Short answer: the best motorcycle routes in the Eifel are around the volcanic crater lakes near Daun, past the Hohe Acht and the Nürburgring, through the Ahr Valley, around the Rursee and along the Moselle between Cochem and Bernkastel-Kues. For many Dutch riders the Eifel is only a few hours away, which makes it one of the most popular riding areas for a long weekend or a day trip.
The Eifel is an old volcanic region in the west of Germany. The landscape keeps changing: open plateaus, deep river valleys, dense forests and craters filled with water. For motorcyclists that means one thing above all: bends, and lots of them. In this guide we line up the ten best routes, with what you can expect on each.
1. The Volcanic Eifel and the Daun Maars
Around Daun, three crater lakes lie close together: the Gemündener Maar, the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar. The roads around them wind over hills with wide views. A ride from Mayen via Daun to Gerolstein is a relaxed, varied route that also suits riders who have not covered many miles yet.
2. The Hohe Acht and the Nürburgring
At roughly 747 metres, the Hohe Acht is the highest point of the Eifel. The roads around Adenau and Nürburg are sporty, with hairpins and fast sections. If you want to ride a lap of the famous Nordschleife yourself, you can do so during the so-called Touristenfahrten (tourist sessions). This is paid and at your own risk, and opening times vary from day to day. So check the Nürburgring website beforehand.
3. The Ahr Valley
The Ahr Valley is a narrow river valley with steep vineyard slopes. The road along the Ahr, around Altenahr and Mayschoß, follows the bends of the river and is one of the most beautiful stretches of the Eifel on a sunny day. Combine it with a stop in one of the wine villages, but save the wine for after the ride, of course.
4. Eifel National Park and the Rursee
In the north of the Eifel lies Eifel National Park with the Rursee. A route from Heimbach via Rurberg to Monschau runs along the water, through forests and over hills with views of the reservoir. A pleasant route for anyone who wants to build up gently.
5. Monschau and the High Fens
Monschau is one of the prettiest towns in the Eifel, with half-timbered houses and narrow streets along the river. From here you can ride straight across the border to the High Fens in Belgium, an upland bog area with open plains and long, flowing roads. Note: the weather can turn quickly here and it is often colder than in the valleys.
6. The Moselle: from Cochem to Bernkastel-Kues
The Moselle forms the southern edge of the Eifel and is a classic. The road follows the river bends past vines, castles and villages such as Beilstein and Zell. If you ride back over the hills, you get the hairpins that climb out of the valley.
7. Manderscheid and its castles
Around Manderscheid, two castle ruins sit in a deep valley. The roads here are narrow and twisty, with beautiful glimpses through the trees. An ideal section to include in a longer loop through the Volcanic Eifel.
8. The Kyll Valley
The Kyll winds from north to south through the Eifel. The road along the river, including around Gerolstein, is relaxed riding with long, flowing bends. Near Gerolstein you can see the rock formations known as the Gerolstein Dolomites.
9. The Southern Eifel and the Mullerthal in Luxembourg
From Bitburg it is just a few minutes to Echternach in Luxembourg. The Mullerthal, also known as Little Switzerland, is known for its sandstone rocks. Carry on to Vianden with its castle high above the valley. A full day ride, with varied and sometimes challenging tarmac.
10. Laacher See, Maria Laach and Burg Eltz
The Laacher See is the largest lake in the Eifel, with Maria Laach Abbey on its shore. Combine it with Burg Eltz, one of the best-known castles in Germany, tucked away in a wooded valley. The last stretch to the castle is on foot from the car park.
What to know before you go
- Weekend motorcycle bans: on some roads in Germany, motorcycles are banned at weekends and on public holidays. Watch the signs carefully and plan your route accordingly.
- Weather: on the plateaus it is often a few degrees colder than in the valleys, and a shower can arrive quickly. Always bring rain gear.
- Road surface: in wooded sections and after rain the tarmac can be slippery from leaves, gravel or moss. Take bends you do not know at a calm pace.
- Crowds: around the Nürburgring it is very busy with bikes and cars on sunny weekend days. During the week you ride in much more peace.
More inspiration for Germany? Also read our top 10 motorcycle routes in Germany.
The right gear for the Eifel
A jacket for changeable weather
In the Eifel you can ride through sun, wind and rain in a single day. A waterproof jacket with ventilation is the most comfortable choice. The Leatt ADV DriTour 5.5 has a HydraDri membrane and AA certification. If you mostly ride in summer, the FlowTour 5.5 with a separate rain jacket is the airier option.
Boots for long days
At a castle or viewpoint you will also walk a bit, so comfortable, waterproof boots are no luxury.
Gloves and rain gear
Waterproof gloves and a rain suit under the seat make sure a shower does not ruin your day. Also read our guide to waterproof motorcycle clothing.
An intercom for group rides
If you ride through the Eifel with friends, an intercom makes things a lot easier: navigation in your ear and a way to agree where to stop. Which one suits you best, you can read in our intercom guide.
A lock for the road
On a terrace or at a castle you want to leave your bike with peace of mind. A disc lock is easy to take along.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to ride in the Eifel?
From May to September the weather is most stable. Spring and autumn are quieter and often beautiful, but expect cold mornings and slippery, wet leaves.
How far is the Eifel from the Netherlands?
From Limburg you are there within an hour. From the Randstad you are usually on the road for a few hours, depending on where in the Eifel you want to start.
Can I ride my motorcycle on the Nürburgring?
Yes, during the Touristenfahrten on the Nordschleife. This is paid and at your own risk. For current times and rules, always check the official Nürburgring website.
Is the Eifel suitable for beginner riders?
Definitely. Routes such as the Volcanic Eifel and the Rursee are quiet and easy to read. The sportier roads around the Hohe Acht and the Nürburgring are best saved until you have more experience.
What should I bring for a motorcycle weekend in the Eifel?
Rain gear, an extra layer for the cool mornings, a lock and a phone mount or navigation. For a complete list, read our motorcycle holiday packing list, coming soon.
Ready for the Eifel?
Unsure about your gear or size? Get in touch via the contact page and we will help you think it through.