The best traffic-free bike rides around Großhettingen

The cycle path rides really well

This is a spot with tracks going in all directions on old military trenches. There are transitions of all sizes and at least one small drop.

If you have time, you should visit it.

🛡️ **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.

🧱 **Tour aux Puces** – Thionville's Oldest Building** The **Tour aux Puces** ("Powder Tower") is a medieval fortified tower dating back to the 11th century – and the oldest surviving building in the city. Originally part of a castle complex, it has served over time as a defense tower, a prison, and now houses a **City Museum** with an archaeological collection. 🏺 Inside, you'll find exhibits from Roman, medieval, and early modern periods – from ceramics to weapons to religious objects. The tower probably got its name from a mistranslation from German to French (“Powder Tower” became “Powder Tower”). **Tip:** The tower is cool and quiet – perfect on hot days. From the top, you have a small but excellent view over the old town. Combine it with the Belfry and the Église Saint-Maximin for a historical tour.

🏰 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!

This emblematic 14-sided tower stands on a 2.5 to 3 m high circular foundation, in which many authors have suggested the remains of a Carolingian chapel. The tower is said to have actually been the keep of a castle built by the Counts of Luxembourg in the 16th century, corresponding to the size of the present castle courtyard. It served successively as a residence and last refuge in the event of an attack, as an armory, a prison, and finally, in 1905, as a museum.