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When thinking about the top “outdoor destinations in Germany,” it’s easy to immediately think of the Black Forest or Bavarian Alps. While those are certainly worth visiting, many people don’t realize the sheer number of great forests, mountains and outdoor spots sprinkled throughout the rest of Germany—and your own backyard. Baumwipfelpfad Saarschleife, or Treetop Walk Saarschleife, is one of those spots.
Located about one-and-a-half hours from Kaiserslautern by car, this spot is not far from the French border and near the spa town of Mettlach-Orscholz. It makes for a perfect day trip during any season but is especially nice on a beautiful spring day to get outside with the family.
The primary attraction is, of course, the treetop observation tower, but there are a number of stations along the way to keep children and families engaged too. The walk itself is one-and-a-quarter kilometers long and the tower then reaches up 42 meters above the ground. Designed with gradual ramps, the tower is accessible to wheelchairs and offers areas along the way to stop and rest. Once you reach the top, you will be treated to a view of the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park and the Saarschleife Valley. This valley features a unique bend in the Saar River that has been carved into a layer of quartzite over time—making it one of Saarland’s most popular destinations. On a clear day, you may even be able to see France’s Vosges mountain range in the distance.
Along the way, activity stations offer introductions to the plants, animals and other wildlife of the area to passersby. There are two different entrances with ticket offices, the Treetop Walk entrance and the Adventure Forest entrance. With an additional ticket, your family can visit the Adventure Park playground, housing 25 different nature-themed play areas and learning stations.
Looking for a snack or refreshment on the way up or down from your treetop hike? At the entrance to the park, you will find Bistro Mirabell, where you can fill up on a selection of warm dishes, coffee drinks and cakes. In the warmer months, take advantage of the lovely patio. Halfway through the walk you will then come upon Futterkrippe Blumenfels, next to a rest area and restrooms. Futterkrippe has a large beer garden and offers fresh regional specialties with a focus on sustainability, including options for vegan and gluten-free diners.
Planning Your Trip
Adult tickets are 11.50 euros, children ages 6 to 14 are 9.50 and ages 5 and below are free. You can also purchase a family ticket, group tickets or even annual passes—worth considering because the views will change depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased online ahead of time and in person. Be sure to review any rules and COVID-19 guidelines prior to visiting. The treetop walk is open year-round, with differing hours depending on the season, and parking is available in a variety of lots near and around the treetop walk.
If you’re looking for a few more stops to round out your day in Saarland, consider visiting Montclair Castle, world-renowned ceramic company Villeroy & Boch or one of the many hiking trails in the area.
