The Kliding Waterfall, also known as SchieĂźlay, plunges around 28 metres and is considered the highest waterfall in the Eifel. It is part of the Klidinger Bach, which rises just south of the village and flows into the Erdenbach below the waterfall.
Hiking and Natural Attractions
A marked trail leads from Kliding through the Maiwald forest to the waterfall. The village is also a starting point for hikes to the maars. The circular route from Kliding includes a shelter and a climbing section; sturdy footwear and sure footing are required for this hike.
The HeimatSpur Wasserfall-Erlebnisroute is considered a difficult, 13.3-kilometre hike. It is a circular route starting in Bad Bertrich and leads to the Kliding Waterfall; along the way, it passes through rocky gorges and over high ground between Kennfus and Bad Bertrich. In 2023, the Wasserfall-Erlebnisroute was selected as Germany’s most beautiful hiking trail. Check the latest route details and conditions before setting out.
Different details matter when choosing a hike: the Kliding circular route involves a climbing section and requires sure footing, while the HeimatSpur is rated as difficult and has a specified route length.
Landscape and Local History
Kliding lies in the Moselle Heights of the Volcanic Eifel. In addition to hikes to the maars, the Sommeterweg offers another local point of reference: a natural setting lies about 250 metres from the edge of the village.
The Catholic Church of St. Wendelin is a neo-Gothic hall church dating from 1861/62; its west tower was built in 1904. The church and tower represent two different periods in Kliding’s history.
Customs and Culture
Local customs include the baking festival, which has been held every year on the second weekend in May since 1984. Traditionally, bread dough is baked in the Backes, a communal bakehouse, or in old stone ovens. If you are planning to attend, check the exact festival dates for your year of travel.
Since its introduction, the Deppekooche festival has regularly featured in Kliding’s events. The Maypole is erected on the eve of 1 May; a fir or spruce from the local municipal forest is used for it.
A 2020 report describes a theatre that opened in a former cowshed at Sommeterweg 1. The 30-square-metre venue hosted a variety of evening events. If you are planning to attend an event, check the current programme.
In the wider destination of Cochem-Zell
Cochem Castle is also located in the wider destination of Cochem-Zell. In the 19th century, Louis Ravené had it restored and rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style as part of the castle revival movement. The interior rooms open to visitors include the Knights’ Hall, dining room, hunting room and Kemenate.
For getting around the wider destination of Cochem-Zell, many tourist attractions are also well connected to the public transport network. The visitor programme published in July 2025 lists suitable bus or train routes for the respective destinations. Check the current connection to your specific destination before travelling.
Where to Stay in Kliding
For visitors, Kliding’s two inns and holiday apartments are worth considering. Availability may change, so check what is on offer for your travel dates.
Discover more destinations: Zell, Kaisersesch, Ulmen, Walhausen, Cochem, Filz, DĂĽngenheim, Grenderich
Return to the wider travel guide: Cochem-Zell.
