Between Nittel and Wellen lies the Nitteler Fels nature reserve. Tall dolomite and limestone rocks form an impressive panorama. Here, a protected habitat for endangered animals has developed, especially for species of birds, insects, reptiles, and bats. Numerous Mediterranean-native plants thrive on the dry grassland of the nature reserve, such as orchids, rock pear, spindle tree, and boxwood. Also thriving here are hawthorn, dogwood, and cornelian cherry. The favorable, continental-influenced climate is due to the sheltered location between the Gutland highlands. During the route, magnificent views over the Moselle valley and towards Luxembourg appear repeatedly.
The hiking trail leads from the wine village of Nittel to the Nitteler Fels nature reserve with impressive dolomite and limestone rocks.
Nittel is located on the Wittlich - Trier - Perl railway line
Information on current bus schedules can be found at: www.vrt-info.de/busnetz
Starting directly from the train station in Nittel, the rock path runs along the wine route through the village, then sharply turns left and heads toward the towering rock walls. The vineyards, which are flat only at the beginning, gradually become steeper and eventually turn into vertical rock walls, beneath which the trail passes, going past the "Knee with Joint" to the monumental "Great Pointer" at the Farst. The two sculptures were erected in 2001 as part of the "Stones on the River" sculptor symposium. The path climbs steeply right along the edge of the rocks for a bit and follows along the cliff to the highest point of the Nittel rocks and then descends toward the nearby Windhof. A constant companion is the magnificent view over the Moselle all the way into Luxembourg. Those traveling at the right time in April and May can also enjoy colorful blooming wild orchids under the gnarled oaks. From there it goes back through Nittel to the train station.
Please note that this hiking trail is not a certified premium hiking trail and there is no continuous signage of the route. Furthermore, the path partly runs on paved service roads and not on narrow paths.
In wet weather conditions, the path through the rock formations can become slippery quickly!
Light hiking shoes are definitely appropriate on the rock trail. It is advisable to bring sufficient provisions; there are many refreshment options at the start and finish in the wine village.
Take binoculars to be able to observe the falcons!
Saar-Obermosel Tourism, Tourist Information Saarburg, Graf-Siegfried-Str. 32, 54439 Saarburg, Tel. 06581-995980
Saar-Obermosel Tourism, Tourist Information Konz, Saarstr. 1, 54329 Konz, Tel. 06501-6018040
Email: info@saar-obermosel.de
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