It Used to Be Said That the Eifel Was Only for Older Folks in Shorts, Sandals, and Knee Socks. Fortunately, This Stereotype Is Outdated Nowadays. Young People, Walkers, and Wellness Fans Have Long Since Discovered the Unique Nature and Diverse Culture of this Low Mountain Range.
Volcanic craters blooming with water lilies, dozens of castles and palaces, the enchanted moorland of the High Fens, a national park with real rangers, medieval half-timbered towns, culinary delights including a small but fine wine region. Add to that legends, mysterious “Eifel tigers,” and, last but not least, quite friendly locals. Are you intrigued? Then join us on a beginner’s tour of the Eifel…
Sturdy Castles, Nobility in Distress, and a Nasty Villain
More than 130 castles perch on the hilltops of the Eifel, including one of Germany’s most beautiful, Burg Eltz, whose origins date back to the 12th century. As the old walls are highly popular with tourists, one can vividly imagine how cramped it must have been when more than a hundred residents crowded here. A fabulous legend revolves around the Genoveva Castle in Mayen. Allegedly, the castle’s namesake had to flee from the evil governor Golo to the forest, where she spent six years in exile and became a mother. A deer helped her by providing milk. The villain was quartered by Genoveva’s avenging husband, Count Siegfried. Golo probably simmers in the depths of hell today. You can explore the dark old tunnels under the castle in the slate mine, but not quite as deep.
