Hocheifel circular route: Adenau - Hohe Acht - Nürburg - Adenau

The very scenic hike takes you to the highest point of the Eifel, the Hohe Acht at 747 m above sea level. The castle ruin Nürburg is another highlight, which, just like the Kaiser Wilhelm Tower, offers a fantastic view over the entire Eifel region.

Besides the historical sights that await you during the approximately 25 km long hike, you can also catch a bit of racing atmosphere along the Green Hell. The Hocheifel circular route is a varied and exciting hiking trail for both big and small explorers.

Highlights along the way:

This approximately 25 km long circular route leads in the first stage from Adenau to the Hohe Acht, the highest peak of the Eifel at 747 m above sea level. Starting from Dr.-Creutz-Platz, the path steadily climbs 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 reason for constructing this stone observation tower was the silver wedding anniversary of Emperor Wilhelm II and Empress Auguste Victoria, as well as the commemoration of Emperor Wilhelm I. From the listed tower, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the beautiful Eifel panorama, which, in clear weather, extends to the Siebengebirge and the Cologne Cathedral. The further route to Nürburg runs along the Ahr/Moselle watershed and therefore has hardly any elevation differences to overcome. Above the village of Nürburg, a visit to the Nürburg Castle Ruin, the highest castle in Rhineland-Palatinate (676 m above sea level), is worthwhile. On the last section, the descent back to Adenau is not strenuous. The route alternates between forest sections, open areas, and beautiful views. Soon it passes along the racetrack past the Schwedenkreuz. Here you have the opportunity to watch the racers on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring. The route then continues through the Adenauer Forest back to the town center of Adenau.

Stages
Adenau - Hohe Acht with Kaiser Wilhelm Tower        9 km
Hohe Acht with Kaiser Wilhelm Tower - Nürburg    8.5 km
Nürburg - Adenau                                                          7 km