Woffelsbach on Lake Rur: Water, Trails and Nature

Woffelsbach combines Lake Rur with a wide range of experiences on the water, nature-oriented trails and a remarkable local history. The internationally renowned and challenging sailing area appeals to visitors with an interest in sport, while the Rursee fleet calls at Woffelsbach as part of its cruises on Lake Rur. This allows you to plan your stay in many different ways: with a paddling trip, a boat cruise, a hike or a relaxing break right by the lake.

Water-based activities on Lake Rur

The Woffelsbach landing stage can be used as a starting point for a cruise across Lake Rur. Such a trip can be combined with a hike beforehand or afterwards. Those who want to be out on the water themselves can rent Canadian canoes, kayaks, SUPs and pedal boats at NaBeDi Camp in Woffelsbach Bay. A paddling trip leads from Woffelsbach Bay towards Eschauel.

The bay is highlighted as a swimming area for hot summer days. The swimming zone is located directly in the lake and marked off with yellow buoys. This gives Woffelsbach several ways to plan a day by the water without having to commit to just one activity.

Hiking, Cycling and Protected Landscapes

The 15.2 km 5-Brooks Trail leads through idyllic stream valleys. Highlights include the Wendelinus Chapel, the Wolfsbrunnen spring, the Michelshof wind farm and Woffelsbach Bay. The route passes through an unspoilt landscape protected because of its rare animal and plant species, with streams, stream meadows and floodplain forests.

The 140-hectare Schilsbachtal nature reserve is also located in the vicinity of Woffelsbach. It includes wooded slopes descending towards the Rur Reservoir northeast of Woffelsbach, as well as springs, near-natural sections of streams, wet and damp grassland, floodplain forests and natural rock formations. The area serves to preserve habitats for endangered plant and animal species and to safeguard the otter's range.

For a shorter exploration, the Woffelsbach village walk is a good option. It is around 2.2 km long and takes approximately one hour. The lakeside platform in Woffelsbach is a rest area directly on the lake, suitable for breaks while hiking or cycling. It was built as a rest area for the 60-kilometre “Water Landscape – the Powerful” Time Loop, which runs through the municipality of Simmerath and the urban area of Monschau.

Chapel, Fair and Orchards

Cultural and historical impressions are also part of Woffelsbach's character. The noteworthy Wendelinus Chapel was built in 1911 as a filial church of the parish of Rurberg. The Wendelinus Fair is one of the traditional highlights of events in Woffelsbach. Orchards in the landscape around the village bear witness to a long tradition of fruit growing: cherries and plums thrived particularly well in the sheltered valley, and wine was also cultivated there.

Which Accommodation Suits Your Plans?

When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home in Woffelsbach, it is worth deciding on your preferred travel rhythm first. Those who want to focus on sailing, paddling, swimming or a boat cruise will plan differently from guests who prefer longer routes through stream valleys and nature reserves. A combination of water and land is also possible: a cruise across Lake Rur can be followed by a hike, while the lakeside platform provides a suitable stopping point for a cycling or hiking tour.

For further options, you can also explore Steckenborn, Kesternich, Einruhr and Dedenborn.

To the overarching travel overview: Simmerath.