Copper Route

Following in the footsteps of the brassmakers

Along the fascinating ‘Copper Route’, you’ll discover the history of Stolberg’s brass-making industry. The name of the tour comes from the town’s long history of producing brass – also known as ‘yellow copper’. Over around 16 kilometres, hikers can enjoy vast landscapes featuring rare calamine plants in the Schlangenberg nature reserve and the historic ‘Copper City’ of Stolberg with its picturesque old town, castle and magnificent brass works.

The route begins at ‘Alte Markt’ in Stolberg’s historic old town. It then heads up Hammerberg and past the Binsfeldhammer quarry to Mausbach and Vicht. Take in the fresh woodland air before you reach the Schlangenberg nature reserve. The landscape is shaped by wide open grasslands featuring rare plants such as calamine flowers, diverse woodlands and vast views of the surrounding Voreifel. The months from May to August are a great time of year to marvel at the beautiful yellow blooms of the calamine flowers. The route continues through the Münsterwald woodland to Zweifall, Eifel’s northern gateway, and Venwegen. A little further on, at ‘Kitzenhaus’, Stolberg joins the popular Eifelsteig, which leads from Aachen to the Roman city of Trier. The Copper Route ends here. As this is not a circular trail, in Venwegen, you can take the 61 bus towards Breinig-Nachtigällchen-Stolberg-Altstadt to go back to where you started.

Once back in Stolberg, you can explore the old town and its impressive brassworks, formerly home to ingenious craftspeople. You can also visit mighty 12th-century Stolberg Castle on a guided tour. Or round off the day by dining on hearty home-cooked food and rustic medieval dishes at the castle. At weekends, guests can also enjoy delicious cakes from the castle’s own bakery. The castle also hosts banquets all year round – a magnificent experience accompanied by medieval music and fire shows.