The Eifelsteig is a 313km long-distance trail in Western Germany, close to the Belgium border. The start of the trail is in Kornelimünster. This trail is one of the Top Trails of Germany, meaning it has a quality mark of excellent quality. Most sections are around 20km and at the end of most sections, there are sleeping options in the small German villages.
We hiked four stages of the Eifelsteig at the beginning of May; a perfect time to hike since the forests and meadows are in blossom and the temperature is very pleasant. With the exception of the winter months, the trail can be hiked all year round.
Stages – from Kornelimünster to Trier
- Stage 1: Kornelimünster – Roetgen | 14 kilometer | easy
- Stage 2: Roetgen – Monschau | 17 kilometer | moderate
- Stage 3: Monschau – Einruhr | 24 kilometer | heavy
- Stage 4: Einruhr – Gemünd | 21 kilometer | moderate
- Stage 5: Gemünd – Kloster Steinfeld | 17.5 kilometer | moderate
- Stage 6: Kloster Steinfeld – Blankenheim | 23 kilometer| moderate
- Stage 7: Blankenheim – Mirbach | 18 kilometer | moderate
- Stage 8: Mirbach – Hillesheim | 26 kilometer | heavy
- Stage 9: Hillesheim – Gerolstein | 21 kilometer | heavy
- Stage 10: Gerolstein – Daun | 24 kilometer | heavy
- Stage 11: Daun – Manderscheid | 23 kilometer | heavy
- Stage 12: Mandersheid – Kloster Himmerod | 18 kilometer | moderate
- Stage 13: Kloster Himmerod – Bruch | 20 kilometer | light
- Stage 14: Bruch – Kordel | 28 kilometer | heavy
- Stage 15: Kordel – Trier | 17 kilometer | moderate
Despite the fact that there are no real mountains on this trail, some sections of the trail can be hard. If needed, it is possible to shorten days to take extra rest days.
The Eifelsteig
What to bring?
Other than our standard packing list for thru-hikes, there are several items that can be quite handy on the Eifelsteig. Because the trail covers some relatively flat ground, meaning you are making a lot of repetitive movements, I found it very nice to hike with hiking poles. These relieve your joints and make life just a little easier on the longer sections of the Eifelsteig. Do you always hike in high shoes and what to try out some low hiking shoes (like trail runners)? Then this might be the perfect trail to do so! And lastly, don’t forget your raincoat for unexpected showers.
Where to sleep?
There are many accommodation options along the trail because you literally hike through various little villages. Many accommodations can be found on the website of the Eifelsteig. Unfortunately, wild camping is not allowed and there is only a handful of camping spots along the way. Therefore, the Eifelsteig is not ideal for bringing your tent. Luckily, the old German guesthouses are a very nice place to stay for the night.
Good to know
This trail is best hiked in spring or autumn. During the summer, temperatures can be high and the trail can be more crowded. Another advantage is that nature in spring is all blossoming and during the autumn you can enjoy the amazing autumn colours on the trees. The trail is very well marked, however, it never hurts to download the route on your phone or as a GPS. Still, want to hike the trail in summer? Do not forget to book your accomodations in advance!
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Happy trails!
