Getting to Wilwerwiltz by public transport

14th Century: Rise of Nobility The lordship of Wilwerwiltz emerges in the 14th century, cradled in the hands of the von Basenheim family. Renowned across the Eifel region, they preside over the castle's domain, linking their lineage to illustrious houses like Brandenburg, Clervaux, and Bourscheid. 16th Century: Renaissance and Renovation In 1586, Maria von der Heiden breathes new life into the manor, overseeing its renovation and the erection of a majestic entrance gate, a testament to the castle's enduring allure. The inscription on the gate speaks of a noble past, honoring the memory of her two late husbands who once graced its halls. 17th Century: Transition of Power The von Basenheim legacy wanes by the 17th century, passing through the hands of Baron von Wiltz and the Bockholtz family, each leaving their mark on the castle's walls. However, the winds of change blow fiercely with the onset of the French Revolution, altering the fate of nobility across the land. 20th Century: Decline and Preservation By 1928, the castle faces the specter of decay. The municipality steps in, purchasing the castle at auction and embarking on a journey to salvage its legacy. Only the tower and the entrance gate survived the process of demolition Legacy and Remembrance The tower, now an integral part of the public square, stands as a silent sentinel and has become the emblem of Wilwerwiltz.

The picturesque village of Lellingen, part of the municipality of Kiischpelt in the canton of Wiltz, was recognised as a model village by the Service des Sites et Monuments in 1984 and preserves its authentic atmosphere. The octagonal Saint-Pierre church sits enthroned in the middle of the village. Lellingen, a charming village in the Oesling, located about 10 kilometres east of Wiltz, unites at the crossroads of three streams: Lellgerbaach, Pëntschbach and the largest, the Clerve, which surrounds the chapel. The original chapel, dedicated to Saint Peter, was probably built around 1750 and consisted of an oblong building with 4 small windows. In the 19th century, the chapel was extended and given its definitive shape. With its unique architecture, the chapel presents itself with a narrow, elongated choir and a higher, roof-shaped transept. In the middle of the transept rises a small tower with a single bell from 1840, dedicated to Saint John. The interior is characterised by statues and reliquaries reflecting the rural piety of the Baroque and the 19th century. A special feature is the wooden altar retable, framed by doors that provide access to the small sacristy. The Regence-style décor with acanthus leaves and vines decorates the altar. The chapel blends seamlessly into the village and remains a lively place that regularly hosts exhibitions and attracts tourists, especially during the annual Open Air Konstfestival since 1991. The chapel is a significant work of art of historical, architectural and aesthetic value that complements the authentic atmosphere of the village.

The local hiking trails are marked with the abbreviations of the municipality where they start. The larger the number included in the marking sign, the longer the circular hiking trail. See for yourself the variety of local hiking trails and the different special features in Éislek.

Shortly after your start in the village center, you reach the St. Willibrordus Chapel. According to a legend, Willibrord planted his staff into the ground here and caused a spring to appear. Then the path crosses the Clerve, then the railway line. It quickly reaches Lellingen, whose restored village center is worth a detour. Between the streams Lellgerbaach and Péntsch, the route goes up the Hongerbierg and then to Pintsch. The path leads north, past the listed church and through meadows to the Lou. This is a confluence point where an integral geographic latitude and an integral geographic longitude meet. This place is marked by a sundial on the ground. Now the route turns left, toward Enscherange. Here you can discover the Rackésmillen, the oldest water-driven and functional mill in the country. From here it goes always downhill back to Wilwerwiltz.

A special highlight in spring: the daffodil bloom Every year between early and late April, the forests of Lellingen transform into a sea of wild daffodils and attract many visitors. The best time to experience this natural spectacle is early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid larger crowds. Important notes during the daffodil season: Stay on the marked paths – if the ground is trampled, the daffodils will not regrow the following year. Do not pick the flowers – leave them in nature so others can admire them as well. Parking options: Use the designated parking lot near the old control station and avoid private driveways or fields. Public transport: Wilwerwiltz train station is only 2 km from the trailhead, allowing you to visit the path conveniently without a car. Please keep dogs on a leash – to protect flora and fauna. A hike for every season The Via Botanica is a beautiful hike not only in spring but all year round. In summer, the lush greenery provides welcome shade, while autumn turns the landscape into a glowing mix of red and gold. Even in winter, the quiet forests offer a peaceful escape into nature. Whether you are here for the daffodils or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the Éislek landscape, the Via Botanica promises an unforgettable experience in every season.

From Lellingen, route 22 climbs the slopes through lush green forests and offers you a magnificent view from above over the surrounding mountain ranges, especially the Eifel in Germany. If you then head towards Vianden, you pass the upper reservoir of the SEO pumped-storage power station, the largest of its kind in Europe. Then it goes downhill to the medieval town of Vianden, which nestles picturesquely at the end of the valley. Here you will find cobbled streets, fortress walls, and an impressive castle.