Discover Orscholz: Cloef, Saarschleife and hotels

Cloef is a rocky viewpoint around 180 metres above the Saar, at the apex of the Saarschleife near Orscholz, a district of Mettlach. Since 2006, the Saarschleife and Cloef have been among Germany’s National Geotopes. The viewpoint and its geological significance go hand in hand here: you can experience a striking landscape and learn that it has also been designated a Geotope.

Views and rock formations

Another striking spot is Orkelsfels in Orscholz. This rugged, deeply fissured rock formation lies high above the town and offers views across large parts of Saarland when visibility is clear. Visibility is key: clear conditions are needed to enjoy the panoramic view.

Cloef-Atrium complements the viewpoints with a practical information centre. As an official information point for the nature park, it provides information about hiking trails, places to visit and events in Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park. If you are weighing up different options for your stay, you can find guidance there on all three.

Stops and tours from Cloef-Atrium

The Saarschleife Adventure Forest in Mettlach-Orscholz has 25 play and learning stations across more than 7,000 square metres. These figures give an idea of the scope and layout of the attraction, but do not indicate how long a visit will take. The entrance is directly opposite the exit of the Saarschleife treetop walk, next to the shop. As entrance arrangements may change, it is best to check before your visit whether this information is still current.

The Denkspur trail also starts at Cloef-Atrium, next to the entrance to the treetop walk. It is an interactive walking trail with nine stations featuring various tasks and challenges. The Cloef loop also starts at Cloef-Atrium, but is designated as a cycling tour and is 25.25 kilometres long. The two options can therefore be distinguished by their format and stated distance: a walking trail with task stations versus a longer cycling tour. When planning your trip, it is advisable to check the latest route information, as route measurements may be updated.

History and European themes

The Höckerlinie in Orscholz was part of the Westwall, serving as a concrete anti-tank obstacle. A particularly well-preserved section more than one kilometre long has been uncovered and made accessible via a path. The route thus connects a tangible structure with its historical function. The Orscholz Höckerlinie Trail project also explores the themes of “War and Peace” and “Borders and Europe”. These themes give the site a different focus from scenic views and nature experiences, making its historical context part of the visit.

Getting there and finding your way

For travel by car or bus, paid parking is available at Cloef-Atrium in Orscholz in car parks P1 and P2. P2 has four charging stations for electric vehicles. The car park and the nature park information point therefore provide practical landmarks for arriving and accessing local visitor information.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Beckingen, Mettlach, Wadern, Weiskirchen, Perl, Losheim Am See, Merzig, Nohn.

Back to the main travel overview: Merzig-Wadern.