Saarschleife – the river with a view

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In the southwestern region of Germany, situated along the river Saar, Saarschleife is the spot where the river turns spectacularly – an almost unbelievable hairpin turn. The river travels nearly a distance of 10 kilometres and makes the U-turn to just fall short of 2 kilometres from its initial spot.

The site is an oft-visited location. It offers the spirit of peace and thrill, both at the same time. There is also the added advantage of being surrounded by a lush green forest and the sight of the blissful scenic beauty.

Location:

Saarland is the smallest of the states in Germany by area and is bordered by Rhineland-Palatinate in the north and eastern side, in the southern side it has the French occupied regions of Alsace-Champagne-Ardenne-Lorraine, and the western side is bordered by Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

The most famous sight of Saarland is Saarschleife. It is located at a distance of 60 kilometres towards the northwest of Saarbrücken. The loop begins just before the country town of Merziger near to its district of Besseringen and ends in Mettlach, The way to the ‘Loop of the Saar’ can also be found along the A620 and A8 roads.

All about the region:

Saarschleife is located in vicinity of Orscholz – a natural park which is at a distance of 5 kilometres west of Mettlach. Cloef is the ideal viewing spot and can be accessed through a small enough walking tour. Also, if you are interested in experiencing the loop, in that case cruises are also available and the journey lasts nearly an hour and a half. The cruises can be accessed from Mettlach.

Saarland has quite a history. During the time of the Great War’s it came under the French rule but the people of the region chose Germany over France. The region has substantial amount of natural resource reserves. Its industrial heritage, especially the historically iconic Völklinger Hütte ironworks is a must site to visit. Around 1920 Saarland was known as Saar and was a political entity. Around this time there was a conflict concerning the control of the area. Saarland has been influenced by the French in a rather obviously subtle manner. The locals here are usually bilingual and French is spoken as the second main language.

Cloef, is the sport from where you can get a fantastic view and can be reached if travelled 1.7 kilometres in the east through the forested regions from the village of Orschloz. There is a natural park which is located towards the northwest of Mettlanch at a distance of 5 kilometres.

Furthermore, the distance between the parking area and Saarschleife is about 800 meters. The terrain is quite comfortable. Though there is only one particular section of the pathway which has an upslope, but it can be covered easily. Tourists have recommended walking all the way is a worthy task. Intriguingly there are in-fact many ways to explore the region, you could also take a circular route from Mettlach through the Saarschleife. This trip could be covered in 5 hours’ time approximately and the distance covered will be no more than 16-17 kilometres. The pathways and spots are well marked along with basic facilities made available. Approximately 100 hectares on the western side of the Saar loop is known as Steinbachtal west Saarschleife. It has been conserved and carries certain restrictions and tourists are advised to be careful with what they do. Furthermore, littering and spreading trash around is completely prohibited. In-fact the culture is such that any such act is frowned upon.

The river Saar lies in the north-western region of France and western Germany. Its origins lie in the mountains of Vosges which are located on the borders of Alsace and Lorraine and it then flow towards north into Moselle. The river has held a lot of historical importance, especially for the time when coal, and the iron and steel industries started flourishing in the region. Saar was an important mode though which raw materials and finished goods were transported.

Throughout history the Saar loop has had many prominent visitors. Among them was the King of Prussia, Frederick William IV and Adolf Hitler the German Chancellor.

Why visit?

Saarschleife is an ideal spot for all of those who seek peace, relaxation, and activity. Saarschleife will offer opportunities such as biking, hiking, boat trips, excursions and much more. The region exposes its voluptuous charm in every season. The loop has been described using food imageries by many. The popular descriptions are that of a sausage ring and/or a ring of Lyon. The spectacular view of the river Saar bending and blends with the lush green forest. The viewpoint, Cloef is positioned about 180 meters above Saar and is located in the woodland park and you must visit here as it is among the most recommended spots of the region. The idyllic quiet atmosphere might be overwhelming for some, but for the rest it will be like an escape from the bustling, loud and cranky city life.

It rains here unexpectedly and it is also best enjoyed during the misty rainy days. The clouds usually quite literally hang around in the valley and thus the appearance is that of a mystic reality. You can also hike along the river or go downhill or over the Saar, towards the castle and back again. It will not only rejuvenate the adventurer in you but also is a good way to explore the forested areas. Saarschleife is quite a popular weekend getaway spot and therefore you’ll find people there at all times. Everyone goes there to rekindle their connections with life and basically chill, therefore, no one will intrude your privacy unless otherwise provoked.

Furthermore, there are many restaurants; B&B’s which are open during the months of winters and summer. They offer some of the most well-known regional delicacies at reasonable prices. Most tourists after their whole days’ worth of physical activity chill out at these spots with beer and a hearty meal.

.What else is around?

  • Voelklinger-Huette
  • Saarbrucken Old Town
  • Gondwana – Das Praehistorium
  • Erlebniszentrum Villeroy & Boch
  • Historisches Museum
  • Basilika Saarbrucken
  • Perl
  • Losheim am See
  • Saarbrücken