Eternal ice cream in the Westerwald: A natural miracle brings cooling in summer
Eternal ice cream in the Westerwald: A natural miracle brings cooling in summer
The refreshing power of the eternal ice
In the middle of the summer heat, the fascinating natural phenomenon of the "eternal ice" near Dornburg-Frickhofen in the Westerwald has achieved its own meaning. Two tunnels at the foot of a scree field ensure a pleasant air flow that brings relief even at tropical temperatures.
a unique physical phenomenon
The “eternal ice” is a rare example of permafrost -like conditions in the middle of Germany. In the cavities that are located between the rock blocks of the steep scree, the warm outer air is sucked in like in a fireplace. The air cools down strongly, a process that is reinforced by evaporation. The result is a temperature difference of almost 25 degrees, even if the outside temperatures rise to the highest levels.
Like Joachim Habel, a retired teacher and local artist, explains, visitors can even feel shivering right in front of the stollen. Temperature measurements show that even in strong sunshine the air in front of the tunnels is only about five degrees Celsius. Habel regularly runs tours around the Dornburg mountain and studied the phenomenon up close.
The historical importance of the place
The “Eternal Eis” was discovered in 1839 when workers abandoned stones on the slope for road construction. Since then, it has aroused the interest of scientists who researched various possible uses for the cold-from cold water courts to cheese production. From 1869 a brewery was finally built, which used the cold for beer storage. This brewery burned down in 1887, but the Region remains a popular place for refreshment in the hot summer months.
timeliness and natural miracle of the year
In 2023, the “Eternal Eis” received special recognition and was elected “Natural Wonder of the Year” by the Heinz Sielmann Foundation. This not only illustrates the importance of the phenomenon for the region, but also the increasing awareness of such natural attractions. Visitors can reach the interesting place via the “Blasiusweig” hiking trail or the Nassau Wälller cycle round and enjoy a place of calm and refreshment.
The surroundings and other cool retreat
In addition to the “eternal ice”, there are a variety of other places in Hessen that create a cooling atmosphere on hot summer days. The "Teufelshöhle" in Steinau, where it stays between 7 and 11 degrees cold all year round, as well as the "Grube Christine" in Willingen with a constant 8 degrees, are popular destinations for heat -planned visitors. The “light white cave” in the Wiesbaden city forest also attracts numerous day trippers, especially families with children who enjoy the temperatures below 10 degrees.
Overall, it becomes clear that the “eternal ice” is not only a refreshing oasis in the summer heat, but also a fascinating example of the secrets of nature that are hidden around us and continue to attract people's interest.
- Nag