If you're looking for a change of scenery without going too far afield, Monschau is the perfect little town for a day's getaway. Located just over the Belgian border, in the heart of the Eifel hills, it has all the makings of a picture-postcard village: half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and an ultra-peaceful atmosphere. In short, it's the perfect place to unwind.
As soon as I arrived, I was immediately charmed by Monschau's atmosphere. There are no noisy boulevards here, just charming little streets where it's good to get lost. The river Rur runs through the village, adding an even more picturesque touch to the scenery.
I began my visit by letting myself be carried along, camera in hand, in search of the most beautiful half-timbered facades. A word of advice: take the time to look up, the architectural details are insane! On the main square, I came across craft stores and cozy cafés, perfect for a break.
Rather than stop for a bite to eat, I decided to climb a little way up to the ruins overlooking the city. From up there, you have a breathtaking panorama of the whole village, with its slate roofs and the river meandering between the houses. I took the time to sit for a while, just to enjoy the peace and quiet and the scenery.
Back in town, I continued strolling through the streets and saw the Maison Rouge (Rotes Haus). It's a former 18th-century manor house that belonged to a cloth-making family (yes, Monschau was a textile Mecca).
To end the day on a high note, I decided to stray a little from the center and take a hiking trail that offers a great view of the town. With the light at the end of the day, it was just magical.
As I left, I realized that Monschau really is a little gem. Whether you're a fan of history, hiking or just looking for a peaceful spot, it's a destination that's clearly worth a visit.