The Erft floodplain

After breakfast on our forest terrace, many guests set off in the direction of the Erftaue. Some watch rare birds, others let themselves be carried away by the landscape while cycling or hiking through the idyllic countryside. Families and children also get their money's worth in the Erftaue: discovery trails, nature experience stations or simply playing by the water make the excursion a little adventure.

Many educational and environmental initiatives in the region use the floodplain as an open-air learning space - close to nature, lively and tangible.

If you like photography, you will love the light moods of the Erft floodplain. In the morning, there is often a soft mist over the meadows, while in the evening the setting sun is reflected in the calm waters. This special atmosphere makes the Erftaue one of the most atmospheric recreational areas in the region.

The Erft floodplain is not only a place to relax, but also a piece of living history. Along its course, old mills, former Roman roads and historic estates bear witness to the centuries-long importance of this river landscape.

The river itself was once an important transportation route and played a key role in shaping the life of the region. Today, the renaturation of the Erft and its floodplain is a successful example of how nature conservation and flood protection can go hand in hand.

What makes the Erft floodplain so special is its natural diversity. The extensive floodplain areas alternate between wet meadows, reed zones, small ponds and groups of trees.

If you walk or cycle here, you might be lucky enough to spot lapwings, gray herons or even the rare kingfisher. Beavers have also found a home in the region again - a sign of how close to nature the area has become.

The paths through the Erft floodplain are excellently developed and lead past small bridges, viewpoints and benches. For hikers, there are shorter circular routes as well as links to supra-regional routes, such as the Erft cycle path or the connection to Sophienhöhe and on towards the Eifel.

Those who are mindful when out and about will notice: The Erftaue is a place where you can slow down - an ideal retreat for anyone seeking mindfulness in nature .

The Erft floodplain is more than just a river course. It is a valuable natural and cultural asset, a place of tranquillity and discovery, a link between past and present. Whether on a short break from everyday life or an extended day trip - the Erftaue invites you to rediscover nature.

At the Landhotel Sophienhöhe you will experience the Erftaue as part of your stay. Many of our rooms offer views of wide fields and gardens that merge directly into the natural surroundings. Whether alone, as a couple or with the whole family: the Erftaue is one of the places where our guests ground themselves - pristine, calming and beautiful.