Saarburg

The ruins of Saarburg fortress offer a wonderful panoramic view from above.

Down below, the 1,000-year-old city with its half-timbered architecture and Baroque buildings enchants visitors from around the world.

Saarburg is a jewel and a beloved destination, especially by nice weather. There are many cafes and restaurants around the handsome marketplace, offering spots to sit and observe.

The main attraction, the waterfall, cascades down almost 20 meters right in the middle of the old city.

Back in the Middle Ages, a local waterway called the Leukbach was diverted into the city to allow for the harnessing of its waters.

Even today it pushes the wheels of Hackenberg Mill — although the latter is now a museum. The old city abounds in colourful fisherman's and bargeman’s houses that form a single boundless sightseeing paradise.

Many of its lanes have a Mediterranean flair, with narrow rows of houses sitting along the water atop powerful oak pillars. It’s a look that has earned Saarburg the fond title of “Little Venice”.

The former bell foundry is another sight well worth taking in.

As is the old prince elector’s mill, located directly on the waterfall. It houses the “Amüseum”, a fascinating municipal museum dedicated to traditional trades.