Bad Münstereifel: Timbered Houses, Forest Trails, and the River Erft

If you head south from Cologne on Autobahn A1, about 30 to 40 kilometers in, there’s an exit toward the town of Bad Münstereifel. It’s a small, picturesque town tucked between forest-covered hills. A fairly lively river called the Erft flows right through it.

The historic town center is full of charming half-timbered houses, and in many ways, the center has been turned into one big shopping area. The surroundings are dotted with retirement homes and various health resorts.

A few years ago, the town was hit hard by flooding after heavy rains. Nearly the entire center was washed out and covered in debris. Much has been restored since then, but you can still spot traces of the destruction.

That said, it’s absolutely worth a visit. It’s especially nice on Sundays, when the shops are closed and the streets are relatively quiet. The Christmas market is also quite beautiful. And if you’re up for it, the forests surrounding the town make for a great walk.