Eifelgold Route

This hiking tour in the NaturWanderPark delux is an absolute insider tip among the hikes in the Eifel, especially in spring, because here the golden-yellow broom blooms in great abundance:

At first they are isolated, the golden yellow spots that announce spring. And suddenly there are whole carpets of blooming broom, which a few days later lushly clothe the slopes in the Irsen Valley and triumph as Eifel gold. It is the wake-up call for thousands and thousands of little creatures to emerge or hatch. Busy bees, beetles and butterflies visit the bright yellow flowers, make them explode and spread pollinated broom pollen on their bellies and backs. 
This special heath landscape on both sides of the river Irsen is under nature protection. It is the habitat of an extremely large number of insect species, some of which are very rare. For example, 544 species of large butterflies, especially moths, have been recorded! Where there are many insects, many birds nest, buzzards, mice, foxes and hedgehogs are at home. In short: The Irsen valley is a functioning natural paradise and the Eifelgold route leads you gently on farm and forest paths right through this "valley of 1000 butterflies".

Broom grove and beaver castle

You start at the hikers' parking lot on the B 410, close to the camping site on the Irsen. The first highlight is a small recreation area with a pond, a waterfall and a wooden bridge. On the right side of the waterfall is a beaver lodge. With a little luck and patience you will see the industrious builders. If not, save this experience for later, because the Eifelgold route passes by here again on its way back.
So stay on the left side of the stream and follow the winding course of the Irsen, your lively rippling companion, to the small village of Falkenauel. At the Karlshausen mill you cross the Irsen, steadily gain altitude on a winding forest path and enjoy a magnificent view of the Ardennes on the Hüberg. After a rest, you continue on winding paths in the direction of Daleiden. After passing a large cemetery of honor, the route turns downhill to reach the Irsen Valley recreation area again and conclude the circular route.
With almost 20 km, the Eifelgold route is one of the more demanding premium hiking trails in the NaturWanderPark delux. You should plan at least 6 hours.