Designation of a route approximately 7 km long in the area of the northern part of the Kirkeler Forest considering different types of paths along former facilities of the “Westwall”, i.e., fortified military positions built between 1938 and 1940 in the run-up to the war with France on the Saar using the terrain features. The Kirkeler/Pirmanns Forest had a special importance due to its geographical location and formation (defense line and deployment area). Due to the use of large parts especially of the forest areas, the landscape character and the population’s relationship to their home environment fundamentally changed: what was once a reference area and part of cultural identity became an off-limit danger zone overnight.
Today, the ruins of these fortified positions become part again of the landscape into which an inhuman regime intervened for a war of aggression. The different aspects associated with these remnants are to be made accessible via a companion program for smartphones (app). This avoids signage in the forest, and cross-references to internet offers are possible. This companion app includes five different theme complexes that can be vividly accessed with concise explanations at ten different stations along the trail. Planning and creation is carried out by a working group of the local heritage and tourism association involving representatives of the Saarland Museum Association, the LAG Memories Work, Westwall historians, and the BUND Saar. Completion is planned for early 2023.
Autorentipp
Read on the installed sign at the Pfälzerwald-Haus about the origin and history of the path and look closely in the forest to find the remnants of the Westwall.
Refreshment option:
Pfälzerwald-Haus,
Am Turnplatz 50, 66459 Kirkel-Neuhäusel
Internet: https://www.pwv-kirkel.de/
Tel.: 0 68 49 - 15 38
Wegbeschreibung
The starting point of this route is the Pfälzerwald-Haus in Kirkel at the former gymnastic field in Kirkel-Neuhäusel. Behind the Pfälzerwald-Haus in Kirkel, the path begins to the right into the forest until it reaches the country road between Kirkel-Neuhäusel and Rohrbach. From there it continues into the forest towards Löffelsberg. Left and right in the forest, remnants of former bunkers are occasionally hidden. So it is definitely worth looking closely. The hiking trail partly leads over paths but also for a longer time over wider forest roads until it arrives back at the former gymnastic field.
Ausrüstung
All important information about equipment can be found in our packing list.
Sicherheitshinweise
Attention:
Entering the forest and walking on the hiking trails is always at your own risk.
Due to seasonal or weather conditions, increased surefootedness is required on some trail sections.
Please therefore wear clothing and hiking boots with appropriate soles suitable for the season and weather.
TOGETHER WITH RESPECT
Friendliness, understanding, and consideration for each other is a fundamental principle for the partner-like use of our natural area. The code of conduct is:
Use existing paths, follow the signage and respect path closures
Leave no traces such as rubbish or dog waste and treat the path carefully
Respect other users of the forest and countryside
Take care of animals and plants
Plan ahead and use daylight
DISCLAIMER:
Despite repeated checking and careful preparation of the trail descriptions, the publisher assumes no liability for the accuracy and completeness of the information in this description.
USAGE NOTE:
Dear hiking friends, the hiking trails also lead along natural paths through untouched nature reserves and forests. Preserving and protecting nature is an important concern for us.
We also want to point out the risks and therefore ask you to stay on the designated paths and for safety reasons not to step on existing rock formations. Furthermore, we indicate the presence of natural forest hazards. Due to weather conditions, some parts of the path can be soft and slippery and should therefore be approached with particular caution. Sturdy footwear is recommended on all routes, and surefootedness is essential.
Use of the hiking trails and premium trails is at your own risk.
MARKING AND SIGNAGE:
All quality paths are circular routes that can be traveled in both directions. Therefore, signage is in both directions. Try going around the circuit the other way and you will discover completely new perspectives and different viewpoints.
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