4.5
(3098)
14,041
riders
591
rides
Touring cycling around Hörscheid offers diverse landscapes within the Volcanic Eifel, characterized by unique geological formations, maars, and panoramic viewpoints. The region features picturesque river valleys, including the Ahr, Nims, and Prüm, which provide family-friendly cycle paths with gentle inclines. A significant network of former railway lines has been converted into largely flat cycling paths, offering scenic views without strenuous ascents. While some areas present challenging climbs through hilly and wooded terrain, other parts offer flatter routes suitable for various…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
4.3
(8)
49
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
25
riders
33.7km
02:47
540m
540m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
9
riders
25.7km
01:40
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
18
riders
7.22km
00:32
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
18
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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There are very beautiful and paved paths in the Eifel, away from the tourist routes.
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A true paradise stretches out on the edge of the village of Ulmen on a plateau beneath the Steimelskopf, where a volcano once erupted with a tremendous bang, forming a deep crater with a maar lake, which now serves as a renowned bird sanctuary. The exact age of the Jungferweiher lake cannot be determined, but its morphological shape suggests it is several hundred thousand years old. In early modern times, the Lords of Ulmen used the lake as a fishpond for carp breeding, until it gradually silted up over time, and the residents of Ulmen harvested peat from the former maar for heating purposes. However, in 1942, the decision was made to flood the area again by damming the Ulmener Bach to secure the drinking water supply for the Cochem-Zell district. Today, the Jungferweiher lake, located at an altitude of 428 meters above sea level, covers an area of approximately 170,000 square meters with a depth of 0.8 meters. The pond, along with the Ulmener Maar, is protected for its rare flora and fauna. Many endangered species, such as the snipe and the meadow pipit, breed in the reed-rich banks, while ospreys have been observed hunting. Migratory birds such as cranes, teals, and great grey shrikes roost in the meadows near the Ulmener Jungferweiher every year. Therefore, a walk along the approximately 3-kilometer loop is a must, especially during the migration periods in spring and autumn. At the bird observatory on the western bank, you can observe the birds in their natural habitat. Nowadays, a wide variety of fish species thrive in the shallow waters of the Ulmener Weiher, which can be fished from a fishing pier on the southern bank. Swimming and other water sports are prohibited, however. Fishing permits are issued by the local municipal administration in Ulmen. Since 2023, the Ulmener Maar Tunnel has connected the Jungferweiher underground to the Ulmener Maar. A visit to the 126-metre-long tunnel is highly recommended!
7
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1 million years of geology. Worth putting your bike aside for a moment.
6
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The landscape reflects the geological development of millions of years.
6
0
Beautiful cozy square in the middle of the village.
5
0
The Sarmersbach XXL or panoramic bench was built in November 2020 and is the largest bench in Rhineland-Palatinate. At 3.25 meters high and 6.27 meters long, it is unique. Over 6 cubic meters of Douglas fir wood were used. You can easily reach the bench via a wooden walkway – no climbing required! However, enter at your own risk. Anyone who takes a break here will be rewarded with a magnificent view.
6
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The Afelskreuz (indulgence cross, mistakenly interpreted as the "Eifel Cross") stands on an old Roman military road. For centuries, pilgrims from the Bonn-Cologne region have traveled this route to the grave of the Apostle Saint Matthias in Trier. This path is therefore also popularly known as the Pilgrim's Route. Another name is the "Piglet Route," because farmers and traders drove their cattle along the Afelskreuz to the markets in Kelberg and Mehren until the 1830s. It is noteworthy that the cities of Trier and Cologne are equidistant from the Afelskreuz (Afelskreuz), some 90 kilometers away. The Romans already established a well-developed network of paths, which can still be seen today. Hörschhausen was a junction of several Roman-era paths and roads. There was also a path from Hörschhausen to Bongard, which crossed the main road between Uess and Lieser at the Afelskreuz.
6
0
There are over 600 touring cycling routes in the Hörscheid area, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes 79 easy routes, over 300 moderate routes, and more than 200 difficult routes.
Yes, the region offers many family-friendly cycle paths, especially those along picturesque river valleys like the Ahr, Nims, and Prüm, which feature generally gentle inclines. Routes converted from former railway lines are also largely flat and ideal for an easier ride. There are 79 easy routes available.
You'll experience a diverse landscape, from picturesque river valleys to hilly and wooded areas of the Vulkaneifel. The Vulkaneifel is known for its geological diversity, featuring forests, meadows, lakes, streams, moors, and distinctive stream valleys. Many routes also offer scenic views from viaducts and along old railway lines.
Yes, a significant feature of touring cycling around Hörscheid is the network of former railway lines converted into cycling paths. These routes are popular for their largely flat terrain and scenic views, such as the loop that incorporates the Grünewald Viaduct – Pleiner Tunnel loop from Darscheid, which utilizes such infrastructure.
Absolutely. While there are many gentle routes, the broader Vulkaneifel region includes hilly and wooded landscapes that present challenging climbs. There are over 200 difficult routes available, such as the Kyll River – View of Kasselburg Castle loop from Darscheid, which features significant elevation changes.
The region is rich in points of interest. You can cycle past the Freudenkoppe Castle Ruins, the Upper Castle of Ulmen, or the Dreis Castle. Natural landmarks include the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg for panoramic views, or the Millstone Cave at Nerother Kopf. The Maarkreuz offers a view of the Schalkenmehren Maar.
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Hörscheid are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the popular View from Daun Viaduct – Through the 'Große Schlitzohr' loop from Darscheid and the Ueßbach at Schönbacher Mühle – Firmerich Shelter View of Daun loop from Darscheid.
The touring cycling routes around Hörscheid are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 3,100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from gentle river valleys to scenic former railway lines, and the geological diversity of the Vulkaneifel.
Yes, e-bike rental options are increasingly present in the broader region, making the more hilly sections accessible to a wider range of cyclists. It's advisable to check local tourism offices or sports shops in nearby towns for specific touring bike rental availability.
For those planning multi-day tours, 'Bed & Bike' accommodations are available in areas like the Westerwald-Sieg region, which borders the Vulkaneifel. These establishments cater specifically to cyclists, often providing secure bike storage and other amenities.
The region provides infrastructure to support cyclists, including bike buses such as the Sûre Valley cycle bus, which can transport bikes between Trier and Bollendorf, and the Bergischer FahrradBus, operating in summer to help riders navigate or shorten routes. These services can be useful for reaching starting points or returning after a long ride.
Parking is generally available in towns and villages that serve as starting points for routes. For example, Darscheid is a common starting point for several popular loops. Many converted railway line paths also have designated parking areas at their access points. It's recommended to check specific route details for parking information.
Yes, the region has various amenities. Along many routes, especially those passing through villages or towns, you'll find cafes, restaurants, and pubs where you can stop for refreshments and meals. The Vulkaneifel region is well-equipped to cater to visitors.
The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Hörscheid, with pleasant temperatures and lush landscapes. The varied terrain means you can find enjoyable rides throughout these seasons, though some higher, more exposed areas might be windier.
While many outdoor areas in the Vulkaneifel are dog-friendly, specific rules can vary depending on the trail and whether it passes through protected areas. Generally, dogs are allowed on trails if kept on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or specific trail regulations for the most accurate information.


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