Luxembourg: Vianden Castle
And one more spectacular castle in the Luxembourg’s Ardennes mountains – Vianden. This one is perhaps the most impressive of all and it’s also the largest in Western Europe west of Rhine. Dating back to 1090, it stands next to the town of Vianden which itself is fortified and surrounded by a wall and river and mountains. The views of the castle from far are stunning. The castle inside is open and many room restored to the period’s full glory – like ornate halls adorned with knights in shining armor (literally), the kitchen with hams hanging from the ceiling, the wine cellar, and large dining halls.