Mettlach Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Mettlach, Germany with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food, accommodations, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Mettlach

Nestled in the picturesque valley of Saar River, Mettlach is a charming town located in Saarland, Germany. With its historic architecture, scenic views, and cultural richness, Mettlach offers visitors an unforgettable experience. This travel guide is here to help you explore every nook and cranny of this hidden gem, from natural wonders to cultural marvels.

List of Places to Visit in Mettlach

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. Villeroy and Boch Factory

The Villeroy and Boch Factory is a must-visit destination for lovers of ceramics and pottery. Founded in 1748, this factory makes high-quality tableware, decor, and furnishings. Visitors can tour the factory and watch skilled craftsmen as they create intricate designs on ceramics. Visitors can also shop for souvenirs and purchase high-end ceramic products.

2. Cloef Observation Tower

The Cloef Observation Tower is a historical landmark that has been in existence since the 1930s. Situated on a rock ledge, it offers breathtaking views of Saarschleife- a horseshoe bend of the Saar River. The tower has a unique architectural design with a spiral staircase that leads to the viewing platforms.

3. Castle Montclair

Built-in the 13th century and renovated in the early 20th century, Castle Montclair is a magnificent historical monument situated on a rocky plateau. Visitors can explore the castle’s architecture and learn about its fascinating history. The castle also houses a museum that documents the history of the castle and the surrounding area.

Natural Attractions of Mettlach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Saarschleife

The Saarschleife (Saar Loop) is a horseshoe-shaped bend of the Saar River that is famous for its panoramic views, lush green landscapes, and hiking trails. Visitors can take a boat cruise on the river or hike to the viewpoint to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

2. Saarland Cycle Path

The Saarland Cycle Path is a scenic trail that runs from Saarbrücken to the French border and passes through Mettlach. The trail is suitable for both beginners and experienced cyclists, and it includes mesmerizing views of the countryside.

3. Wolfspark Werner Freund

Located near the town of Merzig, the Wolfspark Werner Freund is a unique park where visitors can witness wolves living in their natural habitat. Visitors can observe packs of wolves interacting with one another and learn about these fascinating animals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mettlach

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Mettlach won’t disappoint you. The Saar-Hunsrück trail is a famous hiking and biking route that runs through the town. The trail is well-marked and offers a magnificent view of the surrounding nature.

Best Things to Do in Mettlach: Activities and Tours

1. Boat Cruise on the Saar River

Taking a boat cruise on the Saar river is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Mettlach. The cruises offer a view of the stunning landscape and many historical monuments.

2. Wine Tasting

Mettlach is blessed with luscious vineyards that produce world-class wines. Visitors can take wine tasting tours of local vineyards and try the delicious Rieslings and Pinot Blanc’s wine varieties.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mettlach

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Mettlach, Visit the Cloef Observation Tower, and Saarschleife
Day 2 Hike on the Saar-Hunsrück trail, visit Hermann-Löns hut
Day 3 Visit Castle Montclair and hike on the Karlsberg trail
Day 4 Explore the Villeroy and Boch Factory, learn about the history of ceramics manufacturing
Day 5 Take a boat cruise on the Saar River, enjoy the scenic view and learn about the history of the river
Day 6 Tour the Wolfspark Werner Freund, observe the wolf packs
Day 7 Wine Tasting, relax and savor the local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Mettlach

Must-Try Dishes

1. Schwenkbraten

A regional specialty, Schwenkbraten is a grilled pork steak that is marinated in spices and vinegar. It is usually served with French fries or potato salad.

2. Reibekuchen

Reibekuchen is a German-style potato pancake that is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It is usually served with apple sauce or sour cream.

Local Beverages

1. Riesling Wine

The town of Mettlach is known for its Riesling wines, which are sweet, fruity, and aromatic. Visitors can taste Riesling wines at local vineyards and wineries.

2. Kessler Sekt

Kessler Sekt is the oldest sparkling wine brand in Germany, and its wine cellars are located in the picturesque town of Mettlach. Visitors can witness the sparkling wine being made and enjoy tasting sessions.

Where to Stay in Mettlach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mettlach offers a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the popular options are:

1. Hotel Mettlacher Hof

Located in the heart of the town, the Hotel Mettlacher Hof is a cozy and comfortable hotel that offers stylish rooms and suites.

2. Hotel Saarpark

Hotel Saarpark provides a unique blend of modernity and traditional décor. The hotel is situated near the natural attractions of the town, and it has well-equipped rooms that offer a breathtaking view of the Saar River.

What to Buy in Mettlach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can bring back many souvenirs from Mettlach that reflect the town’s culture and heritage. Some of the popular souvenirs are:

1. Villeroy and Boch ceramics

Visitors can buy exquisite ceramic products that are made by the skilled artisans of the Villeroy and Boch Factory.

2. Riesling Wine

Visitors can take back sweet and aromatic Riesling Wine that is cultivated in the local vineyards.

Local Culture and Customs of Mettlach

Mettlach is a town that celebrates its culture and heritage. Visitors should be aware of certain customs and behaviors:

  • Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Mettlach.
  • Germans are very punctual, so visitors should be on time.
  • Smoking is prohibited in most public places.

Best Time to Visit Mettlach

Mettlach is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from June to August when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mettlach

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and cultures.
  • Tip your servers when dining out.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and biking trails.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage public property.
  • Don’t smoke in public places.
  • Don’t disturb the wildlife and ecosystem.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mettlach

Mettlach is a safe town. Visitors should take basic safety precautions such as looking both ways before crossing the road, keeping valuables safely, and following traffic rules.

Health in Mettlach

Visitors should take standard precautions when it comes to health. Drinking tap water is safe, and medical facilities are available in the town.

Getting to Mettlach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mettlach

The nearest airports to Mettlach are the Frankfurt International Airport and Luxembourg Airport. Both airports offer public transportation services and car rentals to reach Mettlach.

Bus Stations Near Mettlach

Mettlach is well connected to the surrounding towns and neighboring countries by buses. The Mettlach bus station is located in the town center of the town.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Mettlach by train or car. The train station is located in the town center, and the town is easily accessible by car via the A620 highway.

How to Get Around in Mettlach

Mettlach is a compact town and easy to explore on foot. Visitors can also rent bicycles and explore the town’s scenic trails.

Where to Go Next from Mettlach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore the picturesque towns of Merzig and Saarburg, which are located near Mettlach. These towns offer beautiful landscapes, historical monuments, and cultural experiences.

Conclusion

Mettlach is a quaint and charming town that offers a unique blend of nature, history, and culture. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities and experiences that cater to their interests and preferences. The above travel guide provides a comprehensive idea about the best things to do, places to visit, food, accommodation, safety tips, and more. Plan your trip to Mettlach today and explore this hidden gem of Germany!

Saarschleife Saarschleife