The Mettenberg refuge is located in the Selke valley between the Hotel Thalmühle and the Selkemühle.
Over a length of 8 km, the valley is free of car traffic at this point and is wider than in other places. The paved path, which is also used by many cyclists, leads through the nature reserve and allows you to marvel at the unique flora and fauna.
The Selke Valley is home to the largest known tree-nesting swift population in Germany, but it is also the habitat of the wildcat. Above the valley there are many near-natural deciduous forests, but grassland used for grazing or mowing predominates on the valley floor. Reedbeds and willow bushes line the banks, where dippers and kingfishers also breed.
A good starting point is the public parking lot on the avenue in Meisdorf. From there, walk along the Selke river to the refuge, which is located below the Mettenberg. On the way back, you can continue the tour via the Eselstieg up to Falkenstein Castle.
