Eifelsteig

A crossing of the volcanic Eifel, the Eifelsteig runs about 313 km from Aachen near the Belgian border south to Trier on the Moselle, traversing the wooded uplands and crater lakes of one of Germany's most distinctive volcanic regions. It takes most walkers around fifteen days.

The Eifel's volcanic past shapes the scenery: circular maar lakes filling ancient craters, the high moors of the Hohes Venn, sandstone gorges, and the ordered vineyards of the Moselle at the southern end. Old abbeys, the Roman heritage of Trier and quiet forest villages give the route a calm, cultural character between the natural highlights.

Walking is moderate, on good forest and field paths with rolling climbs rather than mountains, and the route is meticulously waymarked to German premium-trail standards. Guesthouses and small hotels in the villages along the way provide beds and meals, so camping is not needed, and no permit is required. Several stages cross the Eifel National Park, where walkers keep to marked paths.

Opened in 2009, the Eifelsteig linked the region's volcanic landmarks and border heritage into a single certified route, part of a wave of new German quality trails. The best season is April to October; late spring brings wildflowers to the Hohes Venn moors, and autumn colours the beech forests and Moselle vines. The high moorland can be wet and cool even in summer, so waterproof footwear is wise.