Suggested Hike: Border Trail Hike near Morscheid

Stunning views of the Sommerau castle ruins and Marienlay Castle are the highlights of a hike along narrow meadow and forest trails, mostly in undisturbed tranquility.

From the parking lot, we head south along the farm road on the opposite side of the street, continuing straight ahead until we reach the Morscheider Border Trail. Here, at the edge of the forest, we turn toward the valley. Following a forest trail and a paved farm road, we reach a nature trail that leads us along an old borderline over a dam through a deciduous forest until we find ourselves above Sommerau, surrounded by vineyards. From here, we have a view of the village and the medieval castle ruins. After leaving the vineyards, we cross a paved road and walk through a section of forest until we reach an open field near a barn. The dirt road and a small path lead us to a large hole known as the “Kirchenloch.” This is a former slate quarry. Winding paths take us further down the valley to a small stream. After crossing the stream near a former ore mine (Erzkaul), we reach the Ruwer-Hochwald Bike Trail. We follow this trail to the Ruwer Bridge, then turn right through a small wooded area along the Ruwer River. Below Marienlay Castle, we cross the K 65 and follow a rocky path past slate quarries until we reach the Saar-Hunsrück Steig again. Uphill, through an old vineyard with beautiful viewpoints, we hike past the village of Morscheid. After crossing the K 65 again, we head through a wooded area, pass another quarry, climb a steep flight of stairs, and hike along a forest path above Riveris to the access trail that brings us back to the starting point.

As a general rule, entering the forest and walking on the trails is at your own risk. Depending on the season and weather conditions, extra caution is required on certain sections of the trails. Therefore, please wear clothing appropriate for the season and weather conditions, as well as hiking boots with adequate tread. You are in the drinking water protection area of the Riveris Dam. Please observe the relevant guidelines.

Sommerau Castle Ruins: Sommerau Castle was built on a rocky outcrop surrounded on three sides by the Ruwer River. This rocky outcrop, approximately 45 meters long, was cut through at its narrowest point to harness the Ruwer’s current for powering a mill. This created a bypass channel and drained the former river bend. The ruins are now privately owned but freely accessible and can be used as a resting spot.

Marienlay Castle: Built between 1922 and 1927, Marienlay Castle—located halfway between Waldrach and Morscheid—has been a defining feature of the landscape ever since. Slate from local mines, which were still in operation at the time, was used as building material. Since the castle’s construction, large vineyards have been located here; they have been owned by the long-established company “Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt” since 1999. The castle can be visited by appointment. For more information, visit www.kesselstatt.com.

This tour is a suggested route that is not fully marked. Please note that you may need to bring a map or download the track.

Schweinspielhütte Parking Lot in 54317 Morscheid