ETE: German-Luxembourg Nature Preserve

Published April 28, 2015
By Iris Reiff
52nd FIghter Wing Public Affairs

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Spangdahlem Sabers can enjoy the beautiful scenery, go for a hike through the woods, along rocks and gorges or just simply have a good time at the popular German-Luxembourg Nature Preserve, located only 45-minutes away from the base.

The preserve starts in Irrel, a town located near the Luxembourg border, however it is still on the German side. To get to Irrel, drive toward Luxembourg from Bitburg and follow the signs towards Echternach. You will soon see the signs to Irrel.

The Irrel waterfalls, which are rather small rapids were formed in ancient times by falling boulders, and, are quite famous. The rapids provide the scene for numerous canoe sporting events, especially when the water levels are high. The falls are just outside the town, between Irrel and Pruemzurlay.

To find the waterfalls, turn right in the center of Irrel toward Neuerburg until you see a large parking lot to your right.

Northwest of the falls lies the Ferschweiler plateau, located outside the town of Ferschweiler. Various archeological finds document a continuous settlement since the Stone Ages. Also impressive are the remains from the Celtic and Roman Ages, such as the famous Druid Stone, the Diana monument, the Fraubillen Cross and the Roman holy temple.

The plateau is worth visiting because of its' rich history and the beautiful cliff walks. There are a few nice restaurants in around the plateau. There is a visitor's center where people can learn about the history of the area or relax - enjoy a beverage or snack.

Also, extensive foot-paths lead to isolated graves and Celtic sacrificial altars. To get to the plateau go towards the town of Ernzen. Also, not far from here lies the Teufelsschlucht valley, an area which offers unlimited walking opportunity past interesting rock formations.

Hundreds of people come hear year-round to experience the beauty that this area offers. It is recommended to wear good walking shoes.

Back to Irrel, a special attraction is the Western Rampart Museum, located in the Katzenkopf or Cats' Head, Boulder Bunker.

Only a few kilometers southwest of Irrel lies the grand-duchy of Luxembourg and the medieval border town of Echternach, which has one of the oldest Christian abbeys in Europe and is the burial place of Saint Willibrord, who died in 729 A.D. During the 10th and 11th centuries, the abbey became a center for an outstanding school for artists and writers.

Today, a museum of book design in the abbey's basement displays evidence of the monks' outstanding work. The abbey consists of four wings surrounding a large court.

The basilica, an important religious monument, shelters a white marble coffin with the remains of Saint Willibrord in its crypt. This crypt was built during the Merovingian age.Interesting frescoes from the 11th century decorate its vault.

Echternach also makes a great stopping point - with cosy street cafes and coffee shops, located right in the center of town -- and after walking in the fresh air through the German-Luxembourg Nature-Preserve.