Travel mindfully and preserve nature
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Combining species and nature conservation with traveling and being mindful on your own vacation doesn't necessarily have to mean doing without. On the contrary! Traveling sustainably means taking a conscious vacation. The natural landscapes in Saarland offer the opportunity to experience flora and fauna on vacation in very different ways.
Over 66% of Saarland is protected. There is a good reason for this, because the Saarland forests are intended to offer relaxation and deceleration for many future generations. Combining species and nature conservation with traveling and being mindful on your own vacation doesn't necessarily have to mean doing without. Enjoy nature with all your senses and relax in and with it.
In 2018, Saarland was the first federal state to be certified as a sustainable travel destination by TourCert GmbH. Relaxation doesn't just mean enjoying untouched nature, but also staying longer and immersing yourself deeper in a region.
Unlimited nature even on your next vacation
The four national natural landscapes of Saarland offer the opportunity to experience flora and fauna on vacation in very different ways. The historic Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park is the youngest of 16 German national parks and, despite its manageable size, it has a special biodiversity. Not only is the wildcat at home, the dense coniferous forest also offered refuge to the Celts thousands of years ago. The national park and its contemporary witnesses such as the Celtic ring wall in Otzenhausen can be easily explored on foot using the many hiking trails and thanks to the trekking camps you can even spend the night here in the middle of nature.
The Saar impressively meanders in an almost perfect U through the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park. The beautiful mixed forest and the characteristic rock formations characterize the valley as well as the Saarland's landmark: the Saar loop. Many native animals such as rare and important bird species, beavers, red deer and wild boar also find a lush habitat here. Many cycling and hiking trails run through the landscape and invite you to explore the vineyards near Perl, or river and stream valleys around Merzig and Mettlach.
The UNESCO biosphere reserve is located in the southeastern part of Saarland. The wide meadow landscapes and numerous orchards show the perfect harmony between people and nature. The region has already been among the finalists twice in the national competition for sustainable tourism destinations.
Even close to the city, Saarland offers a natural place to relax. The jungle at the gates of the state capital Saarbrücken is a forest as it once was. Fallen trees, moss and washed-out paths make hikers stop and take a deep breath. Thanks to the new forest information center and the many environmental education courses, younger visitors also have the opportunity to learn about nature conservation in a playful way. Special highlight: The hidden former mining dump “Little Fuji”.
HANG OUT AND SWITCH OFF – HIKING WITH A HAMMOCK
Want to take a break surrounded by cracking trees and under a dense canopy of leaves? This works particularly well in Saarland thanks to the signposted dangling stations. You can rent hammocks at a total of five rental stations so that you can take a comfortable rest on the corresponding hiking trail.
Environmentally friendly mobility for a sustainable travel destination
The land of short distances offers an extensive network of cycling and hiking trails. With the SaarlandCard, guests of participating accommodation providers can explore the surrounding area using public transport and experience over 100 attractions in Saarland free of charge.
Enjoy regionally
The unique regional culture of enjoyment is not only shaped by its direct proximity to France. The local products and their producers and restaurateurs work closely together to bring them to the plate as culinary experiences. This means short transport routes and a large network for processing medlar, wine, oils, nuts and much more directly from the field to the table.
Sustainably certified accommodation
One of the best wellness hotels in all of Germany is committed to sustainability and is located in Saarland. With a view over the blue Bostalsee Seezeitlodge sheltered on a hill in the countryside. The focus on the power of nature and Celtic healing powers make relaxing between the vastness of the lake and the security of the forest a unique experience.
The Victor's Hotels are at home in five locations in Saarland: twice in the state capital, once at Bostalsee, once in the border triangle and once in charming Saarlouis. Although all houses belong to the same family, none are the same - from chic city hotels to luxurious 5-star superior homes. All houses have been awarded the GreenSign certificate.
Located within walking distance of Saarland's landmark, the Saar loop Buchna's country hotel Saar loop to feel good. Saarland hospitality and comfort go hand in hand here, as does excellent cuisine. The family-run hotel was awarded the green Michelin star for sustainable gastronomy in 2021 and 2022.
In picturesque Bliesgau that means Forest idyll Rabenhorst welcomes its guests. Located in the middle of the Homburg Forest, the hotel with an indoor swimming pool and a view of the countryside offers a place to recharge your batteries and relax. Numerous hiking trails and the largest man-made sandstone caves, the Schlossberghöhlen in Homburg, are not far away.
If you prefer something smaller, you can... Hofgut Dösterhof or by Country house Spanish Settle in and enjoy Saarland warmth paired with good food from the local garden.
No matter which one sustainably certified accommodation The choice is made, the guests can in any case relax and unwind while enjoying culinary delights and being active if they wish. Have fun on your next trip to beautiful Saarland!
© Photos: Hammock: Niels Meiser, forest: Sebastian Lux, Saarschleife, Bliesgau: Kevin Ehm, hammock: Niels Meiser, food shot: Gregor Lengler, Seezeitlodge terrace: Günter Standl
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