Höfen: Daffodils, Forest Transformation and Trails

In spring, wild daffodils appear in the valleys of the Perlenbach and Fuhrtsbach near Höfen. At the same time, the landscape is gradually changing from planted coniferous forests to natural mixed deciduous woodland. These two impressions unfold over different timescales: the blossoms herald the arrival of spring, while the transition in the forest represents a slower change in the landscape. If you are planning a visit for the daffodils, keep the season in mind; the exact timing of the bloom naturally varies.

Experience Nature and Choose Your Trails

The accessible exhibition “Daffodil Delight and Forest Transformation” is located at the Höfen National Park Gate. Audio, scent and touch stations introduce visitors to the national park. Sound, smell and touch offer different sensory ways to engage with the exhibition’s themes. The title also brings together two defining features of the landscape: the daffodil bloom and the transformation of the forest.

Both the Wilderness Trail and the accessible Höfen Hedgerow Trail start at the National Park Gate. The Eifelsteig passes directly by the building. The routes therefore relate to the site in different ways: two start here, while the Eifelsteig runs past the building. The centre also offers e-bike rental, places to rest, and local information about hiking and cycling. If you are planning to rent a bike, it is best to check availability for your dates in advance, as services may change.

You can therefore choose from several options when planning your day: seasonal nature-watching in the valleys, a visit to the exhibition, or trails that start at or pass by the National Park Gate. Which option you focus on may also influence your choice of accommodation and the pace you want for your trip.

Culture and Experiences in the Wider Destination of Monschau

Monschau, the wider destination, also offers its own attractions to discover. Route 15 is available for exploring Monschau’s Old Town independently. The Red House, the half-timbered façades along the Rur and the castle are landmarks of the town of Monschau. A walk through the Old Town thus offers a glimpse into the town’s architectural history.

The Red House was built in 1760 by textile manufacturer Johann Heinrich Scheibler as a combined residence and business premises. Its original dual purpose makes it a tangible testament to the town’s history. At the Monschau Glassworks, visitors can watch glassblowers shape vessels or glass figures from molten glass. Here, the craft itself takes centre stage: heated, malleable glass is transformed into tangible objects.

Monschau is also a destination in its own right for a cycling tour. The “Monschauer-Land-Route” leads through the cloth-making town of Monschau. The Old Town trail, glassworks and cycling route each offer a different focus, and all are explicitly in Monschau. When planning your trip, you can therefore consider nature experiences around Höfen and cultural and town experiences in the wider destination of Monschau as separate interests.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Mützenich, Kalterherberg, Konzen, Rohren.

Go to the overview of the wider destination: Monschau.