Monschau is located in the Eifel and the Eifel is a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts! It is a hilly nature reserve with extensive forests and beautiful flora and fauna.
The most beautiful hiking trails around Monschau
Monschau is known for its half-timbered houses and historic cobbled streets, but there is much more to discover beyond the old town. Forested hills, picturesque river valleys, scenic viewpoints and beautiful natural landscapes are all within easy reach.
The area around Monschau offers excellent hiking opportunities. From short, well-marked circular walks to longer day hikes along the Eifelsteig, there are routes for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
We have selected five beautiful hiking trails to help you plan your visit. For each route, you will find distances, starting points, practical information and links to official hiking maps and GPX tracks.
Would you like to combine hiking with sightseeing? Discover the highlights of Monschau through our guide to Monschau and its surroundings .
5 signposted hiking trails in Monschau and the surrounding area
From a relaxing walk past the famous beech hedges of Höfen to a longer adventure along the Eifelsteig, these five routes reveal different sides of Monschau and the Northern Eifel.
Daffodil Trail near Monschau-Höfen
The Daffodil Trail, known locally as the Narzissenroute, is one of the most popular walks near Monschau. Starting in Höfen, the route leads through the Perlenbach and Fuhrtsbach valleys, where thousands of wild daffodils bloom every spring.
April is an especially beautiful time to visit, when the yellow flowers create a colourful contrast against the woodland and streams. The trail is also enjoyable outside the flowering season.
Starting point: National Park Gate Höfen, Hauptstraße 72
Elevation gain: approximately 244 m
Best time: April to early May for the daffodils
Höfener Heckenweg – the Hedge Trail
The Höfener Heckenweg is a relatively short walk with a unique character. It takes you past towering beech hedges, traditional half-timbered houses and quiet village streets.
These remarkable hedges have protected homes and gardens from wind and harsh weather for generations. The walk is therefore a lovely introduction to both the landscape and cultural history of the Eifel.
Starting point: National Park Gate Höfen
Trail marking: route number 31
Suitable for: shorter walks, including families
Eifelsteig: Roetgen to Monschau
The Eifelsteig is one of Germany's best-known long-distance hiking trails. Stretching approximately 313 kilometres across 15 stages, it showcases the diverse landscapes of the Eifel.
Stage two leads from Roetgen to Monschau, crossing the border region around the High Fens, passing through woodland and over rolling hills. The walk ends with a descent into Monschau's picturesque historic old town.
It is a particularly rewarding hike if you enjoy combining scenic countryside with beautiful historic towns.
Starting point: Roetgen, Bahnhofstraße
Finish: Monschau, Burgau car park
Important: this is a one-way hike, so arrange transport to the starting point
Unterwegs in Monschau – Trail 55
If you would like to combine nature with Monschau's history, trail 55 is an excellent choice. Starting at Dreistegen, the route follows the beautiful landscape along the River Rur.
Along the way, you will discover wooded stretches and historic sites that reflect Monschau's industrial past as an important centre of textile production.
Starting point: Dreistegen hiking car park
Trail marking: route number 55
Highlights: woodland, river scenery and local history
Unterwegs in Mützenich – Trail 26
The countryside around Mützenich offers open views, peaceful paths and beautiful natural surroundings. This short circular walk is a lovely way to discover the area beyond Monschau's historic centre.
Its manageable length makes it easy to combine with sightseeing or another activity in Monschau.
Starting point: Dorfplatz hiking car park, Mützenich
Trail marking: route number 26
Highlights: open countryside and scenic views
Want to explore more than one hiking trail?
The Daffodil Trail, High Fens and Eifelsteig are difficult to fit into a single day. Staying overnight in Monschau allows you to discover different hiking areas at your own pace, with the historic old town waiting for you at the end of the day.
Walking among wild daffodils near Monschau
Every spring, the countryside around Monschau-Höfen transforms into a spectacular flowering landscape. Thousands of wild daffodils cover parts of the Perlenbach and Fuhrtsbach valleys in yellow.
April is usually the best month to see this natural display, although the exact flowering period depends on the weather and can vary from year to year.
Prefer a shorter walk?
You do not have to complete the full 14.8-kilometre Daffodil Trail. The shorter, signposted trail number 73 offers a circular walk of approximately 5.6 km through the Perlenbach valley.
How to choose the right walk around Monschau
Finding the right hiking trail is easier when you know how much time you have and what kind of scenery you would like to explore.
Hiking with children
The 5.3-kilometre Höfener Heckenweg is a manageable option for families. There is also a shorter version of the hedge walk and a shorter Daffodil Trail near Höfen.
A longer day hike
The Eifelsteig stage from Roetgen to Monschau is a great choice for walkers who enjoy longer distances and varied terrain.
Spring hiking
Choose the Daffodil Trail when the wild flowers are in bloom. The valleys near Höfen are especially beautiful at this time of year.
Nature and local history
Trail 55 combines the River Rur and woodland scenery with historic sites connected to Monschau's textile industry.
Hiking in the High Fens near Monschau
Another fascinating hiking area close to Monschau is the High Fens, known in German as Hohes Venn. This extensive nature reserve lies mainly in Belgium and is famous for its peat bogs, open heathland, forests and wooden boardwalks.
The landscape is very different from the wooded hills surrounding Monschau. This makes it especially rewarding to explore both areas during a longer stay.
Please note that parts of the High Fens may occasionally be closed due to conservation measures, fire risk or weather conditions. Always check local access information before setting off.
For more inspiration, read our guide to Eifel National Park and the High Fens .
Practical tips for hiking around Monschau
The Eifel is a hilly region, and even a 10-kilometre walk can feel more demanding than expected because of the climbs, descents and uneven paths.
Trail signs and hiking maps
Use an official hiking map or download the GPX track before starting. Many routes are marked with numbers, symbols or the distinctive Eifelsteig logo.
Suitable hiking shoes
Paths can become muddy or slippery after rain. Footwear with good grip is recommended, especially on longer walks.
Water and snacks
Take sufficient drinking water and something to eat. Some trails have few places to stop for refreshments along the way.
Parking and starting points
Many circular walks begin at designated hiking car parks. Check the exact starting point on the official route page before travelling.
Why Monschau is ideal for a hiking weekend
If you want to explore several hiking trails around Monschau, there is no need to change accommodation every day. The town makes a convenient base for discovering different landscapes across the Northern Eifel.
After a day in the countryside, you can return to Monschau for an evening among its historic streets and restaurants. Monschauer Apartments offers a selection of holiday apartments in Monschau , each with its own location and character.
Elbershof
A historic building directly beside the River Rur, just a short walk from the old town. An excellent choice for combining hiking with local restaurants and attractions.
Explore Elbershof →Äuchen am Rosenthal
A peaceful riverside setting within walking distance of the historic centre. Especially appealing to families and guests looking for a little more space.
Explore Äuchen am Rosenthal →City Apartments
Perfect if you want to step straight into Monschau's charming old town after a day of hiking. Enjoy a stay in a traditional half-timbered building close to shops and restaurants.
Explore City Apartments →Combine hiking with the highlights of the region
Staying for several days? Explore historic towns, Lake Rur and Eifel National Park as well. Discover more ideas for your stay in our guide to the Monschau surroundings .
Frequently asked questions about hiking in Monschau
What are the best hiking trails around Monschau?
Popular trails include the Daffodil Trail near Höfen, the Höfener Heckenweg, the Eifelsteig and numbered circular routes such as Trail 55 along the River Rur.
Are there signposted walking routes in Monschau?
Yes. Monschau has an extensive network of marked hiking trails. Some routes use numbers such as 26, 31 or 55, while others, including the Daffodil Trail and Eifelsteig, have their own distinctive trail signs.
Can you start hiking directly from Monschau?
Yes. From the historic old town, you can follow walking paths along the River Rur and across the surrounding hills. For other routes, including the Daffodil Trail, you first travel to nearby Höfen.
Which hikes near Monschau are suitable for families?
The 5.3-kilometre Höfener Heckenweg is a manageable choice for many families. There are also shorter routes around the daffodil meadows. Always consider the children's ages, fitness levels and weather conditions.
When do the wild daffodils bloom near Monschau?
The wild daffodils usually bloom in April, sometimes continuing into early May. The exact flowering period depends on the weather.
Where can I find GPX tracks for Monschau hiking routes?
Official tourism websites such as Rureifel Tourismus provide hiking maps, route descriptions and downloadable GPX tracks. Links to the relevant official route pages are included above.
Is Monschau a good base for a hiking holiday?
Yes. Monschau is conveniently located for hiking in the Northern Eifel and the High Fens. From a holiday apartment in Monschau , you can explore several trails and return to the historic old town in the evening.
Turn your hiking trip into a relaxing weekend in Monschau
Walk through forests and river valleys, discover the High Fens and enjoy the atmosphere of Monschau's historic old town. With a holiday apartment in Monschau, you have a comfortable base for several days of hiking in the Eifel.
