Family-friendly circular hike near Heimbach in the Eifel (5 km), always along the water's edge

Hike around the Heimbach reservoir: Nature fun for the whole family

The 5 km circular hike around the Heimbach reservoir is ideal for the whole family. You walk along the so-called jungle trail, although its name has nothing to do with its level of difficulty. The path is also very suitable for children, so you can concentrate on the beautiful nature and the reservoir without getting out of breath.

You always walk along the edge of the water. Here you can marvel at dense deciduous forests and have a wonderful view of the towering Kermeter (a part of the Rureifel at an altitude of over 520 m) and the Meuchelberg.

First you pass the dam, where a movable fish-belly flap ensures a steady flow of water into the lower Rur. On the northern bank, there is a small leisure facility with a boat and canoe rental, which will not only make children's hearts beat faster. You then stroll along a boardwalk and a narrow, rocky path until you see the hydroelectric power station, which still generates electricity today. Cross a bridge to reach a historic Art Nouveau building and follow the cycle and hiking trail back to Heimbach, the smallest town in NRW.

At a glance

• Circular hiking trail (family-friendly)
• Start/finish: "Über Rur" parking lot, 52396 Heimbach (203 m elevation gain)
• Distance: 5 km, Duration: 2:00 h, Difficulty level: easy
• Ascent/descent: 90 m
• Signposting: black 49 on a white background
• Highest point: 236 m
• Lowest point: 203 m

Equipment

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

Tip: From mid-June to the end of August, there are little elf houses hidden along the jungle trail that you can discover - turning the jungle trail into an elf trail.