Saarschleife Markt Mettlach

Mettlach – Gateway to the Saarschleife

Mettlach, in the northern district of Merzig-Wadern, is one of Saarland's best-known tourist destinations. Located directly on the iconic Saarbogen – the "Saarschleife" near Orscholz, that 180-degree bend in the Saar River, which adorns every postcard as a symbol of Saarland – lies the municipality with just under 11,000 inhabitants. The company Villeroy & Boch also has its world-famous headquarters here; the Alte Abtei Mettlach serves as both the corporate and brand center. In summer, the central market square becomes a stage for themed markets several times a year – one of these is the Saarschleife Markt.

What Makes the Market Special

The Saarschleife Markt is not a typical weekly market with fruit and vegetables, but a curated themed market focusing on household, fashion, and lifestyle. Over 20 exhibitors present a clearly defined range of products:

• Household goods (kitchenware, tools, steel goods)
• Fashionable textiles (women's, men's, and children's clothing)
• Leather goods and shoes
• Jewelry and costume jewelry
• Brushes and brooms (a specialty traditionally found at Saarland markets)
• Decorative items for home and garden

In addition, there is a snack stand offering hearty snacks and small delicacies – Saarland classics like Bratwurst, fries, Flammkuchen, and cold drinks.

Location and Atmosphere

Mettlach's market square is located in the historic town center, directly between the Alte Abtei (Villeroy & Boch headquarters) and the Saar riverbank. The atmosphere is relaxed – a mix of local regulars, day-trippers stopping by on their way to the Saarschleife, and weekend strollers from Saarbrücken, Trier, and the Luxembourg region. The opening hours from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm make the market an easy day trip destination.

Embedded in Mettlach's Market Year

The Saarschleife Markt is part of a market calendar that takes place several times a year on Mettlach's market square: Easter market in spring, Saarschleife Markt in summer, and other themed markets in autumn and winter (e.g., the Advent market). The municipality of Mettlach and Saarschleife Touristik have recognized and expanded this market series as a tourist profiling tool.

Around the Market: A Day Trip

Anyone visiting the market should extend their day to include Mettlach's main attractions: the Cloef viewpoint above the Saarschleife (4 km away, breathtaking view), the Saarschleife Treetop Walk, the Villeroy & Boch Experience Center in the Alte Abtei, and the extensive Saar Cycle Path, which is ideal for families. Mettlach is one of the few places in Saarland where a market stroll can be combined with a genuine nature experience.