.
Tulip Experiences near Amsterdam
1 Million Tulips? Yes it is possible there:
https://www.facebook.com/tulipexperienceamsterdam
And here:
The Tulip Barn
https://www.facebook.com/tulipbarnholland
Plukhetzelf - Botanical garden in Heerlen, Netherlands
There is a botanical garden also in Valkenburg near Maastricht and apparently you can also self-pick flowers.
As we have never visited we do not know if it is currently open however we list it here for further exploration:
https://www.plukhetzelf.nl/routebeschrijving
A small botanical garden at the Museum of Natural History in Maastricht
If you visit the museum, do not forget to visit also the botanical garden, small but very beautiful.
Castle Garden Oud-Valkenburg
As stated on the website : ‘’the garden lies in the grounds of the castle Schaloen, east of Valkenburg. Originally this was the kitchen garden of the castle, now a herbal garden, a 300 year old water mill and a heritage garden, showing the traditional and natural flora of the region: nature and history hand in hand”.
Sounds wonderful and it is on our list:
https://kasteeltuinoudvalkenburg.nl/
Botanical Garden Kerkrade
An amazing botanical garden, you can also enjoy Olive Trees.
All information is here:
Hope you enjoyed the journey and the ideas.
We wish you happy explorations. 😊