Drafted on February 12, 2015

Experience a hiking trail with impressive views and rare heat-loving plants and animals, rugged cliffs, vineyard terraces and gentle plateau of the Moselle trough. The rare Apollo butterfly, a species of butterfly native to this area, has given the trail its name.

The A48 motorway (Koblenz-Trier) is the best connection to Valwig. Please use the Kaisersesch exit and drive towards Cochem. From there, the neighbouring village of Valwig is signposted.

Coming from the north, take the A3 or A61 towards Koblenz, then continue on the A48 towards Trier.

Guests from the Rhine-Main area also travel via the A3 (towards Cologne).

Coming from the Saarbrücken direction, Valwig can be reached via the A1 towards Trier and then on the A48 towards Koblenz.

Those who want to take in the beautiful landscape should choose the approach along the Moselle.

In several stages, the Apollo Trail leads from the banks of the Moselle first through the village of Valwig, then up the steep Kreuzweg to the Schönen Aussicht and on to the Valwigerberg district. From here, the trail descends through the Niederwald forest into the vineyards and finally back to Valwig. You can walk this circular route at your leisure in about 3 hours. In an additional hour, you can reach the Brauselay nature reserve and Cochem via the vineyard path.

After and during rain or snowfall or ice, take extra care. Walk carefully, wear good shoes and avoid overconfidence and risky excursions.

Be sure to take enough provisions with you (especially mineral water). However, pay attention to the weight of your backpack. Take breaks, carry a mobile phone (for emergencies) and avoid hiking when there is a risk of thunderstorms.

Sturdy shoes and weatherproof clothing are required for the hike.

From May to August, the Apollo butterfly is on the move in the Moselle region. The Apollo butterfly is a highly endangered and strictly protected butterfly in Europe. The cultural trail in Valwig was named after this butterfly.