Culture, history and water – Kyll Cycle Route through the Eifel

If you appreciate water in all its forms, you'll get your money's worth here: springs, a mighty reservoir and even a waterfall can be found along the Kyll Cycle Route. The route leads through the Kyll Valley and celebrates water much of the way.

In Gerolstein, the famous Gerolsteiner mineral water flows directly from a rock into your drinking bottle. However, it’s not only the fascinating waters and beautiful nature that make the Kyll Valley so attractive, there are also historical sights such as castles, monasteries and other traces of bygone days to discover here. Did you know, for example, that Charlemagne is said to have been born in the Kyll Valley? Or, that eagles and wolves live here even today? There is so much to explore on the Kyll Cycle Route.

The Kyll River meanders and loops from the Belgian border to Trier, the oldest city in Germany. It flows north to south through the beautiful Eifel mountains, flowing past some impressive castles and monasteries and through small villages before meeting the mighty Moselle River in Trier. On the way, you make unforgettable experiences in the unspoiled nature of this secluded, deep valley.

The route is almost entirely tarmaced, whilst the remaining short stretches follow paved paths. You also ride through two railway tunnels. I have divided the route into 3 stages, so the distances are also easily doable in a more leisurely tourist mode and for families. If you like more of a sporty challenge, you can complete the route in 2 days or even in one go instead. There are only a few climbs en route – the steep Kyllberg on stage 2 is the only real obstacle.

The Kyll Valley is an insider tip and anything but touristy, but civilisation is still never far away. Along the way, you pass through towns with hotels and guesthouses, and you can also find cafés and restaurants en route.

You can get to the starting point in Losheim municipality via the nearby Vennbahn Cycle Route or by public transport. The nearest train station is in Dahlem in the district of Euskirchen.

From Gerolstein, you trace the Cologne – Trier railway line to Trier on which the so-called Eifel Express runs hourly. If you run out of time or energy, a rescue station is never very far away. In Trier, you can continue on the Moselle cycle path in the direction of Koblenz or to France. Of course, trains also depart from Trier, for example to Cologne. The choice is yours.

All in all, this is a special Tour through the diverse landscapes of the Eifel that is well worth experiencing.