Monschau

Monschau is an idyllic medieval town nestled between the moors of the High Fens and the beech groves of Eifel National Park. The town of Monschau was first documented in 1198 and its castle, which can still be seen and explored today was constructed in the 13th-Century. The town has been governed by many ruling entities, including the dukes of Jülich, Emperor Charles V, the French, and the German Emperor William II. Because of its position on a vital and well-traveled road network, Monschau was the northernmost point of the battlefront during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. Today, visitors to the town can walk along its narrow, cobbled streets past half-timbered houses that will make visitors feel like they've fallen into a fairy-tale. The area surrounding Monschau is particularly popular with hikers and cyclists who use the town as a base from which to explore the enchanting and spooky raised bog of the Hohe Venn (High Fens), as well as the serene and mythical woods of Eifel National Park.