Ahrsteig Trail
A hiking trail that links the Eifel with the Rhine
At 100 kilometres, the Ahrsteig is one of the shorter long-distance hiking trails in Germany. But when it comes to variety it can more than hold its own.
100 kilometres long, the AhrSteig in the Eifel is one of the shorter long-distance hiking trails. Nevertheless, it matches its longer brethren stride for stride in terms of variety.
Although four out of the hiking trail’s seven stages were affected by the July 2021 flood, repairs and rerouting along other attractive trails have returned it to full use again.
100 km worth of variety
Nature enthusiasts can experience what makes hikers’ hearts beat faster on about 100 varied kilometres along the AhrSteig route that passes vast vistas of meadows and forests, bizarre rock formations, steep vineyard terraces, medieval castle ruins, and narrow paths to summit crosses and observation towers.
There is one thing that anyone about to set out should be aware of beforehand: Though there are sections to catch one’s breath in between, this tour is not going to be an easy one as it keeps going steeply uphill at intervals. The effort is well worth it, though. Once you have managed the climb, you will be rewarded by some truly impressive views.
High on the Birker Berg
This applies to the first stage already, starting out in Blankenheim in the Eifel and covering about eleven kilometres. It ends at the shores of Lake Freilingen, a popular nature and recreation area. Impressive vistas are found on the Birker Berg whose plateau crossed by the trail.
The second stage is even more demanding, as hikers leave North Rhine-Westphalia on the way to Aremberg in Rhineland-Palatinate. Keep on going and look forward to the beautiful views along the way.
Passing through idyllic forests and orchards, the way to the destination is perfectly enjoyable as well. Once at the top, good weather will afford a view all the way to the Ardennes or even the majestic Nürburg Castle.
Seven sections
While the AhrSteig route is officially divided into seven sections, that doesn’t mean that one cannot take a break any earlier or later than that. The “Qualitätsgastgeber Wanderbares Deutschland” sites are catering to the needs of hikers specifically, and as such are particularly good resting places. While the flood damage leaves only a few hosts open for overnight stays along the trail still, the destroyed operations are working at full speed to return to business and welcome hiking enthusiasts again soon.
Learn more at www.ahrsteig.de
