Water shapes the landscape
In the north of the Eifel, the elements of water and air fight for supremacy. Large parts of the northern Eifel lie in the High Fens - Eifel Nature Park. The High Fens is one of the largest preserved raised bogs in Europe and feeds many rivers and streams in the Eifel. The borders are as fluid as the rivers, because here you are traveling across borders. Cycle along the Vennbahn cycle path or the Rur-Ufer cycle path.
Rivers have dug deep into the earth. The Rur in particular has persistently carved out its bed and created a deep valley with towering rock faces.
The Rursee, Obersee and Urftsee reservoirs characterize the landscape with their large, wide expanses of water and countless small bays. From swimming in the natural adventure pool to canoeing, stand-up paddling or boating, there is a wide range of water adventures on offer.
The Eifel National Park embraces the huge expanse of water of the reservoirs. Nature is the master builder here. She is allowed to do as she pleases, wilderness is the order of the day. The results so far are impressive. Rare animal species such as the black stork, eagle owl and wildcat have found a refuge in the Eifel National Park.
After the Celts, the Romans appreciated the water of the Eifel and channeled the clear water to their metropolis of Cologne via a sophisticated canal system. Later, the feudal lords of the Middle Ages protected the water from intruders. Many of them are still preserved and can be discovered by bike on the moated castle route.
Which destinations you shouldn't miss in the land of water: