Those choosing Neroth as a hiking destination will find two different options: the Eifelsteig passes right by the village, while the circular hike “Around Neroth: Forests, Volcano, Ruin” takes a loop through forests and fields. There are also volcanic traces and evidence of local history. This makes it easy to tailor your stay to your interests: a long-distance trail, a locally described circular route or historic discoveries.
Hiking between a circular route and a long-distance trail
The Eifelsteig passes directly by Neroth. The circular hike “Around Neroth: Forests, Volcano, Ruin” is 15.6 kilometres long, rated moderate and listed as taking 4 hours and 10 minutes. It follows a wide loop around Neroth through forests and fields, following marker 1. The entire route is marked with a white 1 on a blue background.
The local loop offers a specific distance and duration; the Eifelsteig, as a long-distance trail, passes directly by the village. When planning your hikes, you can compare the stated duration of the loop with your own schedule for the day. Check the latest route information before setting out, and look out for the trail markers along the way.
Volcanic landscape and traces of millstone quarrying
Nerother Kopf is an extinct volcano that formed about 15,000 years ago. The wooded area around Nerother Kopf contains volcanic bombs, Krotzen (lava formations) and the remains of a millstone quarry. Geological features and remnants of past quarrying can be found side by side here, offering a different perspective on the landscape beyond the hiking trails.
The wider region also offers a broader geological context: Across the wider Volcanic Eifel destination, 77 maars have been identified to date and 350 eruption centres counted, around 270 of them from the more recent phase.
History and traditions in Neroth
The ruins of Nerother Burg and the area around Mühlsteinhöhle are protected cultural monuments associated with Neroth. Mühlsteinhöhle can no longer be entered. A ruin dating from the 15th century remains at Burghaus; its surviving features include two gables, each 12 metres high, and the hillside wall.
The history of the Mousetrap Museum is linked to Neroth’s former wireworking trade. Theodor Kläs introduced wire weaving in the 19th century; Josef Pfeil’s workshop forms the core of the museum. This takes another part of the village’s history from its landscape and natural resources to traditional craftsmanship.
Another historic landmark is the founding of the Nerother Wandervögel: the association was founded in Nerother Höhle on New Year’s Eve 1919/20. The name of this cave should not be confused with Mühlsteinhöhle.
Traditional customs are also part of local life. Associations keep them alive with celebrations such as Radschieben, the Easter egg race, raising the maypole, the village festival and the Christmas village. These examples range from seasonal customs to village celebrations; dates and formats may change.
Practical information for visitors
If you are arriving by car, free parking is available at the church in Neroth and at two hiking car parks along the L27. Neroth also has three establishments serving regional cuisine. Local amenities also include a salt cave.
As parking availability, dining options and facilities may change, check what is available during your travel dates.
Discover more destinations: Birresborn, Gees, Hohenfels-Essingen, Oos, Duppach, Salm, MĂĽrlenbach, Densborn.
For the overview of the wider travel region: Gerolstein.
