The extensive social program will give the participants the opportunity to get to know one another other in an informal setting. During our excursions, we will explore the Saarland and the surrounding region. We will visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as other highlights. The costs for the social program (excluding food and drinks) are covered by the participation fee.
To date, the intended excursions will see the following sites.

UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site "Völklinger Hütte" – historical ironworks located in the industrial town of Völklingen

The Völklinger Hütte is a former ironworks built in 1873 by the iron and steel engineer Julius Buch. Until its blast furnaces were shut down in 1986, this site was pivotal to the Saarland’s success as an industrial state. In 1994, the Völklinger Hütte was classified by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site. This site was the first monument of heavy industry to be awarded this status – previously, only sacred buildings, castles, fortifications or historical city centers had been awarded this honour. Today, the former industry plant is hosting a museum where visitors are welcome to learn about the Saarland’s industrial past. Visitors are also invited to climb down deeply into the dark corridors of the burden shed, or climb up highly to the blast furnace viewing-platform.

Please, find further information on the Völklinger Hütte at voelklinger-huette.org (German, English and French versions available).

Excursion "Beauties of the Saarland"

The excursion "Beauties of the Saarland" will take us to the "Saarschleife" – a horseshoe-shaped loop of river Saar and one of the Saarland's most famous landmarks. It is to be found 50 kilometres from Saarbrücken, near the pictur-esque town of Mettlach. There, it is also possible to climb the lookout “Cloef”, experience the 1,250 m “Treetop Walk Saarschleife” and enjoy the spectacular view over the Saarschleife from the appurtenant observation tower.

Please find further information and some impressions of the Saarschleife on the website of the Mettlach Tourist Information at tourist-info.mettlach.de (German language only).