Taben-Rodt: Hiking on the Maunert and along the Saar

In Taben-Rodt, forests, hiking trails and the Saar shape the range of excursions. If you are considering the town as a destination for an overnight stay, you can factor different trail lengths, designated difficulty levels and historic sites into your plans. The routes offer a variety of experiences, from views across the Saar Valley to nature-focused and historical themes.

Forests and hiking trails around Taben-Rodt

Taben-Rodt lies in the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park and is surrounded by forest. The Tabener Urwald is a nature reserve associated with Taben-Rodt and is known for rare and very rare beetle species. The natural surroundings are also of interest to travelers who are interested in forests and wildlife as well as the trails.

Local hiking options include seven circular trails and the Maunert Felsenpfad. The European long-distance trail E3 passes through the town and follows some of these routes. You can therefore choose from circular walks with designated distances as well as a section of a long-distance trail that spans a wider region.

Choose hiking routes by length and difficulty

Circular Trail 1 is an easy 4-kilometer loop. It starts and ends at the parking lot of the youth and community center. Circular Trail 4 is rated moderate, covers 5 kilometers, and starts and ends at Michaelskapelle. By comparison, the first loop is shorter and rated easier, while the second is longer and moderate.

The Maunert Felsenpfad is a moderately difficult 1.8-kilometer hike. Sure-footedness and sturdy footwear are required. The trail leads to a summit cross and continues along the ridge as a scrambling route. When planning, the distance is therefore not the only factor to consider: the stated requirements for sure-footedness and footwear are also relevant when assessing the route.

The Kaiserweg is a 10-kilometer hike that starts at Michaelskapelle and passes through the Tabener Urwald and Saarsteilhänge nature reserves. Circular Trail 6 descends to the Saar and then returns to Michaelskapelle via the Kaiserweg. The routes described therefore differ in both length and course. As route details may change, check them locally before setting out.

Michaelskapelle and the Maunert: two viewpoints

The Gothic Michaelskapelle dates from the mid-15th century and stands on a high rock above the Saar. From there, the view extends across the Saar Valley; the Saar lies approximately 150 meters below. The summit cross on the Maunert, at an elevation of 416 meters, offers a different panorama: you can see Taben-Rodt, Serrig, the Kasteler Plateau and the Saar Valley. Both viewpoints look out over the valley, but show different places and sections of the landscape.

Local history and a recurring tradition

The town’s history can also be traced at various sites. Propstey St. Josef dates back to the year 769 and was established as a monastic outpost of Sankt Maximin in Trier. The historic Hausener Pfad was used by residents of Taben to reach Saarhausen and cross the Saar there on a small ferry. The ferry was part of this historic use of the path.

During the annual fair, a traditional procession in honor of Quiriacus sets off from Propstey St. Josef. If you would like to include this occasion in your travel plans, check the event dates in advance; details may vary. Historic sites and a recurring tradition thus complement the town’s nature and hiking destinations.

Cycling along the Saar

The Saar Cycle Route continues to Taben-Rodt; Michaelskapelle is considered a landmark of the town. Along the Saar, you can continue the route via Mettlach to Saarbrücken. The cycle route therefore offers a different way to plan your trip than the local circular walks and the Maunert route. Route details may change; check current conditions before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Wiltingen, Ensch, Thörnich, Leiwen, Temmels, Mannebach, Mertesdorf, Morscheid.

Go to the regional travel overview: Trier-Saarburg.