Monschau, a small historic town in Germany's Eifel region near the border with Belgium, looks as though it stepped out of a fairy tale. Built into the narrow valley of the Rur river, it is known for its well-preserved wooden houses, cobblestone streets, small bridges and historic facades that reflect in the water below.
The town is best explored on foot, with no fixed itinerary, letting visitors wander freely through the old quarter.
A castle above the rooftops
Rising above the rooftops is Monschau Castle, whose origins date back to the late 12th century. The fortification is closely tied to the town's history, since Monschau grew up around it and became an important economic centre thanks to its textile industry.
The town of the weavers
From the 17th century, and especially through the 18th century, Monschau flourished as a centre for producing woollen cloth. The prosperity of that era is reflected in the striking houses built by the town's wealthy weaving merchants.
Among them, the Rotes Haus, or Red House, stands out. It was built around 1760 for the businessman and textile manufacturer Johann Heinrich Scheibler. Today it is one of Monschau's most important sights, offering a glimpse into the life of a wealthy family of the period.
The town's distinctive architecture, built around Fachwerkhäuser, the traditional German half-timbered houses, is arguably its greatest draw. The exposed timber beams, colourful facades and rooftops that follow the slope of the valley create a scene that is especially photogenic.
Between history and nature
Monschau's appeal is not limited to its historic centre. The town sits within the green landscape of the Eifel, surrounded by forests, valleys and trails suited to hiking and exploration. The wider area is linked to Eifel National Park and the distinctive natural landscape of the Hohes Venn.
For travellers looking for a different side of Germany, away from the major cities and the most popular tourist attractions, Monschau offers a different and notably more atmospheric experience.
