Castle Beaufort is a collection of two impressive castle buildings, the earliest of which dates back to the 11th century. Visit the castles’ rooms and gardens to glimpse into the lifestyles of the knights, lords and noblemen that once called them home. Castle Beaufort sits amid the lush countryside of the Mullerthal region, which is also known as Little Switzerland for its dense forests, green valleys, undulating hills and sandstone cliffs.
Start in the partly ruined medieval castle, characterized by its arched windows, round towers, solid stone walls and vaulted ceilings. It was built in four stages from 1050 to 1650 and passed between Wauthtier de Wiltz, Lord of Beaufort, the House of Orley and Maximilian of Austria, among others.
Sit on a bench in the courtyard and gaze up at the imposing structure. Then wander along corridors to see rooms, including a torture chamber, and climb staircases to a lookout tower. In another room, illustrations and a scale model show how the castle looked in its heyday.
The Renaissance-era castle dates back to 1650 and remains little changed from its origins. It is the creation of Jean Baron de Beck, a former military leader of the Duchy of Luxembourg. The interiors offer an insight into the life of the castle’s last owner, who passed away in 2012 at the age of 97. See antique wooden furniture, an extensive book collection, graceful chandeliers and family portraits.
In the grounds of the newer castle is a small distillery. Here you can learn how liqueurs are made and sample the distillery’s products. These include a blackcurrant spirit rich in vitamin C, a raspberry liqueur and cherry and plum brandies.
You’ll find the castle situated in the village of Beaufort, in the Echternach canton. It’s about a 45-minute drive north of Luxembourg City. There’s free parking outside the castle grounds.
Castle Beaufort is open daily between April and November. The Renaissance castle is accessible via guided tour only, which operate twice a day from Thursday to Sunday. Admission fees are applicable.
