Eifelsteig - Stage 1 from Kornelimünster to Roetgen

Like the content of the atlas, the Eifelsteig also begins in the city of Aachen. More specifically, it starts in the idyllic Kornelimünster, through which the Inde stream flows. The starting point of the first stage and the so-called Eifelsteig is the former Benedictine abbey in the historic town center of the Eifel.

Here, where the Camino de Santiago also runs, you start along the Inde and upon leaving Kornelimünster, the view turns to the Itertalviadukt, followed shortly by the first larger slope. You ascend via high stairs and also a narrow path to the places of Hahn and Friesenrath. There, you pass by the St. Bernhard chapel before exploring the forest near Rott, where you can take a break under large weather mushrooms.

One of the highlights of the first Eifelsteig stage is the Struffelt nature reserve, which is traversed on wooden paths, while heather blooms on both sides of the road. Afterwards, you enjoy the view of the Dreilägerbach dam by the water before descending again via a steep path. Right behind it, you see relics from World War II at the West wall and enjoy the view of Roetgen. You reach the village and thus the end of the stage via a narrow path along the Vennbahn railway.