Nationaal Park Eifel

Eifel National Park: Untamed Nature Just Across the Border Eifel National Park, located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a hidden gem for nature lovers. Spanning over 110 km², this protected area features a stunning landscape of dense forests, rolling hills, streams, reservoirs, and meadows. Nature takes the lead here – wildlife roams freely, and humans are simply visitors. Established in 2004, it is the first national park in the region and home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including wildcats, black storks, lynxes, deer, foxes, and hundreds of bird and insect species. Guided by the principle of “letting nature be nature,” the forest evolves without human interference. With more than 240 kilometers of hiking trails, the park is a paradise for walkers and cyclists. One of the highlights is the Wilderness Trail, a four-day route crossing the park from north to south. Each season transforms the park into a new landscape: lush in spring, golden in autumn, and quiet and snowy in winter. Along the trails, you’ll find viewpoints, rest areas, and educational panels. You can also join ranger-led hikes, offering a deeper insight into the region’s natural and cultural history. A special feature of Eifel National Park is its designation as a Dark Sky Park. Due to the lack of light pollution, the night sky here is remarkably clear – perfect for stargazing and astrophotography. The park is family- and wheelchair-friendly, with accessible paths and engaging visitors’ centers like the National Park Centre Eifel in Vogelsang IP, featuring interactive exhibitions about nature, conservation, and local history. Whether you're looking for peace, adventure, or education, Eifel National Park delivers a genuine and immersive nature experience – all just a short drive from the Dutch or Belgian border.