❄️ Winter Escape: Monschau Rur Valley Hike & Lunch 🏰

Join us for a magical day trip to the "Pearl of the Eifel"! We will take the train to Eupen and a scenic bus ride into the German hills for a crisp winter hike, followed by a warming lunch in the historic town center.

🌨️ Why We Are Going (The Winter Magic)
Monschau is often called a "real-life snow globe."

Under a blanket of snow, the town transforms:

• The "Snow Globe" Effect: The slate roofs of the 300-year-old half-timbered houses look stunning dusted in white.
• River Views: The Rur River winds through the town, and in winter, the banks and old water wheels create a perfect frosty backdrop.
• Panoramic Silence: We will hike up to viewpoints where you can see the entire snowy valley and the Eifel hills stretching out in winter silence.

📍 Meeting Point: Brussels Central Station (Main Hall, near the departure board)

⏰ Meeting Time: 07:45 AM (Departure is 08:01 sharp!)

🥾 The Hike: Monschau Rur Valley Loop 35
We will tackle Loop 35, a scenic route mixing nature and history.

• Distance: 8.0 km
• Elevation Gain: ~295 m
• Duration: ~3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Terrain: Winter forest trails, cobblestones, and potential snow/mud.

🚆 The Schedule (Confirmed)
We are following a strict schedule to maximize daylight.

🏁 DEPARTURE:

• 07:45: Meet at Brussels Central.
• 08:01: Take IC Train (Direction Eupen).
• 09:42: Arrive at Eupen.
• Transfer (16 min)
• 09:58: Take Bus 385 (Direction Monschau/Kalterherberg) from Eupen Bahnhof.
• 10:27: Arrive at Monschau Schmiede.
• 10:30 - 13:30: HIKE (Approx. 3 hours)

🍽️ LUNCH:

• 13:30: Post-hike lunch in Monschau. We will find a cozy spot for Schnitzel, Monschau mustard soup, or hot cocoa.

🔙 RETURN:

• 15:32: Take Bus 385 from Monschau Schmiede.
• 15:58: Arrive at Eupen Bahnhof.
• Transfer (19 min)
• 16:17: Take IC Train (Direction Ostende) from Eupen.
• 17:55: Arrive back at Brussels Central.

💶 Costs & Tickets

• Organising Fee: €5 per person (paid via Payment Link).
• Members: Voyager and Ambassador members are exempt from this fee.
• Not a member yet? Check out our membership options here: https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership
• Transport: Everyone is responsible for purchasing their own train and bus tickets.
• Tip: Buy a return train ticket to Eupen. The bus ticket (Eupen <-> Monschau) can be bought on the bus or via the TEC app.
  🎒 Equipment & Safety (Important!)
  Winter hiking requires specific preparation.
• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are mandatory.
• Anti-Slip Gear: The path can be icy or slippery. We highly recommend bringing anti-slip spikes (crampons) for your shoes. You can find affordable ones at Decathlon.
• Clothing: Dress in warm layers (thermal base, fleece, waterproof shell). Don't forget a hat and gloves.

⚠️ Disclaimer & Liability
By signing up for this event, you understand and agree to the following:

• Nature of Activity: Hiking involves inherent risks, including but not limited to slips, falls, and weather-related injuries. Winter conditions (ice, snow, mud) increase these risks.
• Personal Responsibility: You are responsible for your own safety, equipment, and physical preparedness. The organizers are volunteers, not professional guides.
• Liability: The organizers and the Meetup group accept no liability for any accidents, injuries, loss, or damage to personal property that may occur during the event. You participate entirely at your own risk.
• Insurance: It is your responsibility to ensure you have adequate personal health and accident insurance valid in Germany.

Ready for a winter adventure? RSVP now!

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