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National Park Gate Heimbach: Gateway to Wilderness

Discover the Eifel National Park from Heimbach: Explore forest secrets, hike scenic trails, and experience the beauty of the Rur valley in this charming gateway town.

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The National Park Gate in Heimbach serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Eifel National Park. Located in the historic Heimbach train station, the gate offers visitor information, a digital terrain model, and films about the park. The exhibition, currently closed for renovations, usually reveals the 'Forest Secrets' through an immersive audio experience featuring the wildcat and black stork. The gate is wheelchair accessible and provides various tactile elements, making it an inclusive experience for all visitors. Free guided tours into the Kermeter and Hetzingen forests commence here, offering insights into the region's biodiversity and natural beauty. Heimbach itself, a charming town nestled in the Rur valley, provides a perfect base with its numerous hiking trails and cultural attractions.

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Local tips

  • Check the official website for updates on the reopening of the 'Forest Secrets' exhibition before your visit.
  • Consider visiting Burg Hengebach for panoramic views of Heimbach and the surrounding Rur valley.
  • If you're interested in a longer hike, explore a section of the 'Wilderness Trail' that passes near Heimbach.
  • Take advantage of the free guided tours offered from the National Park Gate to learn about the region's biodiversity and natural history.
  • Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the RurUfer-Radweg, which follows the course of the Rur River through the Eifel National Park.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Heimbach (Eifel) train station, the National Park Gate is directly adjacent, a mere few steps away. The RB21 Rurtalbahn line serves Heimbach, connecting to Düren. From Düren, you can connect to regional and national rail services. Single fare from Düren to Heimbach is approximately €7. The 231 bus line also stops at Heimbach Bf (Bahnhof), providing connections to surrounding towns. A single bus fare within the Heimbach area costs around €3.

  • Walking

    From anywhere in the town center of Heimbach, the National Park Gate is easily accessible by foot. Follow signs towards the Bahnhof (train station). The gate is located within the historic train station building on An der Laag. Walking from the Burg Hengebach takes approximately 10-15 minutes, mostly downhill.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to An der Laag 4, 52396 Heimbach. Limited parking is available near the train station. Parking fees range from €1-€2 per hour, with a daily maximum of €5. During peak season, parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using public transport. From the parking area, the National Park Gate is a short walk.

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The National Park Gate in Heimbach is more than just an information center; it's a portal to the wild heart of the Eifel National Park. Housed within the beautifully restored historic train station of Heimbach, this gate extends a warm welcome to visitors eager to explore one of Germany's most captivating natural landscapes. While the exhibition is temporarily closed, the gate continues to function as a crucial hub for information, orientation, and the commencement of unforgettable adventures. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by friendly staff ready to provide guidance on hiking trails, cycling routes, and the diverse flora and fauna that call the park home. A digital terrain model offers a bird's-eye view of the park's topography, allowing for strategic planning of excursions. National Park films showcase the park's stunning scenery and highlight its conservation efforts, setting the stage for an immersive experience. The 'Forest Secrets' exhibition, when open, is a highlight, offering an interactive audio journey through a forest labyrinth. The wildcat, the park's emblematic animal, and a black stork engage visitors with tales of their experiences within the National Park. This engaging exhibit uses tactile elements and texts in Braille to ensure accessibility for all. Beyond the immediate offerings of the National Park Gate, Heimbach itself is a destination worthy of exploration. This charming town, nestled in the Rur valley, boasts a rich history and a tranquil atmosphere. Burg Hengebach, a medieval castle overlooking the town, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The International Art Academy, located within the castle, adds a contemporary cultural dimension to the historic setting. The town's parish and pilgrimage church is a testament to Heimbach's spiritual heritage, while the Trappist Abbey of Mariawald, located nearby, provides a serene retreat and the opportunity to sample their famous pea soup. The RWE-Industriemuseum, housed in a Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) hydropower plant, showcases the region's industrial history in a visually stunning setting. Heimbach's location on the Rursee (Rur Lake) makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding forests, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the Eifel landscape. The 'Wilderness Trail', a multi-day hiking route through the National Park, passes near Heimbach, providing an opportunity for more adventurous explorations. Cyclists can enjoy scenic rides along the RurUfer-Radweg (Rur River cycling path), which follows the course of the Rur River. The Eifel National Park itself is a realm of biodiversity and natural beauty. Ancient beech forests, rare plant species, and diverse wildlife thrive within its boundaries. Visitors can spot wildcats, black storks, red deer, and numerous bird species. The park's commitment to wilderness conservation allows nature to take its course, creating a dynamic and evolving landscape. Accessibility is a key consideration at the National Park Gate Heimbach. The gate is wheelchair accessible, with disabled toilet facilities and tactile elements in the exhibition. The Eifel National Park Administration also organizes tours through the exhibition in German sign language. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll through the forest, a challenging hike to a scenic viewpoint, or a cultural exploration of a historic town, the National Park Gate Heimbach provides the perfect starting point for your Eifel adventure. The combination of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and commitment to accessibility makes this destination a must-visit for any traveler to the Eifel region. However, it's important to note that the National Park exhibition is temporarily closed. Visitors should check the official website for updates on its reopening. Despite the closure, the National Park Gate remains a valuable resource for information and orientation, and the surrounding area offers plenty to see and do. Consider exploring the nearby Dormio Resort Eifeler Tor, which offers accommodations and access to the Schwammenauel reservoir. While the resort itself may not be fully accessible to wheelchair users due to its hillside location, many of its facilities are accessible to people with limited mobility. For those interested in longer hikes, the 'Wilderness Trail' is a challenging but rewarding option. This 85-kilometer trail takes hikers through the heart of the Eifel National Park, showcasing its diverse landscapes and natural beauty. The trail is divided into four stages, with Heimbach serving as the end point for the third stage. Whether you're arriving by train, bus, or car, the National Park Gate Heimbach is easily accessible. The train station is located directly adjacent to the gate, and bus services connect Heimbach to other towns in the region. Parking is available near the train station, making it convenient for those arriving by car. In conclusion, the National Park Gate Heimbach is a welcoming and informative gateway to the wonders of the Eifel National Park. Its location in the charming town of Heimbach, combined with its commitment to accessibility and its wealth of information, makes it an essential stop for any visitor to the region.

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