Nürburgring

The Nordschleife – the Green Hell

The Nürburgring Nordschleife is considered one of the most demanding racing circuits in the world. Over 20.8 kilometres it winds through the hilly Eifel landscape, conquers more than 300 metres of elevation change and counts over 70 corners. Niki Lauda once called it the "Green Hell" – and this nickname has stuck to this day.

Built between 1925 and 1927, the Nordschleife was a regular part of the Formula 1 World Championship until 1976. Today it remains unique worldwide as a technical reference circuit. Automobile manufacturers from all over the world test their new models here under real conditions – which is why you regularly see camouflaged prototypes on the track.

Tourist Laps on the Nordschleife

On days without racing, the Nordschleife is open to the public – so-called "tourist laps" allow anyone with a road-legal vehicle to drive the legendary track themselves. The entry ticket costs between 30 and 35 euros per lap depending on the season and time of day, purchased directly at the entrance.

Those who come by motorcycle experience the Nordschleife in a completely different way: the tight sequences of corners, the interplay of shade and sunlight, the tarmac winding through forests and meadows – an experience you won't forget. Be sure to check the track opening times, which vary greatly depending on the season and racing calendar. Current information is available on the official website:

nuerburgring.de

ring°werk – the Experience World

Even if you don't want to do a lap on the track, there's plenty to experience at the Nürburgring. The ring°werk is the experience world directly at the main complex and caters to visitors of all ages. Here you'll find an interactive exhibition on the history of the Nürburgring, motorsport exhibits, historic racing cars and modern driving simulator stations where you can virtually conquer the Nordschleife yourself.

The exhibition is particularly suitable for children and young people who want to experience motorsport up close without going on the track. Also a worthwhile destination in bad weather.

Racing Events at the Nürburgring

Those who want to experience a live race during their holiday in the Vulkan Eifel should keep an eye on the Nürburgring's racing calendar. The annual highlight is undoubtedly the 24-Hour Race Nürburgring, which traditionally takes place in May or June and attracts tens of thousands of fans from all over the world. The venue transforms into a huge motorsport camping festival.

In addition, rounds of the ADAC Motorsport series, DTM races, motorcycle events and regularity trials take place regularly. On event weekends the entire region is livelier than usual – hotels and holiday apartments in the Eifel are then in particularly high demand. Booking early is worthwhile.

Tips for Your Visit

Weekdays are generally much quieter than weekends – both on the track during tourist laps and in the experience world area. Those who arrive early avoid queues at the entrance and experience the track in a calmer environment.

The Nürburgring has several dining options, from simple snack stands to upmarket restaurants with track views. Those looking for something more rustic will find cosy restaurants with regional Eifel cuisine in Adenau, the nearest town.

Please note: certain vehicle types are excluded from tourist laps (e.g. convertibles with open roofs, vehicles above a certain weight). Please check the current rules on the official Nürburgring website.

Getting Here from Kirchweiler

From our holiday apartment in Kirchweiler, head towards Daun, then take the B257 through the Hocheifel. Via Kelberg and Adenau you reach the Nürburgring after about 55 kilometres and around 50 minutes' drive. The route passes through beautiful Eifel landscape – a pleasure for motorcyclists in any case. Those who prefer the motorway can also approach via Mayen/Koblenz (A48) and switch back to the country road at Adenau.