Eifelleiter Section 1

The Eifelleiter starts at the Rhine promenade in Bad Breisig. From there, it leads the hikers out of the spa gardens, past the Roman thermal baths, and into the tranquility of nature. Here, it is well worth taking look back over your shoulder to enjoy the incredible views of the Rhine Valley. Shortly after the ascent, you will cross a Celtic hilltop settlement. Enjoy the spectacular views of the castles Schloss Arenfels and Burg Rheineck. Even the castle ruin of Hammerstein is visible in the South. Now that you have completed your first climb, the redesigned rest area will feel like a welcome chance to stay and relax. The route then continues towards Mönchsheide (“Monks’ Heath”), which received its name because of the monks from the Marienstatt Abbey in the Westerwald Mountains who used to cultivate it. On weekends you can observe the many gliders being pulled up into the air by winches at the small airfield. Here, the estate restaurant Gutshof Mönchsheide offers an excellent opportunity t . o rest and savor the local cuisine.

Passing through the characteristic landscape of the Breisiger Ländchen and through a game reserve, the Eifelleiter starts gaining altitude. A small town with a picturesque church will soon appear. After crossing through meadows, fields, and idyllic forest areas, you will begin your geological adventure: a dance on the Bausenberg. The Bausenberg is Germany’s best-preserved horseshow-shaped crater and home to many rare species of plants and animals; a fascinating way to finish the first Eifelleiter section that will keep you craving for more.