Kanonenbahn - Adventure Hike in the Zeller Land Region
- start: Umweltbahnhof, 56859 Bullay
- destination: Umweltbahnhof, 56859 Bullay
- difficult
- 23,89 km
- 7 hours
- 202 m
- 219 m
- 91 m
- 80 / 100
- 80 / 100
The impressive railway architecture in the Zellerland region, nestled within the unique wine-growing landscape of the Moselle.
There’s plenty to discover on the adventure trail that winds through the towns of Alf, Briedel, Bullay, Pünderich, Zell (Mosel), and Reil.
The fantastic panoramic view from Marienburg Castle and the Prinzenkopf observation tower—one of the most striking vantage points along the Moselle—makes the railway landscape look like a “Märklin toy world.” As early as 1818, this impressive view captivated the Crown Prince and later King Frederick William IV.
Passing a variety of examples of Prussian transportation and engineering, the 8.5-kilometer-long main route of the themed hiking trail leads from the Bullay Environmental Station over Germany’s first double bridge (1877) for vehicles and trains, across to Marienburg, past the massive Pünderich railway viaduct (1880)—which, with its 92 segmental arches and a length of 786 m, is the longest in Germany—all the way to the Reil train station. Ambitious hikers can continue on the opposite bank of the Moselle via Pünderich, past the former train stations in Briedel, Zell (Mosel), and Zell-Merl, all the way back to the starting point in Bullay along the Kulturweg (a circular hiking trail of approx. 23 km) and explore the remnants of the former Mosel Railway.
Informative display panels explain, on the one hand, the original military-strategic function of this cannon railway from Berlin to Metz with its east-west connections and, on the other hand, its economic and cultural significance for the Moselle region, as well as the Moselle Railway’s role as the so-called “Saufbähnchen” (drinking train). There are interesting insights and views—not just for railroad enthusiasts—as the trail also covers topics typical of the Moselle region, such as viticulture, architecture, flora and fauna, and geology.
Impressions
General information
Directions
Main Route (8.5 km)
Circular Route (23 km)
Safety Guidelines
Your safety is our top priority. By preparing well and following the safety guidelines below, you’ll create the best conditions for a safe outdoor experience.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of drinking water and drink regularly. Especially during hikes and bike rides along the Moselle, the heat can be intense in the summer.
Ticks
Check your body thoroughly after your trip and use a suitable insect repellent if necessary.
Oak processionary moth
Avoid contact with oak processionary moth caterpillars and their webs. The fine stinging hairs can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Check the Weather
Check the current weather forecast before starting your hike or bike ride. In case of thunderstorms, heavy rain, or strong winds, you should postpone your trip or end it early.
Stay on the marked trails
Stay on the marked hiking and biking trails. This helps protect nature and yourself, and avoids unnecessary risks.
Forest Fire Risk
Pay special attention to the current risk of wildfires, especially during the summer months. Avoid open fires and smoking in the forest and in areas with dry vegetation.
Dogs
Please keep dogs on a leash whenever possible and be considerate of wildlife, grazing animals, and other visitors.
Emergency
In an emergency, you can reach emergency services throughout Europe by dialing 112. Provide your location as precisely as possible and, if possible, use your cell phone’s location feature.
Equipment
Sturdy Footwear
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear on hiking trails. Nature trails, slate paths, and steep vineyard trails can be slippery, especially after rain.
Headwear
Wear a hat in warm weather. There are very few shaded areas, especially on the open trails through the vineyards.
Sun protection
Apply plenty of sunscreen with an appropriate SPF and protect yourself from intense sunlight.
Tip
Enjoy a glass of wine at the Drieschhütte, with a magnificent view of the Moselle and the wine-growing village of Pünderich (Open from Good Friday through the end of June, as well as in September and October, on Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and long weekends from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
Getting there
Umweltbahnhof, Bahnhofsplatz 1, D-56859 Bullay
Parking
Parking at the train station, Bullay
Public transit
By car or train to Bullay Station (Bahnhofsplatz 1)
Maps
Zellerland Hiking Map
ISBN 978-3-944620-12-1
Available from Zeller Land Tourismus GmbH, Balduinstr. 44, D-56856 Zell (Mosel), Tel. +49 6542 9622-0, info@zellerland.de,www.zellerland.de
Additional Information
Disclaimer
All trails in the Zeller Land region are carefully maintained. However, trail conditions, closures, or weather conditions may change at short notice. Use of the hiking and biking trails is at your own risk. Please check the current conditions before starting your tour and choose a route that matches your personal fitness level and experience.
Mosellandtouristik GmbH
Kordelweg 1, 54470 Bernkastel-Kues; Phone: 06531/97330
www.moselsteig.de
Zeller Land Tourismus GmbH, Tourist Information
Balduinstraße 44, 56856 Zell (Mosel); 06542/96220
www.zellerland.de
Weather
This tour is presented by: Zeller Land Tourismus GmbH