The Eifel is a region that is largely located in Germany and is a popular holiday destination for Dutch and Belgians. For most Dutch and Belgians, this region can be reached within a few hours by car. In addition, the area also offers a lot of variety, there is a lot of natural beauty and there are natural phenomena that we are not familiar with, such as crater lakes, but there are also historic towns, hiking trails and fast-flowing streams, so the Eifel has something to offer for every holidaymaker. The vast majority of the Eifel is located in Germany, a small part is located in the Belgian East Coast. The Eifel is located north of the famous Moselle Valley in the German states of Rhineland-Palatinate and North Rhine-Westphalia.
Cities and towns in the Eifel
In the Eifel region you will find many historic villages and towns that are definitely worth a visit. Well-known cities and towns in this popular German holiday region are Aachen, Wittlich, Neuerburg, Bitburg and Monschau.
Aachen
This city has approximately a quarter of a million inhabitants and plays an important role in the Eifel as a cultural center. The history of this city, which is located in the northern part of the Eifel region, dates back to 3000 years BC and this cathedral city is also famous for various emperors who had their residence in Aachen, of which Emperor Charlemagne is the best known. Aachen is also a nice city for shopping, while there are several beautiful hiking trails and cycling routes around the city.
Wittlich
Wittlich is located in the southern part of the Eifel and this city is popular because of the beautiful natural beauty in the area, its proximity to the Moselle Valley and the many possibilities it offers to active holidaymakers, with various hiking trails and cycling routes. There is also a very large fair every year, where pigs are prepared on large spits, which attracts visitors from far and wide.
Neuerburg
Neuerburg is located near the Luxembourg border and the German government has given this place in the Eifel the designation of a climatic health resort. The village is located in a very wooded area and the castle from which the village takes its name towers above Neuerburg.
Bitburg
Bitburg is located in the south of the Eifel and is mainly known internationally for the beer that is brewed there. The Bitburger and the saying Bitte ein Bit are well known among beer lovers. The small town is surrounded by beautiful nature and has beautiful walking routes and cycle paths in the area.
Monschau
Monschau is a picturesque town in the Eifel, near the Belgian-German border. It owes its popularity mainly to the beautiful half-timbered houses, narrow picturesque streets, fast-flowing streams, nice shops and restaurants where tasty local (game) dishes can be enjoyed.
Nature in the Eifel
The Eifel has a wide variety of natural beauty, with many rolling hills. The highest point in the Eifel region is the Hohe Acht, this hill is 747 meters high and is located in the Hohe Eifel. In this part you will also find the famous and very beautiful crater lakes that were created by volcanic activity. The last eruption of the volcanoes in the Eifel dates back 10,000 years ago, but research shows that geological activity can still be observed in the region.
Sports activities in the Eifel
Sporty holidaymakers appreciate the many hiking trails and cycling routes in the Eifel. In addition, it is also an area that is relatively close for Dutch people to undertake whitewater activities.
In the Eifel area you will also find the Nürburgring, the famous racing circuit where Formula 1 races have taken place.