Mettlach: Idyllic travel destination at the Saarschleife
Mettlach is a charming little town in the Saarland, known for its picturesque location at the famous Saarschleife and its long tradition as a ceramics center. The town, located at the tri-border point between Germany, France, and Luxembourg, offers a delightful combination of nature experiences, cultural treasures, and top-notch gastronomy. A vacation in Mettlach is ideal for travelers seeking relaxation, nature hikes, and exciting insights into local history.
The Saarschleife – A Natural Wonder and Landmark
The most famous sight near Mettlach is the Saarschleife, a spectacular river bend of the Saar River that winds majestically through the landscape. The Cloef viewpoint, above the Saarschleife, offers a breathtaking view of this natural wonder and is one of the most photographed spots in the Saarland. For hikers, there are numerous well-marked trails that lead through the dense forests and along the Saar, including the Cloef Trail, which leads directly to the viewpoint.
A particularly popular activity is visiting the Saarschleife Tree Top Walk, which stretches high above the trees and offers spectacular panoramic views of the Saarschleife and the surrounding landscape. On the 1.25-kilometer path, visitors can experience nature from a completely new perspective.
Villeroy & Boch – A Global Brand from Mettlach
Mettlach is globally known as the home of the ceramics manufacturer Villeroy & Boch. Founded in 1748, the company has been based in Mettlach ever since. A visit to the Villeroy & Boch Experience Center is a must for anyone interested in design, ceramics, and porcelain. In the historic buildings of the old Benedictine monastery, the museum showcases the long history and development of the brand, from hand-painted porcelain to modern designs.
Particularly noteworthy is the magnificent ceramics fountain, which with its intricate decorations is a true work of art. For those wanting to take home a special souvenir, there is the Villeroy & Boch Outlet Store, where high-quality ceramics are offered at attractive prices.
Culture and History in Mettlach
Aside from the Saarschleife and Villeroy & Boch, Mettlach has many other cultural highlights to offer. The Old Abbey, an impressive monastery building that now serves as the administrative center of Villeroy & Boch, is particularly noteworthy. The St. Lutwinus Parish Church in the center of the town is another landmark and an architectural gem. It is dedicated to St. Lutwinus, the founder of the Abbey of Mettlach.
History enthusiasts should also consider a visit to the Roman Villa Borg, a reconstructed Roman villa near Mettlach. Here, visitors can experience Roman life up close and immerse themselves in the world of antiquity.
Outdoor Activities around Mettlach
Mettlach and its surroundings offer a wide variety of leisure activities in nature. In addition to the hiking trails along the Saar, there are also numerous cycling paths that weave through the idyllic landscape. The Saar Cycle Path is a popular route that leads from France to Germany and is ideal for bike tours.
For those preferring a more relaxed pace, a boat trip on the Saar allows visitors to enjoy the Saarschleife from the water. Kayaking tours on the Saar also provide an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to discover the region from a different perspective.
Culinary Highlights in Mettlach
The Saarland is known for its excellent cuisine, and Mettlach is no exception. In the many cozy restaurants and inns of the town, visitors can enjoy regional specialties such as Dibbelabbes (a potato dish) or Gefillde (stuffed potato dumplings). Many of the restaurants also offer stunning views of the Saarschleife or the surrounding vineyards.
A special highlight is the Mettlach Abbey Brewery, a brewery located in the former monastery building that offers craft-brewed beers. Here, visitors can relax after a hike or sightseeing tour and taste local beer varieties.
Excursions Near Mettlach
Mettlach is the perfect starting point for excursions into the surrounding area. A visit to the nearby towns of Saarburg with its medieval castle and waterfall in the middle of the town, as well as Trier, the oldest city in Germany, is particularly recommended; it is only a short drive away. Trier is known for its impressive Roman ruins, including the Porta Nigra and the amphitheater.
A trip to neighboring Luxembourg is also a great opportunity to explore the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and enjoy the picturesque valleys and vineyards of the region.
Conclusion: A Relaxing Vacation in Mettlach
Mettlach is an idyllic location perfect for a relaxing holiday. The combination of stunning nature, cultural highlights, and relaxing activities makes Mettlach an ideal destination for vacations near attractions like the Saarschleife and Villeroy & Boch. Whether hiking, biking, culture, or gastronomy – Mettlach has something to offer everyone and guarantees unforgettable experiences in one of the most beautiful regions of Germany.