Forest, water, and wilderness in the Eifel National Park - Deep blue lakes and rivers, cheerful babbling brooks, wide reservoirs, forested mountain ranges, wild daffodils and orchids - In the midst of the cross-border nature park High Fens Eifel, the Eifel National Park stretches over an area of about 110 square kilometers. Sometimes it appears rough and wild, at other times delicate and intricate. There are many facets in which this large protected area presents itself.
Forest, Water, and Wilderness in the Eifel National Park
Deep blue lakes and rivers, cheerful babbling brooks, vast reservoirs, forested mountain ranges, wild daffodils, and orchids - In the heart of the cross-border Hohes Venn Eifel Nature Park lies the Eifel National Park, covering an area of approximately 110 square kilometers. Sometimes it appears rugged and wild, at other times delicate and intricate. The large conservation area presents many facets.
In North Rhine-Westphalia, it is the first and so far only national park. Nature is allowed to develop here – largely without human intervention. Over millions of years, the elements have created a landscape that enchants, allowing nature to return to its own cycle of becoming and passing away. Primeval forests can re-emerge, as certain core zones must not be accessed. Other areas are freely accessible, with a vast network of cycling and hiking trails weaving through the protected area, where visitors can enjoy the pristine nature.
This originality and seclusion provide an excellent habitat for many plants and animals: 10,960 species have been recorded for the Eifel National Park, more than 2,300 of which are endangered species. The wildcat stealthily prowls through the forests, the Wart-biter – a species of grasshopper – probably has its largest population in the national park, the Moorland butterfly requires very specific plants to lay its eggs, and orchid enthusiasts can find many different species of wild orchids.
All senses are engaged: The scent of the old beech forests pleases the nose, fingers feel the freshness of the water, and eyes relax while looking over the Rur-, Ober-, and Urft reservoirs. At night, when it hardly gets dark in the cities, the stars sparkle in the Eifel sky. The light pollution is so minimal that the International Star Park was established in the Eifel National Park. It was designated as the first “International Dark Sky Park” in Germany. On clear nights, not only is the Milky Way visible to the naked eye, but also the constellations that have fascinated humans since time immemorial.
Each season has its peculiarities, its own charm. In spring, millions of heads of the small wild daffodils reach towards the sky, creating a yellow sea of flowers. In May, the broom flowers dye the Dreibrorner high plateau in rich yellow. In summer, the ancient forests beckon, as the leaves form a cooling canopy and the water of the brooks and lakes cools the feet. In autumn, when the leaves of the trees turn into a spectacular play of colors, the deer rut is a special experience. And in winter, when snow covers the landscapes and the cold temperatures create icicles and hoarfrost, a cozy calm spreads, inviting a leisurely walk through the resting nature.
National Park Rangers guide guests through the Eifel National Park and share exciting stories about the many plants and animals that feel at home here. They report on their tours about black storks and eagle owls, the beaver that builds dams, and lead to breathtaking viewpoints like Hirschley – located 180 meters above Lake Rur. Those who still want to know more can visit one of the National Park Gates or the experience exhibition Wilderness Dreams in the National Park Center Eifel at the “International Square” Vogelsang IP.
Tip:
By train and bus to the Eifel National Park >>
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