Pannesterz to Theissbaum

With an E-Bike, this is a short afternoon jaunt around Kalterherberg - nothing spectacular but a good exercise when you have 2 hours or less to spend. The route is mostly on good forest roads - some asphalt and some gravel, and on very quiet village roads.

The trail meanders to take in some of the little explored spots and good views across the moor of the Hohe Venn (Hautes Fagnes). If you are pressed with time, there are many possibilities for shortcuts or - if you so desire - extensions. The trail has some short steep ascents, easy for any e-bike but possibly demotivating for those with a regular bike.

From the Hotel Hirsch - or any other place in Kalterherberg - descend to the defunct train station of Kalterherberg, where you cross the RAVeL. A steep ascent on a quiet road leads to the Ruitzhof - a German enclave on Belgium territory. Enter the forest and continue leisurely to the Pannesterz - a major hill in this area. You don't ride up to the summit and to the views on the other side (there will be similar views along our trail), but just pass below the high-point, going downhill in southerly direction.

You now travel along the moor of the Hohe Venn, with views going far towards the highest point of Belgium, the Signal de Botrange.

A short ascent takes you to point BE 86 - part of the Belgium point system developed for cyclists, who can thus navigate from point-to-point. From here, we descend to the RAVeL, through lovely forest. Turn left and follow the RAVeL to its next intersection. Leave the RAVeL, cross a road, and enter the forest again. This part of the Belgium State Forest is seldom visited, as access from the other side is restricted by the Elsenborn military camp.

Going steep uphill, you are unlikely to meet other visitors. Soon the trail levels out. From here it is a leisurely ride back to the Krummer Ast and Kalterherberg. Before you return to your accommodation, visit the Theissbaum, a landmark in Kalterherberg. The Theissbaum is a very old oak-tree that has been designated a natural monument. It is well maintained and worth a short rest, if you have time. The origin of its significance is not entirely clear, and shrouded in history.

Continue through Kalterherberg's 'industrial zone' with its two businesses, and explore some more of the eastern outskirts of Kalterherberg before returning to the starting point.