Perl lies at the heart of the tri-border region between Germany, Luxembourg and France, stretching from the Moselle Valley to the Saargau. The Moselle landscape, open to the south, gives the area a mild climate. Hiking and culture go hand in hand when planning a trip: certified long-distance trails start in Perl, a cross-border circular trail runs through the region, and gardens and Roman history add further highlights. Which of these themes shapes your stay may also influence your choice of accommodation.
Hiking in the Tri-Border Region
Two certified long-distance trails start in Perl: the Saar-HunsrĂĽck-Steig and the Moselsteig. The MoselleÂł Trail offers a different kind of route: it is 33 kilometres long and forms a circular trail through the German-French-Luxembourg border region. The 33 kilometres describe the circular route, which can be started at various points. Parking and starting points are at the P+R area in Perl-Sehndorf, Perl railway station, the European Museum in Schengen and the Maison de la Nature in Montenach, France. Before setting out, check that your chosen starting point matches the route and confirm current parking and access options.
Garden Art and Roman Heritage
In Perl, the Baroque garden in Nell Park, together with the Palais von Nell dating from 1733, Quirinius Chapel and the parish church, forms an ensemble. The 2,900-square-metre garden combines formal axes with seasonal hedge and flower designs. The axes structure the space, while the seasonal planting provides a different, changing accent.
Nearby in Nennig, the Roman Villa preserves a famous mosaic floor depicting an amphitheatre spectacle. It is still displayed at its original archaeological site and is considered one of the outstanding examples of Gallo-Roman mosaic art.
In the wider Merzig-Wadern travel region, the reconstructed Roman Villa Borg in Perl-Borg is a Roman villa rustica with archaeological treasures. Guided tours are offered there in German, French, English, Dutch and Luxembourgish. The Roman highlights can be distinguished when choosing where to visit: in Nennig, it is the mosaic floor displayed at its original site; in Perl-Borg, it is the reconstructed villa rustica.
Getting There: Road and Rail
From Saarland and Luxembourg, travellers can reach Perl via the Perl/Besch and Perl/Borg exits on the A8. From Trier, the B419 follows the Moselle towards Thionville and Metz. The most suitable road route therefore depends on your starting point; check the road information before setting off.
The municipality of Perl has railway stations in Perl, Besch and Nennig. A regional train runs hourly from Trier Central Station to the stations in Perl, Besch and Nennig. When planning your journey by rail, take your preferred arrival point into account and check the current timetable before departure.
Orchards and Regional Produce
Apple, pear, mirabelle plum, cherry and plum trees grow in orchards around Perl. The fruit is used to make Viez and fruit brandies. So, alongside hiking and culture, fruit growing and its products are among the themes that shape Perl as a travel destination. The products made may vary by producer and season.
Nennig, Weiskirchen, Losheim Am See, Mettlach, Nohn, Wadern, Beckingen, Merzig
For the wider travel guide, see: Merzig-Wadern.
