The stars of the regionAutumn stories from the Eifel

Colourful deciduous trees, glowing rock formations, glistening lake. The autumn dress suits the only national park in North Rhine-Westphalia like a glove. No wonder the boys from the city set off to experience an outdoor adventure in the middle of the Eifel National Park, where the stars keep an eye on their visitors all day long before making their special appearance at night and twinkling in competition with each other.
Because the park is also a star park. The ideal end to the day? Enjoy the romance of a campfire and good conversation at one of the many idyllic campsites in the park.

Everyone out into the Eifel!

As silent observers, we watch from above. Accompanying the group that has set off from the bustling city to experience an outdoor adventure in the middle of the Eifel National Park. During the day, we stay in the background and let another celestial body take the lead. Because right now, in autumn, it is the sun with its golden light that makes the only national park in North Rhine-Westphalia even more beautiful than it already is all year round. But our time comes at night and we show ourselves from our best side. That's when we can shine. Or rather: sparkle.

But first things first, let's start the day from the beginning: The leaves crackle under your hiking boots. From above: A shower of leaves. The typical scent of autumn is already in the air and that's not the only reason why the four boys are up early. It's not unusual for visitors to experience a picture-book morning atmosphere here. Sunrise meets morning mist. It goes without saying that the camera is a constant companion.

240 kilometres of hiking trails. Endless possibilities. The national park is definitely a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. However, it's not easy to decide which path to take. Bird-watching, Eifel fjords, wild forests and meadows. Different routes, different highlights. What did the boys decide on? The red sandstone route! Good choice - we can see it directly from up here. Rock formations, distant views, photo spots as far as the eye can see. If this isn't a weekend that everyone will remember for a long time to come.

The banks of the Rursee look like a painting. The townspeople are quick to agree. Colourful deciduous trees are reflected in the glistening, clear water. And the ruins of Nideggen Castle are enthroned on high rocks. The hikers get closer and closer to it as they make their way through dense forests. But it is always worth pausing. The Christinenlay viewing platform stretches out below the castle ruins. What a view of the Rur valley! And there are quite a few of them here. The stars of the route? Definitely the namesakes of the trail. Imposing, reddish sandstone rocks jutting out of the dense autumn forest. They literally glow in the sunlight, I hear the group marvelling. They are right.

The Rursee has such a strong attraction that it drives the group back to the shore after their hike. The kayaks are quickly hired and it's "Ahoy, blue Eifel beauty!". Let yourself drift. Enjoy the peace and quiet. Listen to the lapping of the water, the wind and the twittering of birds. Enjoy yet another completely different view of the Eifel. What better way to end this day?

Clearly: with our performance. The sun slowly sets and the boys set up camp at the campsite. A good night's sleep in the wild. If it's an outdoor adventure, then it's the right one. A campfire atmosphere is a must - but only at designated fireplaces, please. Listen to the mysterious crackling of the forest together in the cosy warmth. The irresistible smell of stick bread fills the air. "Here's to this amazing weekend!" the four of us toast each other.

As soon as it gets dark and we make our grand entrance, the eyes of visitors to the Eifel are involuntarily drawn to the night sky. Because you can see us, the stars, better here in the Eifel than anywhere else. Towards midnight, we offer a true celestial spectacle. Can you see the Milky Way with the naked eye? It's possible here in the national park, which is also a star park. What a way to end the day. So close to the universe, so far away from everyday life.