Eifel Expedition with Rosemarie Steffen

On a round hike from Auw over the Belgian border to Weckerath, the border crossers' tour combines nature experience with regional border history: Starting at the Auwer reservoir, it follows the traces of smugglers along their former route along the border waters. Historically, this marked the boundary between the Hofgut Auw (Archbishopric of Trier) and Manderfeld, which belongs to the Diocese of Liège, with its hamlets Weckerath and Krewinkel. As early as the 4th century, both legal and illegal trade thrived here. Particularly during the hardships of the post-war period, the region was a hotspot for coffee smuggling, where people risked and even lost their lives crossing the border. The return route leads via Weckerath, where the tour concludes with a view of the two countries. The guided hike along the “Coffee Front” not only offers exciting insights into personal fates and history leading up to modern Europe but also the opportunity to enjoy the landscape and nature of the Eifel border region.

Included: Nature park advisor
Not included: Food and drinks
What to bring: Sturdy footwear, weatherproof clothing, sun protection, Food and drinks
Number of participants: The tour takes place with a maximum of 20 participants.
Difficulty/Requirements: The hike is approximately 6 km long, has an easy level of difficulty, and requires sturdy footwear and surefootedness. The route is not suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

For info & registration:
https://www.naturpark-eifel.de/de/

Time: October 25, 2025 at 1:30 PM (Duration 3 hours)
Cost: €5.00, free parking available
Location: Hiking parking lot Anglerhütte at the Auwer reservoir
Info Tel.: 06551 985755