Hocheifel Loop Trail: Adenau – Hohe Acht – Nürburg – Adenau

This scenic hike takes you to the highest point in the Eifel, the Hohe Acht, at 747 meters above sea level. The Nürburg Castle ruins are another highlight; just like the Kaiser Wilhelm Tower, they offer a fantastic view of the entire Eifel region.

In addition to the historical sights that await you during this approximately 25-kilometer hike, you can also get a taste of the racing atmosphere along the “Green Hell.” The Hocheifel Loop is a varied and exciting hiking trail for explorers of all ages.

Highlights along the way:

The first leg of this approximately 25-kilometer loop trail leads from Adenau to the Hohe Acht, which, at 747 meters above sea level, is the highest peak in the Eifel. Starting at Dr.-Creutz-Platz, the trail climbs steadily, mostly through shady forests, to the landmark on the basalt summit of the former Tertiary volcano: the Kaiser Wilhelm Tower, built in 1908–09. The tower was built to commemorate the silver wedding anniversary of Emperor Wilhelm II and Empress Auguste Viktoria, as well as to honor the memory of Emperor Wilhelm I. From the historic tower, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the beautiful Eifel landscape, which, on a clear day, extends as far as the Siebengebirge and Cologne Cathedral. The rest of the route to Nürburg runs along the Ahr/Moselle watershed and therefore involves hardly any elevation changes. Above the town of Nürburg, it’s worth visiting the Nürburg Castle ruins, the highest castle in Rhineland-Palatinate (676 m above sea level). On the final stretch, the descent to Adenau is not strenuous. Forest trails alternate with open areas and beautiful views. Shortly thereafter, the route follows the race track past the Schwedenkreuz. Here, you have the opportunity to watch the race car drivers on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring. The route continues through the Adenauer Forest back to the center of Adenau.

Stage
Adenau – Hohe Acht with the Kaiser Wilhelm Tower 9 km
Hohe Acht with the Kaiser Wilhelm Tower – Nürburg 8.5 km
Nürburg – Adenau 7 km