Discover Müllenbach: Slate Mining and Village History

In Müllenbach, you can discover the history of slate mining in two different ways: at the cultural centre and outdoors in the Kaulenbach Valley. The Slate Quarry Hiking Trail runs for about 7 km through the slate quarry region. Along the route are old mine entrances and building remains; the area’s distinctive flora and fauna also shape the trail. This brings together a theme from the village’s history with impressions of the landscape. Check trail conditions before setting out.

Slate History at the Old Rectory

The “Old Rectory” cultural centre houses a permanent exhibition and documentation on slate mining. The former rectory has been restored as a museum and also serves as the starting point for guided walks along the Slate Quarry Hiking Trail. The exhibition and trail explore the same subject in different ways: indoors through the documentation, and outdoors along historic traces. Visitor arrangements and guided tour dates may change; check in advance for current options.

The village centre is also a useful landmark: it is home to St. Hubertus Parish Church, built in 1855, and the former rectory. The church building and the rectory’s former use add further aspects of village life to the story of slate mining. Visitors basing their stay in Müllenbach can therefore explore local history both at the cultural centre and around the village centre; the Kaulenbach Valley landscape is another option for a hike.

More to Explore in the Wider Cochem-Zell Destination

The wider Cochem-Zell destination also offers distinct themes to include in your travel plans. The medieval Imperial Castle of Cochem was restored and rebuilt in the Neo-Gothic style by Louis Ravené in the 19th century as part of the Romantic castle revival. Rooms open to visitors include the Knights’ Hall, dining hall, hunting room and ladies’ chamber. The castle’s history is reflected not only in its historical context but also in these specifically named rooms.

For a meal with a fitting historical name, Imperial Castle Cochem offers hearty knights’ banquets on Fridays and Saturdays under the title “Gasterey nach Art der alten Rittersleut” (“Feast in the Manner of the Old Knights”). Check the dates before making firm plans, as the programme may change.

The Jungferweiher offers another perspective on the wider Cochem-Zell destination as an important breeding and resting area for numerous bird species. This role is particularly prominent during spring and autumn migration. The Geierlay Suspension Bridge adds another striking landmark: it is 360 m long and stands 100 m above the Mörsdorfer Bach Valley, between Sosberg in the Cochem-Zell district and Mörsdorf in the Rhein-Hunsrück district.

For many visitor attractions in Cochem-Zell, the visitor programme published in July 2025 lists the relevant bus or train route; many are well connected to the public transport network. Check your specific connection for up-to-date information, as routes can change. When looking for accommodation, it helps to decide on your priorities first: would you like your stay to focus mainly on Müllenbach’s slate mining history, or would you also like to include other themes in the wider Cochem-Zell destination? This will help you focus your search on the experiences that matter for your trip.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Laubach, Landkern, Leienkaul, Illerich, Kaifenheim.

Go to the overview of the wider destination: Kaisersesch.