Discover Gees: Drees, Church and Scheiwe Sonndesch

Gees offers several distinct points of interest: an iron-rich mineral spring, St. Nicholas Church and its architectural history, the recurring Scheiwe Sonndesch custom, and a protected trilobite field. This range of themes extends from a spring that is freely accessible year-round to an event scheduled according to the carnival calendar. Natural history, local history and customs offer different perspectives if you are considering Gees as a destination for a stay. The spring provides a year-round attraction, while the custom adds a seasonal occasion.

The Gees Drees

The Gees Drees is an iron-rich artesian mineral spring set in a sandstone surround. Artesian describes a spring where water rises due to underground pressure. The water’s iron content is another distinctive feature. You can taste the water, and the spring is freely accessible year-round. Unlike Scheiwe Sonndesch, whose date depends on the carnival calendar, a visit to the spring is not tied to a specific weekend. The sandstone surround is another visible feature of the Drees, in addition to the properties of its water.

St. Nicholas Church: History and Building Phases

St. Nicholas Church is the historic center of Gees; its history is documented as far back as 1580. The former east tower has been preserved, and a new building was added in 1904. The two dates serve different purposes: 1580 refers to the documented history, while 1904 marks a later architectural addition. The church thus combines its historic importance to Gees with a building history shaped by several periods. For those interested in local history and architecture, this sequence offers a distinct perspective on the village.

Scheiwe Sonndesch: A Custom After Carnival

In Gees, the recurring custom of driving out winter is called Scheiwe Sonndesch. On the first weekend after carnival, after dark, a burning wheel wrapped in straw is rolled down the Baarlay. The event is defined both by its evening setting and its place in the calendar. Because the carnival date changes, the exact weekend also shifts from year to year. If you would like to plan your trip around this custom, check the dates for the relevant year.

Gees Trilobite Field and Geological History

The Gees Trilobite Field is a protected natural area associated with systematic fossil excavations. Exceptionally well-preserved specimens have made their way into museums and collections around the world. The fossil theme thus complements the history of the church and local customs with a natural-history perspective and extends beyond the village. For travelers interested in geological history, the trilobite field is a distinct point of connection with Gees. The finds give Gees’ geological history a regional significance.

Getting to the Gees Drees

From Gerolstein, take the B410 toward Pelm, then continue on the K33 to Gees. A parking area is indicated near the fire station by the “Zum Drees” sign; from there, a footpath leads to the spring. Plan for both the drive and the final stretch on foot. As road and parking conditions can change, it is advisable to check current information before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Pelm, Kopp, Mürlenbach, Salm, Rockeskyll, Oos, Kalenborn-Scheuern, Hinterhausen

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