The 5 most beautiful activities in the Eifel winter
Active on snow and ice: spontaneous skating magic
You feel the cool wind on your face as your blades glide over the bare ice - with music in your ears and a hot chocolate in your hand, an ordinary winter's day becomes an experience full of lightness. In the south of Bitburg, the traditional beer town with Roman roots, there is a spacious ice rink for ice skating, ice hockey and even figure skating. Don't have your own skates? No problem - rental stations and a small selection of restaurants round off your visit. Particularly atmospheric: the ice disco with light and sound, perfect for a spontaneous winter evening with friends.
Castle magic in the winter mist
When the snow covers the old walls and clouds of fog surround the battlements, the Eifel reveals its fairytale side. Many castles and palaces hibernate in winter - and that is exactly what makes them so special. You are almost alone with history. No crowds, no guided tours, just you, the walls and the silence. Whether Manderscheid, Reifferscheid or the enchanted Bürresheim Castle - everywhere you go you can feel the aura of times gone by, where knights, princesses and monks shaped life.
Enjoy the flair of the old town - without the hustle and bustle
The small half-timbered towns of the Eifel invite you to take a quiet stroll, especially in winter. Stroll through winding alleyways, past charming shops with local crafts and special finds. This slower time of year reveals the true character of the towns - from Monschau to Kronenburg. And when you sit in a warm café, the smell of freshly baked cake in your nose, everyday life feels far away.
Immerse yourself, warm up, recharge your batteries
Winter demands a lot from you. So it's good that there are places where you can recharge your batteries - like the thermal spas in the Eifel. At the Vulkaneifel Therme Bad Bertrich, the history of the earth meets modern wellness. The healing water with natural Glauber's salt is unique in Germany and gives you new energy. Follow in the footsteps of volcanic activity in the adventure saunas.
Completely different, but just as relaxing: the Euskirchen thermal spa with real palm trees, glass architecture and a tropical ambience. Between the warm water, sauna landscape and oases of peace, you will find your own personal winter escape here.
Wanderlust in the winter light
Even in winter, the Eifel is a paradise for all those who not only want to see nature, but also feel it. Clear air, expansive views, crunching ground underfoot - the region's hiking trails are easy to follow even in the cold season and lead you through quiet forests, past fields and bizarre rock formations. Whether on your own or as a multi-day tour with luggage transfer: the routes are well thought out and the offers are reliable. And the experience? Priceless.
Covering two floors, the spa architecture, dominated by wood, glass and stone, creates a health and wellness experience in a dimension of its own. With ample space for relaxation and leisurely bathing enjoyment in the healing 32°C thermal water of Germany's only Glauber salt spa.
Close to the border between the Eifel and the Ardennes in the municipality of Hellenthal is Reifferscheid Castle, first mentioned in 1106, a medieval hilltop castle typical of the Eifel. The current system of castle ruins, outer bailey and fortified castle settlement reflects the change in this former mansion.
The narrow streets of Monreal, its quaint Holy Trinity Church, the massive Nepomuk Bridge over the clear flowing Elzbach and the ruins of Löwenburg and Philippsburg castles high above the town are a perfect destination for an excursion in the eastern Eifel. The red and white half-timbered houses nestle closely together in the former cloth-making town. Not only visually is Monreal an excursion destination that relaxes the soul. Café Plüsch with its cosy interior or the former signal box at the gates of the town are perfect addresses for foodies. The highlight for lovers of handicrafts is the pottery in the old school. Hikers get their money's worth on the Monrealer Ritterschlag hiking trail and are rewarded for the sometimes steep passages with wonderful views.
The ice rink at the Südring (next to the Bitburger brewery) in Bitburg offers a special treat during the cold season. Ice-skating for adults and children is possible six days a week. Gently glide on narrow blades over ice, make curves or turn pirouettes to beautiful music; everyone will enjoy this winter fun.
The castle ruin and fortified settlement of Kronenburg Kronenburg Castle was one of the characteristic medieval hill-castles of the Eifel built on the spur of a ridge in the Upper Kyll Valley. The self-contained impression of the castle ruin, outer bailey and fortified settlement and their adaptation to the topography make the special charm of this site. Kronenburg was first mentioned in a charter of the Abbey Stablo Malmedy in 1277. Today the locality is a touristic attraction in the Upper Kyll Valley.
During the Middle Ages, Schloss Bürresheim palace was actually a castle, in other words, a knight’s residence and a fortress at the same time.
Under the motto “My holiday paradise under palm trees” a vacation world from the absolute premium segment awaits the visitor, embedded in the beautiful scenery of the river meadows Erftauen, adjacent to the Eifel region and not far from popular towns as Bonn, Cologne or Düsseldorf.
In the winter sports area Wolfsschlucht, 3 km northwest of Prüm, there are 1 ski slope, ski-ski lift and cross-country ski runs.
Winter sports region Hohe-Acht/Jammelshofen (550-747 m)In Jammelshofen, immediately next to the Hohe Acht (747 m above sea level) near the world-famous Nürburgring, friends of this cool white sport will find everything their hearts desire:Ski slopes for beginners and advanced skiers of 800 m and 400 m length and 100 m width and an incline of 30-35%. Modern lift facilities and mechanically prepared pistes complete the offer. If there is enough snow, the ski tows are open on weekdays from 1 to 5 p.m. and at the weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Because in our low mountain ranges there is never an absolute guarantee that there will be snow, the municipality of Kaltenborn offers a snow telephone service. By calling +49(0)2691/7741 or going online at kaltenborn-eifel.de you can obtain up-to-date information about the weather situation, snow conditions and about whether the ski lifts are in operation.There are many cross-country options on groomed cross-country trails in the cross-country region of Lützelacht. The skiing trail comprises several interconnected tracks of 3, 5 and 7 km length.A cross-country school with DSV-certified instructors gives lessons at the weekends (by arrangement only, tel.: +49(0)2691/2519).There are fun and child-friendly toboggan runs below mountain hotel Hohe Acht.Ski and winter hikes through the snow-covered woods of the Eifel region can be enjoyed by those looking to spend a more quiet and relaxed weekend. A special highlight is the walk to the Emperor William tower on the Hohen Acht with its magnificent views.Parking is available in Jammelshofen for skiers, tobogannists and cross-country skiers.
Winter sports area -Arft -First ski & snowboord "fun park" of the Eifel toboggan run of 450 meters.
In winter, the Weißer Stein leisure area (690 metres above sea level) offers lots of fun in the snow in NRW: Let's go cross-country skiing and tobogganing in the Eifel!
When winter comes with enough natural snow on the "Black Man" at an altitude of 698 m, the snow-covered forest shows its most beautiful side for winter sports enthusiasts and winter hikers alike.
Wellness in the Eifel means switching off, taking a deep breath and doing something good for yourself. Find the right accommodation for your personal time-out.
Host of the regional brand EIFEL near the Nürburgring, located directly on the dream path "Booser Doppelmaartour" and the dream path "Eifelturmpfad Boos". Wellness area, natural swimming pool, free internet access, beer garden, regional cuisine. Location: Between the small Eifel towns of Mayen, Adenau and Daun and not far from the Nürburgring 21 double rooms in different categories, 2 single rooms and a holiday apartment for 2-4 people with a wonderful view of the countryside.
Hof Grindelborn: Your idyllic retreat in the picturesque Volcanic Eifel Hof Grindelborn is an idyllic retreat in the picturesque Volcanic Eifel, surrounded by springs and embedded in the UNESCO Nature and Geopark. The secluded location of the estate offers an incomparable view of the Eifel mountains and the surrounding landscape, which invites you to dream. Since 2004, the farm has been carefully renovated and lovingly designed with dedication and respect for the listed buildings. With a total of 9 fully furnished apartments, designed for stays of 4 nights or more, Hof Grindelborn offers its guests a special ambience. Each apartment has a high-quality branded fitted kitchen and modern furniture. The "Herrenhaus", "Kleine Auszeit" and "Schöne Aussicht" apartments even have their own small spa area for additional relaxation. The courtyard invites you to linger and relax with a small park behind the property. Since 2024, we have been offering relaxation treatments and cosmetics for our guests in our own DaySpa. From December 2024, great regional wines will be presented for tasting in the new small vinotheque. Our own vinotheque offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a careful selection of regional wines in a cozy atmosphere and to find out about the special features of the wines from the region. The inner courtyard was completely rebuilt in 2024 and offers an Italian flair and a special coziness.
The hotel and restaurant are very popular with hikers and are ideal as a stopover at the end of the first stage of the Eifelsteig. The wellness oasis "Roetgen Therme" with 7 saunas (including the Eifel sweat lodge, the Himalaya Kirstall salt sauna, the aroma bath and the flower bath, among others) and 5 pools is directly accessible from the hotel. The highlight is the large open-air seawater pool (heated all year round) in the 5000 m² thermal park. A small but fine hotel - directly above one of Germany's leading wellness facilities. Guests can enter the Roetgen thermal baths directly from their hotel room. The hotel is located in the 200-year-old post office of Roetgen and fits traditionally into the Eifel with its massive walls.
You will find the hotel "Molitors Mühle" **** in an idyllic, absolutely secluded location in the Salm valley in the southern Volcanic Eifel, surrounded by a lot of nature and a lot of untouched forest. Family-owned for 140 years. Enjoy your holiday in the romantic mill on five dreamy lakes, in the middle of a hiker's paradise.- Near Himmerod Monastery -Insider tip for individualists and THE hotel for romantics.New indoor pool, 1,700 m² wellness oasis and pile sauna in the bathing lake - enjoy relaxation and tranquillity
Wellness, cuisine and pure nature – a unique combination at the heart of the volcanic Eifel's health region. Hike, relax and enjoy the feeling of wellbeing around the Schalkenmehren Lake. You're sure to be enchanted by the inimitable Michels atmosphere. We are at your service around the clock. Family-run and personal. You're heartily welcome.
The 4-star superior Hotel Kastenholz is located in the Eifel village of Wershofen. You stay in cosy rooms of the categories Sunrise, Wildpark, Superior or Delux, all with balcony. The Nature & Wellness Hotel includes a wildlife park and a health centre with a wellness area.All rooms at the Natur- und Wohlfühlhotel Kastenholz are equipped with satellite TV, a safe and a minibar. Wi-Fi is free of charge in all areas.In the health centre of the Natur- und Wohlfühlhotel Kastenholz you can enjoy fasting & detox cures as well as beauty treatments and massages. A free indoor pool and sauna invite you to relax. Activities on offer include Tai-Chi, Qi-Gong, Pilates and water gymnastics. The accommodation's inclusive sports and relaxation programme offers daily changing activities with physiotherapists. Also visit the accommodation's red deer park with 130 species of deer.In the morning, a breakfast buffet is served with specialities from the Eifel region, high-quality organic ingredients and delicious dishes. Lunch, dinner and fresh game dishes are also available. In summer you can also dine on the terrace.It is just under 15 km to the Nürburgring. Free parking is available at the Natur- und Wohlfühlhotel Kastenholz.
Experience moments of enjoyment at Burgbrohl Castle Explore the dream paths of the Vulkaneifel region around Lake Laach or experience the legendary Rhine romance in the castle-rich UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Burgbrohl Castle, as a four-star castle hotel, is the ideal starting point for your day trips. Amidst the historic castle walls, you will find stylish rooms, first-class seasonal cuisine, and an excellent spa. After delightful excursions, enjoy refreshing drinks on the castle terrace with panoramic views and delicious delicacies in the rustic cozy castle tavern or in the exquisite gourmet restaurant by Brule. End the day with a stroll through the castle park or a visit to our Castellum SPA. Taking a little break here to relax is easy in the retreats of the wellness area, which features an outdoor sauna, rooftop terrace, and infrared cabin. Baroque architecture meets modern comfort here: Create your own castle moments at Burgbrohl Castle and enjoy your personal castle time.
Located directly on the Eifelsteig The hotel is nestled in the fascinating landscape of the Vulkaneifel, directly on the reservoir and Eifelsteig trail on the green outskirts of Gerolstein. Be a guest and feel at home in a vacation hotel where hospitality, warmth and well-being go hand in hand. All rooms are equipped with shower/WC or bath/WC, radio, LCD TV, high-speed WLAN and most have a balcony. Our kitchen team favors a light, seasonal cuisine, which has its home in the Eifel. Regional specialties - of course always made from freshingredients, accompanied by a delicious wine from the wine cellar. There is a mini golf course, tennis court and fishing on the reservoir next to the hotel. Newly designed restaurant with 120 seats, fireplace room and cozy lounge for an evening get-together with a freshly tapped Bitburger Pils. Wellness area:For relaxation, the hotel offers an extended 600 m² wellness area with heated indoor pool (6x 12m, 28 degrees), Finnish panorama sauna,bio sauna, various relaxation lounges, sun bed, steam bath, sun terrace and sunbathing lawn. We also offer massages. Please note our arrangements on the website. Fri.-Sun. only pamper weekend bookable. Extra price over the turn of the year. Incl. bathrobe and 1 bottle of Gerolsteiner on arrival. http://www.youtube.com/embed/r6C_XyleBYM?rel=0
The Sporthotel Grafenwald is the ideal combination of delightful situation, individual spare time, luxury and elegance. Surrounded by forest if you experience calm, relaxed atmosphere. The pleasant climate of the volcanic Eifel will contribute additionally to your recovery. Also sport and spais capitalize: Enjoy the pleasure of bath in our "Wellnessworld" with integrated children´s pool, sauna with steam bath and solarium, Kindergarten "Kidsclub", children's playground, boocie, tenniscourt, fitness center, Beauty World and much more besides waits for you.
Sometimes we need to flee from our daily life routine by taking a short break where we gain intensive rest.Spontaneously escaping a few days, going hiking or enjoy nature, going on a cycle trip and explore the area or going on a trip and enjoy life. Sometimes we need to treat ourselves. Try it and spend a few recreative days in our beautiful Eifel region.Indulge yourself days of rest and relaxation and time to reload the battery. We are pleased to help you planning your leisure time and we will show you the nicest places of our region.We have more than 20 double rooms (18 to 24 m²) available, twelve of them with a sleeping couch which can be used as a third bed. Three rooms are equipped with separate beds. Furthermore, we have three small single rooms (12 to 16 m²).All rooms are equipped with shower lavatory, hairdryer, cosmetic mirror, flat screen TV, radio, telephone, W-LAN (Wi-Fi), refrigerator, balcony or terrace. We also have a lift in our house.It is a pleasure to welcome you.