The best traffic-free bike rides around Gauwies

If you have time, you should visit it.

🏰 **Rodemack – A Medieval Village Gem in Lorraine** **Rodemack** is one of the most beautiful villages in France (*Les Plus Beaux Villages de France*) – a lovingly preserved **medieval ensemble** near the border with Luxembourg and Germany. Surrounded by an almost completely preserved **city wall**, the town transports visitors back to centuries past. 🚪 Narrow streets, sandstone-colored houses, the **Château de Rodemack**, the **Porte de Sierck** city gate, and the well-kept **monastery garden** make the town an atmospheric destination for strolls and photo tours. 🎭 In summer, **historical festivals**, markets, and cultural events take place regularly – always with local charm. **Tip:** It's worth arriving early – then Rodemack lies peacefully in the morning sun and reveals its full charm. Ideal for a leisurely tour with historical flair.

🛡️ **Ouvrage de Kobenbusch – Mighty Fortification of the Maginot Line** The **Ouvrage de Kobenbusch**, located south of Cattenom near the Luxembourg border, is one of the large underground fortifications of the **Maginot Line**. It was built between 1930 and 1935 and consisted of several combat blocks, underground connecting tunnels, a barracks, ammunition depots, and machine rooms – on several levels, anchored deep in the limestone. ⚙️ Particularly noteworthy: The technical systems were designed to be self-sufficient for months – including power generation, ventilation, a kitchen, and a hospital. The fort was occupied without a fight during World War II, continued to be used in part after the war, and is now privately owned. 🚷 It's **not open to the public**, but some ventilation towers and blockhouses are still visible in the forest near the D64 road (between Cattenom and Berg-sur-Moselle). **Tip:** For Maginot fans, a walk through the forest is worthwhile – with a little research, you'll find several bunker remains. Respect barriers, as some entrances are unstable or secured.

🛡️ **Ouvrage du Galgenberg – A Deep Look into the Maginot Line** The **Ouvrage de Galgenberg** is a large underground fortification of the **Maginot Line**, located south of Cattenom. It was built between 1930 and 1935 and served to defend the French border against Germany. The complex consists of several **combat bunkers**, **barracks**, **tunnels**, and **supply facilities** located deep underground. During the Cold War, the fort was modernized and remained in active use until the 1980s. 🔦 Today, it is accessible for guided tours (registration only), including a view of the original equipment: rails, power supply, ventilation systems, and gun emplacements. **Tip:** Ideal for military and history buffs – bring warm clothing, as it's chilly inside! Guided tours with former soldiers or experts are particularly impressive.

🏰 Château de Malbrouck (Manderen-Ritzing) A magnificent 15th-century hilltop castle, once the first settlement of Marlborough ("Malbrouck") in 1705. Today, it has been lovingly restored (1991–1998) and is home to changing exhibitions, festivals, and medieval events. Tip: Combine your visit with a walk around the castle—take time to admire the towers, exhibitions, and seasonal events. Ideal for families, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts!

The Roman Villa Borg is a fascinating open-air archaeological museum. Built as a fully reconstructed villa rustica based on a Roman model, it provides visitors with an authentic picture of life in the Roman Empire. The complex features faithful replicas and archaeological finds that bring the past to life. A special highlight is the Roman tavern, where you can enjoy historical dishes. The workshops also offer unique insights into ancient craftsmanship, which you can experience up close.

Berg Castle, built on a hill above the town of Nennig, consists of two connected former moated castles. The lower castle is privately owned and is gradually falling into disrepair, while the upper castle, converted into a palace during the Renaissance, houses a hotel, a restaurant, and a casino. The upper castle, incidentally, was almost completely destroyed in World War II, rebuilt by the Saarland in the 1950s, and used as a school camp for about 30 years. It was only converted into a hotel in the late 1980s. Details about the history online: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Berg_(Saarland)

Very beautiful castle with sometimes exciting exhibitions and events. At an event organized by the University of Metz, I was able to experience an interesting tour there with a great dinner in the large hall. The meal was accompanied by a lute ensemble.