Volcanic landscapes between Germany and Belgium – Eifel-Ardennes Cycle Route

Two countries, 112 kilometres (70 miles) – the Eifel-Ardennes Cycle Route leads from the Nürburgring racetrack in western Germany to the Belgian town of Sankt Vith. Along the way, you discover the volcanic Eifel low mountain range, former railway lines and relaxing spas. Fiery volcanoes would once have shaped the landscape, where you can now cycle leisurely over the mountains they created. You can take a deep breath and enjoy the fresh air at health spas in Prüm and Kelberg. Whilst in the town of Gerolstein, famous mineral water and the rough rocks of the Dolomites beckon. As you ride, you pass through the habitats of beavers, bats, and even wolves. You’re guaranteed a wild adventure.

In this Collection, I’ve divided the Eifel-Ardennes Cycle Path into three stages for you. With 50 kilometres (31 miles) and 600 metres (1,970 feet) of altitude difference, the first stage is the most athletic. However, the crisps climbs are rewarded with considerably longer, fast descents through the Eifel mountains. With 27 and 36 kilometres (16.7 and 22 miles) respectively, the second and third stages have much less climbing and are ideal for relaxed cyclists and families. The second stage takes you along farm tracks through gently undulating landscapes to the town of Prüm, so-called ‘Luftkurort’ (literally meaning air spa), known for its air quality. On the third stage, you ride along disused railway tracks through the Prüm and Alfbach valleys and cross the border to Sankt Vith municipality in Belgium, where you can finish your Tour with some Belgian treats.

As it is not too lengthy, the Eifel-Ardennes Cycle Route is ideal for a long weekend. You can also cycle it in two days if you combine the second and third stages. Most of the route is paved with around 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) on dirt roads. A touring bike, gravel bike or even a road bike is ideal for this adventure. In the towns of Kelberg, Prüm and Daun you can stock up on provisions for your Tour. At the stage destinations Gerolstein, Prüm and Sankt Vith, you also find a wide range of accommodation.

You can reach the Nürburgring by public transport with the 859 bus, which takes you from the market in Adenau to your starting point in just 15 minutes. From Bonn, Koblenz and Cologne, the journey to Adenau takes between one and a half to two and a half hours. If you want to get an early start or if you don't live close by, you could travel to Adenau the day before. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the wonderful route through the volcanic Eifel. If you just want to cycle part of the route, you can begin in the towns of Gerolstein or Prüm. Gerolstein is especially easy to reach with the regional train from Cologne or Trier.

In Sankt Vith, you have several options to continue your journey or to head home. The Vennbahn Cycle Path takes you to Aachen in less than 100 kilometres (62 miles) or to Troisvierges in Luxembourg in about 30 kilometres (18.6 miles). You can take the TEC bus 304 from Sankt Vith to Eupen and take the number 14 to Aachen (which takes 30 minutes), or you can simply cycle the 16 kilometres (10 miles). Aachen is very well connected by regional train and you can easily continue your journey to Cologne, Bonn or Koblenz.