AhrSteig Stage 1: Blankenheim-Freilinger See
Blankenheim → Freilinger See
Stage 1
The source of the Ahr River in Blankenheim marks the start of the first stage of the AhrSteig. The historic old town exudes medieval charm, with ancient city gates and romantic half-timbered buildings. The Blankenheim Castle complex, which has existed since the 12th century and is situated above the town, offers views of the peaks of the Ahr Mountains. The Eifel Museum, with its permanent and temporary exhibitions on folklore and natural history, is located along the trail. The trail winds through narrow, winding alleys, along the Schwanenweiher pond, and follows the upper reaches of the Ahr downstream. It passes under a railroad underpass, followed by an ascent. The route transitions into a forest trail that runs through dense beech woods above the Ahr Valley. The Oberahreck Viaduct is located a short distance off the trail before reaching the plateau of the Birker Berg. The effort of the climbs is rewarded with sweeping views of the southern peaks of the Hohe Eifel. The trail continues through cornfields, over quiet forest paths on the Bohrsberg, to the shore of Lake Freilingen. The recreational area at Lake Freilingen offers a wide range of leisure activities. In the summer, the lake serves as a magnet for surfers and water sports enthusiasts.
- Ascent
- 161 m
- Descent
- 182 m
- Highest point
- 512 m
- Lowest point
- 396 m
