James' favorite valley

There are many ways into James' favorite valley, and this is one of them. The military grounds near Elsenborn were closed, contrary to their own announcements, so we had to travel via Bütgenbach. Instead of taking the rather monotonous Vennbahn, we criss-crossed through the fields and villages - of course adding to the elevation.

From the lake to Wirtzfeld - which could always make for a good rest at the Drosson Pub - and steep up to Elsenborn Camp. To reach the Olef source, we choose a new track, having had misread the map and not realized that the Jansbach Valley lies in the way. But never mind, the Olef was as wonderful as ever, even without the Daffodils. 

We crossed the Johnny Bridge, and choose the steep ascent to the Rocherather Road - you really want to do this only with an e-MTB - there are more gradual but obviously longer ascents from the valley.

On the home stretch, we built in a loop along the Matthias Cross - we do not go there often, but if you got some extra energy left it makes for a detour through beautiful beech forests.