In Roman times, a stately home stood on the hilltop. The remains of the Villa Romana Echternach still bear witness to this. It was said that the builders had chosen this spot for its gentle, almost protective energy.
Centuries later, Willibrord, founder of Echternach Abbey, liked to retreat there to meditate. He spoke of a place where the soul found clarity and peace. Some say that he blessed the hidden spring that was already gushing forth beneath the trees.
The legend of the spring of Eden
But the true legend of Eden begins long before the hotel was built, when the hill was still nothing more than a dense forest.
One day, a little boy called Jos got lost there. It was then that he heard a faint murmur. Parting the branches, he discovered a clear spring gushing out from between the stones. When he stood up, a figure was standing behind him. A woman draped in a light veil. It was later said that she was the ancient protector of the Romans who lived near the Villa Romana and that she had also watched over Willibrord, centuries later. She said softly: “This spring is the first water. It belongs to sincere hearts.”
Jos, surprised but unafraid, made a simple wish: to find his family, from whom he had become separated. The woman brushed the water with her fingertips. A faint glow spread across it, like a silvery thread, then vanished. The next day, Jos found his way back. And a few days later, he was reunited with his family.
Ever since that day, the rumour has been passed down through the generations: the Fountain of Eden grants only one kind of wish – the one that is true. It is said that throwing a copper coin into the water allows you to make your dearest wish… provided it is sincere.
When the Hôtel Eden au Lac was built on the shores of Lake Echternach, the older folk murmured that it was no coincidence. It wasn’t that they had chosen the hill; it was the hill that had called out to them. Even today, on certain summer evenings, when the lake becomes a mirror and the garden falls silent, the water in the fountain glistens ever so slightly, even though there is no breeze. At such times, the people of Echternach smile gently: someone has just made a heartfelt wish.
And in Eden, true wishes always find a way.
Inspired by the timeless legend of Eden and its spring of sincere wishes, Hôtel Eden au Lac welcomes you to the heart of the Mullerthal Forest, in a unique setting for hosting your meetings and corporate events. Extend the experience afterwards by discovering the refined flavours of Le Jardin d’Épices restaurant or by enjoying a moment of complete relaxation in our wellness area, which features more than 15 facilities.
Booking: edenaulac.lu I edenlac@pt.lu I +352 728 283
For further information, please see www.edenaulac.lu.
A full version of this article is also available in French.
This promotional article was written by Hôtel Eden au Lac as part of the company’s membership of the Paperjam Club. If you would like to become a member of the Club, please contact us at club@paperjam.lu.