The best hikes from bus stations around Stausee Obermaubach

(The sentences preceding the quote refer to gravestones and their inscriptions, Paul Spiegel – then chairman of the Central Council of Jews in Germany – then continues:) “What one cannot learn from the stones of Bet Hachaim, however, but should bring with them when one… approaches them, is respect for the peace and honor of the dead who lie there. (…) You [meaning us as visitors] do not come with excavators, but with questions and interest. Therefore, I want to invite you to visit the Jewish cemeteries… once and let them tell you something. I also have a hidden motive: It cannot hurt in these times if the neighbors in the area occasionally look at the resting places of our people, which unfortunately are repeatedly subjected to violence and disgrace by malicious people.” (Source: Paul Spiegel in “Bet Hachijim. House of Life. The Jewish cemeteries…“)

Nice cycle path along the Rur

A very communicative bank.

Along the banks of the Eifel reservoirs, such as the Obermaubach Reservoir and the Rursee, you'll frequently find rest stops and picnic areas, but a special feature is the round bench by the water. These benches are often positioned so that you can look all around and enjoy a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding valleys. Unlike conventional, straight benches, these round seats invite conviviality, as several people can sit comfortably and simultaneously enjoy the view in every direction. A round bench by a reservoir not only serves as a resting place for hikers, cyclists, or fishermen but also forms a natural vantage point. At the Obermaubach Reservoir, for example, such benches are strategically placed along hiking trails and viewpoints overlooking the water and the wooded slopes. From such a spot, you can watch the gently lapping water of the reservoir, observe the surrounding forests and hills, and even recognize the outline of the village of Obermaubach or the dam itself in the distance. These benches are also designed to promote peace and contemplation. The round shape allows you to turn your face towards the sun or the water without having to leave the bench. Moreover, they are often made of sustainable wood or combined with concrete, making them weatherproof and able to withstand years of use, even in the damp environment of a reservoir. For hikers or cyclists following the Rurtalradweg or the trails around the reservoir, the round bench offers an ideal spot to rest, take photos, or simply enjoy the surroundings. The view over the water, the surrounding forests, and the changing light in the morning or evening make this simple arrangement a small but memorable part of the natural experience.

Coming from Obermaubach, after crossing the new arched bridge over the Rur River, one has a view of the Eugenienstein and the Rur towards Nideggen. The Eugenienstein rises to a height of 334 meters above sea level. The rock formation is composed of red sandstone.

The cemetery was the burial site of the Jewish community of Untermaubach, which emerged from the 18th century onward. The cemetery's grounds cover an area of 3,190 square meters, of which 631 square meters are fenced. The cemetery's origins are unknown. Today, eight graves are still visible, and three standing and one lying gravestone are present. Source: Wikipedia

Bridge reopened As of August 24, 2025

The bridge is still being rebuilt, but a temporary bridge has been built next to it. It's not pretty, but it's okay. The alternative is definitely garbage and very dangerous.