Eifelsteig viewing platform
Tourismus NRW e.V., Leo Thomas, Eifelsteig viewing platform
Wooded hills at sunrise with patches of fog in some valleys
Tourismus NRW e.V., Panoramic view of the forests surrounding the Rothaarsteig

Where hiking is at its best

Top Trails of Germany

Mirror, mirror on the wall, where are the most beautiful hiking trails in the whole country? With the Rothaarsteig, the Hermannshöhen, the Eifelsteig and the Rheinsteig, four of the “Top Trails of Germany” are located in North Rhine-Westphalia – each one more beautiful than the last. Each has its own exciting history, each has its own special character.

The Eifelsteig offers a wild and romantic experience: under the motto “Where rock and water accompany you”, it covers a total distance of 313 kilometres, taking you through, amongst other places, the only national park in North Rhine-Westphalia where nature reigns supreme. The Hermannshöhen invite you on a journey through (earth) history, with stone monuments here bearing witness to different eras. For instance, the Hermann Monument, towering above the Teutoburg Forest, commemorates a battle between the Romans and the Germanic tribes in the year 9 AD. The Rothaarsteig, on the other hand, focuses on the here and now: this high-altitude trail promises hiking that engages all the senses. Numerous interactive stations along the route from Brilon to Dillenburg invite you to sharpen your awareness of the natural surroundings. The Rheinsteig is legendary, as evidenced by the Drachenfels alone, one of the highlights at the start of the high-altitude trail.

Whichever trail you choose, you’ll experience unspoilt nature, discover fascinating history and find your hiking adventure!

New tips every two months

Insider tips & excursion ideas

Newsletter

Fancy some mail? Then subscribe here to our every two months newsletter with information on special travel offers, selected short tips for short trips and other insider tips for travelling in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Click here to register