Brandenbusch Forest and Quarry Loop
Brandenbusch Forest and Quarry Loop
4.2
(24)
75
hikers
Brandenbusch Forest and Quarry Loop
03:37
13.0km
220m
Hiking
Hike a moderate 8.1-mile loop through the Forest of Brandenbusch, featuring old mine remnants, diverse terrain, and panoramic views.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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1.14 km
Our Lady of Brandenbusch
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4.49 km
Witches' Pool
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7.28 km
On the trail of limestone quarrying
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7.41 km
Tunnel in the quarry
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9.56 km
Bench With View of Alsting
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13.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.24 km
2.58 km
1.33 km
1.23 km
524 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
7.44 km
1.79 km
1.77 km
1.67 km
271 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (370 m)
Lowest point (210 m)
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Weather
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Tuesday 26 May
31°C
14°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Forest of Brandenbusch and old mine loop?
The starting point of the route is conveniently located right next to a parking lot in Grosbliederstroff, making access straightforward.
Is this trail dog-friendly?
Yes, this trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially in areas where wildlife might be present or near roads.
What is the best time of year to hike this loop?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also good, but be prepared for warmer weather.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this hike?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Forest of Brandenbusch and old mine loop.
How difficult is the Forest of Brandenbusch and old mine loop?
The trail is rated as moderate. While it features an elevation gain of about 220 meters, the paths are generally accessible, making it suitable for most skill levels with a good level of fitness.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?
You'll encounter a diverse mix of terrain, including significant portions of unpaved paths (7.44 km), as well as gravel (1.79 km), natural (1.77 km), and asphalt (1.67 km) sections. The route includes dedicated hiking paths, footpaths, and some road sections.
What are the main points of interest along the trail?
The loop offers several notable features, including the scenic Our Lady of Brandenbusch with views of the upper Saar, the mystical Witches' Pool, and the historical On the trail of limestone quarrying site with its crumbling ruins and an adventurous Tunnel in the quarry.
How long does it typically take to complete the loop?
The loop typically takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes to complete, covering a distance of approximately 13 kilometers.
Is this a loop trail?
Yes, as the name suggests, the Forest of Brandenbusch and old mine is a loop trail, bringing you back to your starting point.
Does the trail connect with other hiking paths?
Yes, sections of this route overlap with other official trails. You will find yourself on parts of the Saarwanderweg / Sentier de la Sarre (32% of the route) and the Voie Romaine (4% of the route).
Are there any viewpoints along the way?
Absolutely! One of the highlights is a Bench With View of Alsting, which offers expansive panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding hills.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
🟢Original route name in Komoot: "Brandenbusch Forest and Old Mine – Loop from Grosbliederstroff"
For the first time I followed a tour suggestion on Komoot: (Forêt de Brandenbusch and old mine) I'm torn. On the one hand I discovered lost places that I didn't know about, namely the old limestone quarry near Alsting, but on the other hand the route criss-crosses logging roads, wild boar paths and cross-country, so I think the author tied the GPS tracker to his hunting dog and let him do his thing. There are no signs anywhere and without GPS you're lost. For me it was an experience that I no longer need. I'm looking forward to the next mapped and marked hike🤗🙋♂️
The tour started in the center of Grosbliederstroff and then went up the hill to the Chapel of St. Mary, with a wonderful view of Kleinblittersdorf and Sarreguemines. The first few meters in the forest were wide paths, and there was an unusually busy area. Then came narrower paths and with them the disaster, the total mud. Snow clearing vehicles and rain complemented each other perfectly here. The highlight was the view of the Vosges when I left the forest and walked across meadows. Shortly before the turning point there was a section of nature reserve and then the most beautiful section of the hike. There used to be a lime mine there and the lime was transported away in lorries. The remains of this railway are still there and you can walk wonderfully on the railway line. Unfortunately there was another muddy stretch before I reached the chapel again. I then took the way back along the Saar, or rather the canal, and almost had a café au lait in the Côté Canal, if it hadn't been so busy. Then I went to the Ulanen Pavilion 😆