Backed by a steep rock formation known as the Munterley, Gerolstein is a historic spa town in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate. Its therapeutic waters were revered by the Celts and the Romans before being bottled and sold from the early 18th century. Much of Gerolstein was destroyed during World War II raids due to the town’s importance as a railway junction.
Things to do in Gerolstein
If you’re arriving by train, take the time to admire the Gothic Revival architecture of the Gerolstein railway station, which managed to survive World War II and has been expanded since. It’s a short stroll from the Evangelical Church of the Redeemer, an early 20th-century house of worship designed by Franz Schwechten. The interior is lavishly decorated with gilded mosaics and stained glass windows.
Overlooking the town centre are the remains of Burg Gerolstein, which was established in the 14th century by Gerhard VI of Blankenburg. While much of the complex was destroyed in 1691, sections of its two-metre-thick shield wall are preserved today, together with the remnants of two 15th-century chapels.
For elevated views across Gerolstein, climb to the top of the Munterley, which was formed millions of years ago as a limestone reef. Continue walking through the crater-studded meadow that leads to the Buchenlochhöhle, a karst cave with a 30-metre-long entrance. The remains of mammoths, cave bears and woolly rhinoceros have been discovered here and the cave was used as a hideout for local citizens during World War II.
Getting around Gerolstein
Gerolstein is around two hours’ drive from Frankfurt and 1.5 hours from Cologne Bonn Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect to the Gerolstein railway station and buses travel throughout the area, connecting most of its attractions.