A walk through history – The Siegfried Line Eifel Trail

The Siegfried Line has an evocative and thought-provoking history. This military defence system secured the western border of the former German Reich. The Eifel Trail of the same name is an extraordinary hiking experience combining history with physical exercise. Time and time again, the trail encounters former bunkers, old graves and moss-covered tank traps. After all, parts of the trail run right along the remains of what once was the Siegfried Line. In contrast, the surrounding countryside offers stunning views of the North Eifel hills. The wild narcissus meadows that turn the landscape into a sea of bright yellow blooms in spring each year are also easy to reach from the Eifel Trail.

Side track: The Eifel Trail is a circular loop around 13 kilometres long. Although the hike is classed as moderately difficult, the inclines are mostly comfortable, so inexperienced hikers can also complete the trail. Nevertheless, a basic level of fitness is required.

Trail overview
The circular route starts and ends at the car park at Hollerather Knie, not far from Hollerath. The trail begins by following a woodland path on the forest’s edge, then leads uphill and downhill towards Hollerath for a few kilometres. The trail doesn’t cross the village yet. Instead, it leaves it again via a forest path. The route carries on through wooded areas until it reaches the centre of Hollerath. It then continues over fields and meadows before going back to where it began.

Top tip: Take plenty of time and factor in breaks. Stops in Hollerath or Losheimer Graben are a great opportunity to build up your strength for the route ahead.