Eckfeld is a small settlement in the Volcanic Eifel. The Eckfeld Maar is one of Europe’s most significant fossil sites and formed around 44 million years ago, during an early phase of Eifel volcanism. This geological period connects with other specific local themes: St. Catherine’s Church, forest ecology and cycling.
Fossils and protected area
Around the dry Eckfeld Maar, information boards explain fossil discoveries and the conclusions drawn from them. In this way, specific finds are presented alongside their interpretation. The area has been protected since 1988; digging independently is prohibited. Visitors to the excavation site are advised to park at Eckfeld sports ground and walk the short distance. Check locally before travelling in case conditions have changed.
Church history in Eckfeld
The church tower in Eckfeld was built around 1450. St. Catherine’s was initially built in the 1450s as an addition to a defensive tower. Its west tower dates from the second half of the 15th century and was originally fortified. After a fire, St. Catherine’s was rebuilt in the 19th century. Its architectural history can thus be read as a sequence of medieval construction and later restoration.
Experience the forest and get creative
The Määrchen Nature Forest Trail was designed specifically for children. Along woodland paths, the ecosystem is explained in a playful way. Unlike the fossil theme, the focus here is on how the forest works and on presenting these connections in a child-friendly way. For travellers with children, this focus offers a specific point of reference when choosing a nature-themed activity.
Creative work is also part of what’s on offer: seminars are held in the former village school, where participants work with wood and natural stone. Instruction ranges from basic practical guidance to support with artistic design. The focus here is on creating something yourself, with guidance suited to different levels of experience.
Cycle routes and the wider landscape
The Maare-Mosel Cycle Route passes directly by Eckfeld. For cyclists, this provides a specific local reference point when planning a trip. The Lieser Trail has a different regional scope: it is 74 kilometres long and connects the Eifel and the Moselle. When planning a trip, the cycle route offers a direct link to Eckfeld, while the Lieser Trail shows the connection between the two landscapes.
The wider travel destination of Bernkastel-Wittlich brings together the volcanic Eifel, the romantic Moselle Valley and the Hunsrück, with its abundant forests and meadows. The 816-metre-high Erbeskopf is also part of this wider setting: it invites visitors to go hiking and offers winter sports. At the Erbeskopf, the National Park Gate provides information about nature and the environment; its interactive multimedia exhibition focuses on forests and moors.
Discover more destinations: Wallscheid, Laufeld, Eisenschmitt, Meerfeld, Hasborn, Karl, Bettenfeld, Greimerath
Back to the main travel overview: Manderscheid.
