Venue
The SAP course and SASCamp will be held at Forschungszentrum Juelich (FZJ), which is located near Aachen. FZJ is one of Europe's leading interdisciplinary research institutions, renowned for its cutting-edge work in energy, environment, and information sciences. Established in 1956 as the Kernforschungsanlage Jülich (KFA), its initial focus was on nuclear energy research, reflecting post-war technological priorities. Over time, the center broadened its scope, rebranding in 1990 to Forschungszentrum Jülich to emphasize its diverse scientific pursuits beyond nuclear energy. Today, it hosts advanced facilities like supercomputers, climate modeling systems, and materials research labs, collaborating globally on challenges such as climate change, sustainable energy, and health. Its rich history and innovative spirit make it a cornerstone of European science and technology.
For the SAP short course, attendees are advised to book a hotel at the city of Aachen. We’re organizing a bus shuttle in the morning and evenings, departing and arriving in front of the InnSide Hotel (Sandkaulstraße 20, Aachen).
During the week of SASCAMP, the world equestrian festival CHIO will take place at Aachen and hotel rooms are rare and expensive. We recommend choosing a hotel at Juelich (e.g. the Stadthotel ) and will organize a transport to FZJ.
Travel
Reaching Aachen is easy! By plane, the closest airports are Maastricht Aachen Airport (30 km), Cologne Bonn Airport (85 km), and Düsseldorf International Airport (95 km) and Frankfurt Airport (250 km), all offering good connections via train. Aachen Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) is well-connected with high-speed services like the ICE, Thalys, and regional trains, linking the city to major hubs like Cologne, Duesseldorf, Brussels, and Paris.
- Deutsche Bahn (German railroad company), Apps: Apple Store, Google Play
- other Apps work, too: e.g. Omio
The city of Aachen
Aachen, nestled near Germany's borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, is a vibrant university city renowned for its youthful energy and rich cultural heritage. Home to approximately 60,000 students, primarily at RWTH Aachen University, it buzzes with an eclectic mix of trendy bars, diverse restaurants, and lively nightlife. Beyond its modern flair, Aachen boasts fascinating historical sites, including the iconic Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the resting place of Charlemagne, as well as the elegant Elisenbrunnen, a symbol of its Roman spa history. This blend of academia, culture, and conviviality makes Aachen a dynamic and inspiring place to live and visit.
Tri-border area
The Three-Country Point (Dreiländereck) near Aachen, Maastricht, and Liège is a unique region where Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium converge, offering a wealth of activities and experiences. Close to Aachen, you can visit the Dreiländereck monument, surrounded by picturesque forests and walking trails perfect for hiking and cycling. Nearby, the Labyrinth Drielandenpunt, a fun outdoor maze, is a hit with families. Just a short drive away, Maastricht enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, boutique shopping, and historic sites like the Basilica of Saint Servatius, while Liège offers vibrant markets, museums, and delicious Belgian cuisine. This crossroads of cultures combines stunning nature, historical landmarks, and culinary delights, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or weekend escape.