Holsthum lies at the confluence of the Enz and Prüm rivers, in the Southern Eifel Nature Park. Here, river scenery, history and trails come together to help you plan your trip: a Roman estate lies near Holsthum, the village is home to Rochus Chapel, and circular hiking trail No. 59 starts in the village centre. You can tailor your stay to your interests, whether that means hiking, cycling or focusing on traces of local culture.
Roman Estate, Chapel and Local History
The main building of the Roman estate near Holsthum was built around 100 AD on a hillside high above the Prüm. Its construction dates the estate to Roman times, while Rochus Chapel in Holsthum, built in 1866, offers a much later point of reference.
Every year on the Monday of the parish fair, a procession goes to Rochus Chapel in Holsthum in remembrance of the time of the plague. If you would like to include this tradition in your travel plans, schedule your visit around the Monday of the parish fair.
In the nearby area between Holsthum and Peffingen, Huwelslay lies on the western slope of the Heiderücken sandstone plateau. Sintering limestone has shaped this geologically distinctive rocky area; crust-like limestone deposits formed a bizarre grotto there. The Langenstein near Holsthum is also referred to as a menhir in the surrounding area. Its name means “Long Stone” in Breton. Unlike the geologically described Huwelslay, the Langenstein is notable for its designation as a menhir and the Breton meaning of its name.
Hiking and Cycling
Circular hiking trail No. 59 starts in the centre of Holsthum and runs past hop fields along the Prüm, over the Irrel Waterfalls and through the forest below Prümer Burg. It then continues through fields and orchards, passing the remains of the Roman Villa on its way back to Holsthum. The route thus links river, forest and open cultural landscape with named historical landmarks.
For a specific hike with named waypoints, circular trail No. 59 provides orientation. The municipality lists ten local hiking trails, covering a total of 82 km. As the range of routes may change, check the latest overview before setting out.
For cycling, Holsthum is on the Prümtal Cycle Path. From Pronsfeld to Holsthum, the Enz Cycle Path follows the river through quiet valleys, picturesque villages and historic landscapes between the Islekhöhen hills and the Prüm valley. The distinction is clear when choosing a route: Holsthum is on the Prümtal Cycle Path, while the Enz Cycle Path is described as following the river from Pronsfeld to Holsthum.
Hop Growing and Visits
Hop growing is a distinct part of the village’s history: the Dick family began cultivating hops in the Holsthum area in 1966. A distillery or hop-growing tour offers visitors another way to get to know the village. Check the arrangements for taking part before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Bollendorf, Ernzen.
Back to the main travel overview: Irrel.
