Eichberg and Thönbach Loop - Großhau

Starting near Kreis Düren, Germany, the Eichberg and Thönbach Loop - Großhau is a delightful 7 km (approximately 4.3 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a rewarding experience for hikers.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to Großhau, Kreis Düren, Germany. For those using public transport, take a train to Düren Station and then a bus to Großhau. The trailhead is conveniently located near the village, making it easily accessible.

### Trail Overview The trail begins near the village of Großhau, a quaint settlement that offers a glimpse into the rural life of the region. As you start your hike, you'll be greeted by a mix of deciduous and coniferous forests, providing ample shade and a serene atmosphere. The initial part of the trail is relatively flat, making it a good warm-up for the more undulating sections ahead.

### Eichberg Section About 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you'll reach the Eichberg area. This section involves a gentle ascent, gaining approximately 50 meters (164 feet) in elevation. The Eichberg is known for its lush greenery and diverse flora. Keep an eye out for wildflowers in the spring and summer months, as well as various bird species that inhabit the area.

### Thönbach Valley Continuing on, you'll descend into the Thönbach Valley around the 4 km (2.5 miles) mark. This part of the trail is particularly scenic, with the Thönbach stream meandering through the valley. The sound of flowing water adds a calming backdrop to your hike. The valley is also home to several small mammals and a variety of insects, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

### Historical Significance The region around Großhau has a rich history, particularly from World War II. The area was part of the Hürtgen Forest, a significant battleground during the war. As you hike, you'll come across several informational plaques and possibly remnants of wartime structures. These serve as poignant reminders of the past and add a layer of historical depth to your hike.

### Navigation and Safety Given the moderate difficulty of the trail, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to ensure you stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be very helpful, especially in the more densely wooded sections.

### Final Stretch The last 2 km (1.2 miles) of the trail loop back towards Großhau. This section is relatively easy, with a gentle descent that allows you to cool down and reflect on the hike. As you approach the village, you'll pass through open fields and meadows, offering a different but equally beautiful landscape compared to the forested areas.

### Wildlife and Flora Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. The flora is equally diverse, with oak, beech, and pine trees dominating the landscape. Seasonal changes bring different colors and scents, making each hike a unique experience.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and moderate physical challenge, making it a must-visit for any hiking enthusiast.