The imposing castle dominates the image of Blankenheim. Finds indicate that a Roman fort previously stood here. Gerhard I built the castle in 1115 above the source of the Ahr. Today the castle complex serves as a youth hostel and can be visited on request. Blankenheim Castle is located directly on the hiking trails Burgen-Route and Eifelsteig stage 6.
The Helenenquelle on the Kyll Cycle Path near Gerolstein Town Hall is a popular resting place for cyclists and hikers. The fresh mineral water comes from a depth of approx. 90 m and can be drunk free of charge from April-October from the brass tap. Here it is worth taking a break and the park is ideal for a small picnic in nature.
The historic Birgel watermill is a unique mill experience centre and the largest in Europe. The four mills are still in operation today: mustard mill, grain mill, oil mill and sawmill.