Close to nature on the Eifelsteig

You start from the centre of Gerolstein. Before actually setting out, you taste wonderfully fresh mineral water from the Helenenbrunnen on the Brunnenplatz. Not for nothing is this idyllic place in the Eifel known the world over for its water – a real export success. Suitably refreshed, you start out on your 23.7 kilometre-long and very demanding stage. The first uphill stretch is reached straightaway: it takes you up a slope to the Löwenburg ruin. This 12th Century hill castle invites you to take a first short rest. On the terrace you can enjoy a breathtaking view over Gerolstein and the Kylltal (Kyll valley).

In all 200 metres above the Kylltal you come to the wooden look-out tower on the Dietzenley. After this climb it is less strenuous. Over gentle slopes the trail winds through the woods around Neroth. From there you walk back into the idyllic valley of the Kleine Kyll, before again climbing 200 metres to cross the summit of the Nerother Kopf and walk in the direction of Daun. Here, too, you are rewarded with impressive views.

Volcanic Eifel pure – an experience for all the senses. The stretch from Daun to Manderscheid again and again offers moments of reflection in natural surroundings. Go on a unique journey of discovery around the Daun maars and take in the picturesque display of natural colours to be found only here. You start in Daun and stroll first through the health park. You now go in the direction of the Gemündener Maar, the smallest of the three maars that you encounter on your trip along the Eifelsteig.

From there you tread in the footsteps of Adolf Dronke, the founder of the Eifelverein (Eifel Society). The tower on the Mäuseberg is named after him. Pause there for a moment and enjoy the view of the Weinfelder Maar. Here a mysterious atmosphere prevails – not for nothing is this maar also called the Totenmaar, the Dead Maar. After rounding the maar you go downhill along a narrow path by the Schalkenmehrener Maar. Past the spectacular stretches along the maars you then go through the woods into the Liesertal (Lieser Valley). Until Manderscheid you do not come across any roads or villages. You become one with nature – that is a holiday for body, mind and soul.

Because of the nature of the paths the third stage is more demanding than the first two. You set out from Manderscheid and walk far from the traffic noise and the hustle and bustle. Take the opportunity for quiet contemplation, renew your energy for the daily routine and forget your cares. The nature path winds over stock and stone through the narrow Liesertal, then runs along the idyllic Ilgenbach brook. With its joyful babble it shows you the way through the picturesque valley.

Then comes a stretch with views that invite you to dream and linger. After about 18 kilometres you reach your goal, Himmerod Abbey. This 12th Century Cistercian monastery is worth a visit, particularly its baroque church. It is a place where you can look back over the day in peace, reflect and return refreshed to your everyday routine.