Plizio Visual Lab

Wolfspark Werner Freund

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Animal habitat
—°16
Wolfspark Werner Freund (Germany)

Weather…

Highlights of 2026

1

Wolfspark Werner Freund in Merzig, Saarland, is a globally unique research and protection center for wolves, founded in 1977. Its namesake, Werner Freund, dedicated his life to behavioral research on these predators and occasionally lived as a 'wolf among wolves' directly within the packs. Across an area of about 4.5 hectares, the park now hosts seven packs of different wolf species, including European grey wolves, Arctic wolves, timber wolves, and Mongolian wolves. The park's goal is to dismantle prejudices against wolves and provide visitors with in-depth knowledge about their social behavior and ecological role. A notable feature is that admission to the park is free, ensuring that its educational mission is accessible to the general public. The enclosures are designed to mirror natural habitats and provide sufficient space for the animals. Following Werner Freund's death in 2014, his work has been carried on by his wife and a dedicated team, with a continued focus on scientific observation and species conservation.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C115913171919151052
Rain mm675757467068657256656879

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
Wolfspark Werner Freund is open year-round, but the best time for observation is autumn when wolves are especially active preparing their winter coat. In spring, pups may be observed if the pack has offspring.
🌅
Best time of day
Twilight hours - both morning and evening - are good as wolves are naturally most active during these times. On feeding days, which usually take place in the afternoon, the animals can be observed particularly well.
📜
Etiquette
Always keep your distance from the fences and avoid loud noises to prevent stressing the wolves. Feeding or luring the animals is strictly prohibited - observation is done exclusively from a safe distance.
🎒
What to bring
Good binoculars are essential for observing wolves in detail without disturbing them. Warm clothing is advisable, especially during cooler months, as you will be spending extended time outdoors.
🧭
Getting there
Wolfspark is located in Merzig in Saarland and is easily accessible by car via the A8 motorway. There is a parking lot on site, from which you can comfortably walk to the park.
🦌
What to expect
Wolves are shy animals - it may take a while for them to appear, especially in bad weather. Calmness and perseverance are key; settle in a quiet spot and wait.

Geography

Coordinates
49.46200, 6.68500

Facts

  • Founded in 1977 by Werner Freund
  • Area of approximately 4.5 hectares
  • Home to currently 7 wolf packs
  • Admission is free for visitors
  • Over 100,000 visitors annually
  • Guided tours take place every 1st Sunday of the month

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Wolfspark Werner Freund (6)

St. Maria-Magdalena

Parish church in Brotdorf, Germany, with a Romanesque tower and modern nave.

Reis-Berg

Hill in Saarland, part of the Hunsrück foothills, wooded and used for hiking.

NSG Geißenfels

Nature reserve in Saarland, protecting calcareous grasslands and rare plants.

St.Willibrord

Church in Bachem, Losheim am See, dedicated to the Anglo-Saxon missionary Willibrord.

Kalkofen

Restored 19th-century lime kiln in Hargarten, a relic of industrial history.

Galgenberg

Hill in Saarland, formerly an execution site, now wooded.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Who founded the Werner Freund Wolf Park?
The park was founded by the well-known wolf researcher Werner Freund.
Is there an entrance fee?
No, entrance to the park is free for all visitors.
Are there different wolf species?
Yes, you can see Arctic wolves, timber wolves, and European wolves.
When do public tours take place?
Usually, a free guided tour takes place every first Sunday of the month.
Are dogs allowed in the park?
No, dogs are prohibited on the grounds out of consideration for the wolves.
Wolfspark Werner Freund: where is it located?
Wolfspark Werner Freund is located in Saarland, Germany.
Wolfspark Werner Freund: what is there to see?
Highlights include St. Maria-Magdalena, Reis-Berg, NSG Geißenfels.
Wolfspark Werner Freund: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Wolfspark Werner Freund: why is it worth visiting?
Wolfspark Werner Freund in Merzig, Saarland, is a globally unique research and protection center for wolves, founded in 1977.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Europe
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe
More places in Germany →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks

Nature

More places