Eifel

Great for Hiking and Cycling in a Delightful Nature Reserve in Germany

The Eifel is a beautiful low mountain range in Germany. It lies in a kind of triangle between Aachen, Koblenz and Echternach. With forests, castles and historic villages with half-timbered houses. The highest point is the Hohe Acht with 747 meters. It is a wonderful area to discover, there is more than enough to do.

The Eifel is a large forested area with beeches, rivers, streams, hills and big dams. The area has a lot to offer. These are the sights and attractions. With also various excursions such as hiking.

Eltz Castle

Beautiful light over Eltz Castle.

Eltz Castle is a castle in the Eltzerbos. It is a typical German knight's castle, which is in remarkably good condition. You can find it near Wierschem in Germany. The castle is located in a valley in the Moselle. There is a lovely walk to the castle.

Read my article about Eltz Castle

Cochem

The city of Cochem with its castle.

The town of Cochem is well known. It is located on the river Moselle and is recognizable by the castle on top of the hill. This dates back to the 13th century and was supposed to protect the city. You can visit the castle on a guided tour. The church of Saint Martin in Cochem is also worth a visit.

Accommodations in the Eifel

If you want to fully enjoy this region, you should stay here for a few nights. This is possible in towns like Cochem, but also in nature, for example. I slept in several locations to be able to visit all the attractions.

Eifel National Park

The Rursee in Eifel National Park.

Part of the Eifel has been a national park since 2004. It’s been known by walkers, cyclists and nature lovers for centuries.

The area is especially suitable for hiking. There are special wilderness trails. You will also find numerous bike paths to explore. And also various reservoirs such as the Rursee, Obersee and Urftsee.

You will find the nature reserve between Nideggen in the north and Gemünd in the south, and the Belgian border in the west.

Hiking in Eifel National Park

There are over 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. You can choose from routes ranging from a few kilometers to several days. Most of it is fairly flat and along the way you will come across several picnic spots.

Wildlife in Eifel National Park

A toad in Eifel National Park.

You can encounter wildlife in the nature reserve. Think of the lynx, wolf, wild cat, red deer and black stork. But most animals are shy and rarely show themselves. You can be lucky, especially if you go out early in the day.

Other Villages

Half-timbered houses in Eifel National Park.

There are several monumental villages in the Eifel. For example, you will find many half-timbered houses here. In particular, the town of Monschau and Monreal, which is slightly further away, are more than worth a visit. These towns are wonderful to stay and to rest after a day of hiking.

Hohe Acht

The highest point in the Eifel is the Hohe Acht with 747 meters. On top is the Kaiser-Wilheml-Turm. This tower was built in 1909 to serve as a watchtower for Kaiser Wilhelm II. This hill is perfect for walking, there are several hiking trails.

Some of them also go to the 678 meter adjacent hill. Nürburg Castle stands on this high volcanic cone. You will find the Hohe Acht near Adenau.

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