Eifelsteig Stage 06

The sixth stage of the Eifelsteig runs from Steinfeld through the nature experience village of Nettersheim to Blankenheim
On this Eifelsteig stage, you experience long-ago times, from the Romans to the middle ages. The starting point is Steinfeld Abbey. You leave the peace of the abbey walls behind and hike down into the valley of the Gillesbach. The subsequent climb to Königsberg will reward you with a view of the towers of Steinfeld Abbey that can be seen behind you in the distance. Protected by dense treetops, you hike on until you meet an old friend - if you have already hiked Eifelsteig stage five at least. The Urft river, which winds through the valley meadows, accompanies you again for quite a while. But the Urft is not the only body of water here, because you soon come to an unusually surrounded spring. Water is the source of life - and the Romans already knew to appreciate this special natural treasure, protecting it here at the Grüner Pütz spring. In order to transport the Eifel water safely to Cologne, the Romans even built it its own pipeline. Medusae also guard the spring - there are eight! According to legend, you cannot look them in the eyes or you will turn to stone and then crumble to dust. 
The medusae can’t do you any harm, so it’s on through Nettersheim with it’s nature experience centre and opportunities to stop for refreshments and take a break. Feeling relaxed, you hike along the wooden walkway at Römerweiher lake. A little later, you have the opportunity to make a detour to the Roman temple complex of Görresburg. Meadows and floodplains accompany you, as do colourful butterflies and small sections of forest. Your destination for the day, Blankenheim, greets you with an imposing castle. According to finds, a Roman fortress originally stood here, then a medieval castle complex was built to which baroque elements were later added. Today, the castle is home to a youth hostel. In the medieval town centre of Blankenheim, you can stroll amongst the timber-framed houses at the end of the day and discover another spring: The Ahr river rises here.