Saarburg: A Waterfall in Town

Saarburg is a small town in the Saar valley, closer to Trier than to Saarbrücken. This is the pretty part of the valley with forests and vineyards on the slopes of rather steep hills, as opposed to the industrial areas further upstream. The famous Saar bend near Mettlach is not far. While that part is not reachable by train and requires a car or bike or some hiking, the views from the train line along the river bank are already fine enough. It was spring, with fruit trees in bloom and the trees and bushes sprouting the first light green.

I had one hour between trains to play with in Saarburg. The station is located on the other side of the river. Reaching the old town requires a little walk, but the walker is rewarded with the best panoramic view of the town from the Saar bridge. Saarburg occupies the slopes and crests of two hills. The hill on the left is covered by the historical centre and the catholic parish church. The ridge on the right carries the ruins of the castle and the protestant church. Cars have to pass through a tunnel to reach the centre, while pedestrians can walk down a stairway to the river bank.

The most spectacular bit is, however, what lies between the two hills. The stream that runs through the town has created a deep cut into the rocks and forms a waterfall. Right in the middle of the town!

The falls create a constant deafening sound, but I suppose that the locals are used to their noisy neighbour and don't hear it any more.

The water powers have long been used to drive water mills. Quite daring constructions have been installed down there to lead the water where it is needed to drive the mill wheels. The mill is a museum now, but it was closed that day.

The squares along the canal above the waterfall are more or less one single outdoor cafe. Ice-cream places, restaurants, cafes all have their tables out. On this Monday morning it was quiet, but on weekends and in main season it is likely to be buzzing.

Saarburg must be a popular destination for day trips and bike tours along the Saar valley.

Since I had more plans for that day, I spared my painful feet the climb up to the castle and limited my visit to a walk round the old town and up to the catholic church.

Saarburg is tiny and explored in short time. The setting on the steep slope, its narrow lanes, and the historical architecture create plenty of photo options, though.

On the way back I found a narrow stairway that led me down to the promenade trail on the river bank.

I ended up at the boat landing, where a white river boat is waiting for the cruise season to start. A boat ride on the Saar through these charming landscapes must be a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.

A big blooming cherry tree on the river bank screamed for more photos to be taken…