Nationalpark Eifel
Tucked away in western Germany, the Eifel National Park is a hidden gem for road cyclists looking for a quieter, more dramatic alternative to the popular roads of South-Limburg. While Limburg has charm and punchy hills, the Eifel brings longer, steadier climbs, sweeping views, and roads that feel like your own private playground. It’s just across the border, but the change in scenery is immediate: rugged forested hills, deep valleys, and wide-open skies.
The climbs here are a real treat. Take on the Hammer Mauer, a short but brutal wall that will test your legs and your pacing. Or head toward Vossenack, where the road snakes up through woodland with a steady rhythm and a peaceful backdrop. These climbs don’t just challenge your legs, they reward you with quiet, scenic descents and the sense that you’ve ridden somewhere special.
One of the park’s standout features is it's water. The shimmering lakes and giant dams of the Rursee area offer stunning views, especially when the morning mist starts to lift. Cycling along the shorelines or climbing above them gives you moments to pause and take it all in.
The Eifel doesn’t have the café culture of Limburg, but what it lacks in bustle it makes up for in solitude and space. It’s the kind of place where you can ride for hours with barely a car in sight, surrounded by forest, history, and hills that keep your legs working and your focus sharp. If you're looking for longer efforts, fewer crowds, and long views the consider planning a road cycling trip to the Eifel National Park.
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Best time to ride
The optimal months for cycling in Eifel National Park are from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally mild, and the natural beauty of the park is at its peak. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Winter months can be cold and snowy, making cycling less favorable.
Where to stay
Base Towns
Gemünd
On the eastern shore of the lakes sits Gemünd. It's a small, welcoming town with places to stay and plenty of options to eat.
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Accommodations (6)
Places in Nationalpark Eifel that welcome you and your bike.
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How to get there
- By Car: most visitors will travel to the Eifel National Park by car. The park is easy accessible via the A1 and A4 motorways.
- By Train: Regional trains connect to towns like Heimbach and Kall. Alternative options are to come from Aachen (DE) or Eupen (BE)
- By Plane: The nearest major airports are Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) and Düsseldorf Airport (DUS).
Bike Rentals (0)
Most riders bring their own bikes to the Nationalpark Eifel. For a good rental road bike you can go to Zuid-Limburg just across the border.
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Shops (2)
Cafes & bars (7)
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Popular Climbs (8)
Road Cycling Routes (12)
Long ride to Vossenack - Monschau
138.61 km | 2500 m | Epic
This challenging loop from Schleiden (or Gemund) covers 138.6 km and climbs a total of 2,500 meters through the Eifel's rugged beauty. The route is packed with short, steep climbs and constant elevation changes that keep the ride engaging. Highlights include the ascent to Vossenack and a scenic stop in the historic town of Monschau. After Monschau, a short stretch on the Vennbahn adds a smooth, relaxed section. This ride is a true test of endurance with rewarding views and a classic up-down Eifel rhythm.
Vennbahn loop
54.1 km | 466 m | Easy
Discover the Vennbahn south of Monschau. Head south to go around the military camp Elsenborn to pick up the Vennbahn track from Weywertz. Most of the elevation gain is at the start of the climb when you leave Monschau.
Loop Around Rursee
69.2 km | 1290 m | Moderate
Starting and ending in Rurberg, this 69 km loop packs in some of the Eifel’s most rewarding climbs and descents. The ride opens with the steady 4.8% ascent to Steckenborn, winding through quiet forest roads. After the Rur dam you'll start the Kermeter climb The Hammer Mauer climb will tests your legs with a 7.2% gradient. You'll be rewarded with the final descent back to Rurberg.
Loop du France
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Loop du France
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Loop du France
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Map of Nationalpark Eifel - 27 pins
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Reviews
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Mathijs
When I’m driving south, I definitely prefer the Eifel over South Limburg. The climbs are longer, the roads are quieter, and the views around the lake are just awesome. And if you stop for a coffee, you’re pretty much guaranteed a big slice of pie to fill you right back up.
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