VIANDEN LUXEMBOURG September 2024 #Vianden

Riding the mighty KTM Superduke 1290 GT, I left for Vianden early September to meet up with 5 mates that I ride with locally in the UK. Weather looked iffy so I paid extra for a flexible ferry ticket giving me an eight hour window of departure time, so I picked the driest time of day to bolt to Dover avoiding the rain and make the crossing to Calais.

Many years ago I remember someone telling me “the bike at the front of the queue at customs always gets checked over by customs control”. I never gave that a second thought until this trip when the old biker I pulled up behind at Dover passport control generously offered to let me go first, which I did…..

No camping equipment needed this trip so the Superduke was only pulling me, two panniers and my smaller 42 litre top box, plenty enough luggage for a few weeks touring in Europe. Ive ridden through Vianden and Luxembourg many times but never stayed in the town of Vianden which as you will see is very pretty, full of history, and a Mecca for petrol heads. A walk up to the castle will get your heart pumping or a cable car is an option for those saving calories. The Castle is well worth a visit if you like that sort of thing.

Staying at Hotel Victor Hugo was a good experience, perfectly located in the centre of town by the bridge crossing the river Our. Close to many restaurants and cafe’s. Be aware that one night many restaurants are closed, so some forward planning/booking may be required for an evening meal.

The hotel, was named after Victor Hugo who was a very important figure in 1800 France. A politician, poet and author of famous books such as Les Miserables and the Hunchback of Notre Dame. He was exiled from France by Napoleon for his stance on human rights and for criticising the government of the day. An outspoken, free thinking brave individual. 1802-1885.