Circular route / 8 km

A forest full of sagas and legends from a long-forgotten time

The Badewald forest is a natural treasure of the Rureifel. It is a wooded area located above the Nideggen district of Abenden. Simply take the Rurtalbahn to the Abenden stop, from where you can enter the Badewald. Then follow the hiking sign [77] and let yourself be inspired by the forest, which is steeped in history. Incidentally, the name "Badewald" has nothing to do with a bath or bathing resort, but probably comes from the Celtic settlement "Badua", which was later used by the Romans as a winter camp. Here you follow ancient geological and archaeological traces left behind by the Celts, Germanic tribes and Romans. Like traveling back in time, you enter a long-forgotten world full of myths and legends. Ancient pines, birches, cherry trees and beeches line your path. Here you can take a deep breath and forget everyday life. Most of the circular trail takes you through the "Buntsandsteinfelsen im Rurtal von Untermaubach bis Abenden" nature reserve. You stroll past pastures and orchards, past curious rock formations made of intense red sandstone and have magnificent views of the deep Rur valley with its natural splendor. On the way back, you can look forward to a refreshing visit to the outdoor pool. Finally, you arrive back in the quaint half-timbered village of Abenden, where you can try out the fabulous gastronomy.

At a glance

• Circular hiking trail - hiking sign [77]
• Start/finish: Abenden train station, corner of Rurweg/Conzenstraße, 52385 Nideggen-Abenden
• Distance: 8 km, Duration: 2:30 h, Difficulty level: easy
• Family-friendly

Equipment

• Waterproof hiking boots and clothing suitable for the weather
• Sufficient water and a little food

The red sandstone cliffs pose a natural risk of falling rocks. Please keep your distance from the edges of the cliffs and do not stay below them. Observe warning signs and instructions to avoid accidents and protect nature.