Dollendorf is located in the Kalkeifel. The Dollendorf Stations of the Cross leads from the northern edge of the village to Schloßthal; two named hikes add longer routes with approximate walking times. There are also historic buildings and a chapel with a distinctive Lenten tradition. This makes it possible to plan a stay that combines hiking with local history.

Stations of the Cross, Village Centre and Castle Ruins

The Dollendorf Stations of the Cross begins at the Catholic parish church of St. John the Baptist and comprises nine stations. It runs from the northern edge of Dollendorf to Schloßthal. As a listed historic monument, it is recorded in the List of Monuments in Blankenheim as No. 77, dated 15 July 1988. It is also considered a defining feature of the Dollendorf–Ahrhütte Historic Cultural Landscape Area. Its route, starting point and heritage designation make it a key cultural attraction in Dollendorf.

The village centre also offers a glimpse of local architectural history: it is home to several typical courtyard complexes dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, built of rubble stone and half-timbering. Often, only the gable-end residential and barn buildings have survived. The ruins of Dollendorf Castle are locally known by the popular name “God’s Finger.” Its partially preserved tower was originally about 20 metres high, and the castle’s ground plan has also survived. Information boards explain the former owners and the site’s historical significance.

Chapel and Hikes

The Chapel of St. Anthony of Padua was built in the 18th century. The St. Anthony field chapel stands on a small hill between Dollendorf and Schloßthal and was built in 1701 by Maximilian Philipp, Count of Manderscheid and Blankenheim. It is associated with foot processions on Tuesdays during Lent, when a service is held in honour of St. Anthony of Padua.

Two hikes with different time commitments are available. The “Juniper Heath” hike is 10.3 kilometres long, takes about three hours and starts in Schloßthal, 53945 Blankenheim-Dollendorf. “Silence in the Beech Forest” covers a total of 16.2 kilometres and takes about four and a half hours. The starting point is P1 at Antoniushof Primary School in 53945 Blankenheim-Dollendorf.

Comparing the routes helps with planning your day: “Silence in the Beech Forest” is longer and takes more walking time than the “Juniper Heath” hike. Both times are approximate. Check current trail conditions before setting out, as they can change.

More destinations in the wider Blankenheim destination

The wider Blankenheim destination has its own cultural attractions and excursion destinations. Blankenheim Castle was originally built around 1115 as a hilltop castle and was transformed over time from a medieval fortification into a Baroque palace. Other sights in Blankenheim include the Eifel Museum, as well as the Shepherd’s Gate and St. George’s Gate.

The source of the Ahr in Blankenheim is a shared landmark for hiking and cycling routes: the Ahr-Steig and Ahr Cycle Route start there, while the seventh stage of the Eifelsteig passes by the spring. RadBus route 899, “Upper Ahr Valley,” runs between Blankenheim and Ahrbrück. Check the timetable before travelling.

Another seasonal option in Blankenheim is the Ghost Train. It takes place every year on Carnival Saturday and starts at 7:11 p.m. at the pharmacy on Ahrstraße. Anyone joining as a “ghost” needs a white bedsheet and a pitch torch. Check the specific event dates and packages before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Ahrdorf, Freilingen, Ripsdorf, Reetz, Lommersdorf.

Back to the main travel overview: Blankenheim.