Trekking

The Schönecker Switzerland is a little-known but extraordinarily diverse nature reserve in the Südeifel. It is characterized by deep-cut valleys with clear streams and wide plateaus. Rare orchids bloom on the valley slopes, and slender juniper trees grow. By the way, it owes its name to the gentian, which grows here just like in the Alps. In the beech forests, the ground is a carpet of flowers made of spring snowflakes and wild garlic. In the summer, the broom shines brightly. Narrow hiking paths wind through the area, where you seldom encounter other people.
Our seven-hour trek begins and ends directly below the ruins of the Schönecken castle. After an enjoyable introduction, during which you will meet the llamas, we start our tour into the nature reserve "Schönecker Switzerland".

Right at the beginning, we hike down into the valley of the Altburgbach. Orchard meadows and the slender silhouettes of juniper bushes accompany us. Then we climb the ridge "Op Ischt" and enjoy our first views far beyond the plateau. Shortly after, we enter the beech forest and reach a hidden clearing where we take our first break.
First above, later along the Schalkenbach and the Kupferbach, we continue through the forest on narrow paths. Our destination is the enchanted Krausbeech in the area of Fleringen. This spot already had a court beech in the Middle Ages, equally gnarled and twisted as today’s beech. The Krausbeech is one of the very rare Süntel beeches, also known as snake or cripple beech, witch or devil wood. It grows out of rugged dolomite rocks, and its roots grip firmly into the stone. The trunk, branches, and twigs are often twisted and entwined, forming a shaded roof over the rocks with deeply hanging foliage. Many legends and stories surround this rare tree. Near this magical place, we take a longer break before we turn southwest again.
For a short while, we wander through the fields of the ridge "Op Ischt" and then descend again into the beech forests. On a steep, falling rocky spur high above the Altburg valley lies the ancient Celtic refuge. One can easily imagine why the Celts chose this secluded place as a retreat. Following the Altburgbach, we return to our starting point after about seven hours. Upon arrival, we have to say goodbye to our loyal companions, the llamas.
If you have other wishes regarding the route, please let us know in advance. We are happy to adjust the route.

Included: about seven-hour hike with breaks
German and English speaking trekking guide
Two people share one llama.

What to bring: Hiking shoes with a sturdy, slip-resistant sole, day backpack, water bottle, rainproof clothing, headwear (depending on the season for sun, rain, or cold)

Participants: exclusive, individual event for a small group with max. 4 persons

Requirements: Average fitness required (total distance about 17 km, altitude difference 280 m), minimum age for leading an animal: 10 years. Participation under 18 years only in the company of an adult. Unfortunately, dogs cannot be brought along.

More information / registration and prices at Llama hike - magical places (individual).

Time: in summer Saturday at 09:00
Costs: group ticket (small group) from €340, each additional person (from the 5th person) €80
Location: Llama pasture at Rammenfeld 6, Schönecken
Info Tel.: 06553-8329762
Email: post@eifeltrekking.de