I actually planned to do a four-day hiking trip, but it was cut short due to bad weather and a foot injury. And yet, I still have a lot to report.

On Thursday, I drove to North Rhine-Westphalia. I didn’t have to worry about accommodations, as I was staying with a friend. The first thing that struck me was the incredible beauty of the landscape. Lush green meadows, forests, and hills were everywhere. I’d never been to Ireland before, but I imagine it would be exactly like that.

We started our first hike at Freilinger See. We walked around it, a distance of approximately 3 km. 75% of the trail led through the forest, with numerous footbridges and opportunities for swimming.

The lake is a so-called reservoir. In addition to hiking and walking, the lake also offers a large lawn for relaxation with a bar and restaurant. Besides swimming, you can also rent boats, windsurf, and dive. And if you plan to stay for several days, you can drive across the street to the campsite with a mini golf course.

Our next two-hour hike took us to 1,000-year-old Blankenheim. This town was once a county, of which the castle still remains. However, it has undergone several restorations and is now a youth hostel for school groups and families. Famous events in Blankenheim included the witch trials in the 16th century, in which almost 50 people were burned at the stake.

What else is there to do in Blankenheim besides hiking? There’s an Eifel Museum, cute little shops, and, above all, the old town center of Blankenheim is definitely worth a visit.