The best walks and hikes around Schalkenmehrener Maar
4.5
(16492)
56,682
hikers
850
hikes
Hiking trails around Schalkenmehrener Maar traverse a unique volcanic landscape in the Eifel region of Germany. The area is characterized by the Maar itself, a water-filled volcanic crater, and an adjacent dry maar that has developed into a raised bog. Surrounding the maars are gentle, often forested hills, showcasing the region's geological past. This diverse terrain offers a blend of clear waters, volcanic features, and varied vegetation, providing a range of hiking experiences.
Best hiking trails around Schalkenmehrener Maar
- The…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
4.7
(715)
2,433
hikers
11.4km
03:18
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(35)
157
hikers
26.2km
07:20
510m
510m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.7
(184)
914
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(39)
149
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(26)
131
hikers
7.68km
02:10
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
„Birds are singing, flowers are blooming, green is again the forest and the field. Oh, let us go and wander from one place to another through the wide, green world!“ (Hoffmann von Fallersleben)
4
0
Information on the Mürmes nature reserve can be found at NABU: https://www.nabu-daun.de/wir-sichern-fl%C3%A4chen/nsg-m%C3%BCrmes/ or at: https://ellscheid-vulkaneifel.de/408/tourismus/muermes
1
0
at this point now well hidden behind trees
1
0
The Daun Maars - 10,000-Year-Old Volcanic Lakes The Daun Maars were formed around 10,000 years ago from volcanic steam explosions. Hot lava rises from the Earth's interior and encounters water, which suddenly evaporates. This blasts away entire mountain peaks. What remains is a deep crater that fills with water over the years and a wall of boulders surrounding the lake. The Daun Maars include the Gemünden Maar, the Weinfelder Maar, and the Schalkenmehrener Doppelmaar. One crater of the Schalkenmehrener Maar has silted up over the millennia. The area is a nature reserve and a refuge for waterfowl and rare dragonfly species. Text / Source: deutschland-outdoor.der https://deutschland-outdoor.de/eifel/dauner-maare
13
0
Weinfelder Maar The Weinfelder Maar, formed by volcanic activity around 20,000 to 30,000 years ago, is the highest of the three Dauner Maars at 487 meters above sea level. The lake is 51 meters deep and has a diameter of 396 to 429 meters. An almost melancholic atmosphere surrounds the maar. Many legends surround the quiet Eifel eye. A castle is said to have once stood on the site of the crater, where a count lived with his wife and only child. After returning home from a hunt, the castle had sunk as punishment for the woman's nastiness, and he found only a lake where a cradle miraculously floated his child safely to the shore. If you look at the dark surface of the water long enough, it is said that you can make out the outline of the castle. The German landscape painter Fritz von Wille was so fascinated by the Weinfelder Maar that he repeatedly immortalized it in his paintings. Among his favorite motifs was the small chapel on the north bank, dedicated to Saint Martin. It was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld, which was struck by the plague in the 16th century. Anyone who makes the bells inside ring by pulling the ropes can make a wish. To this day, the associated cemetery is maintained and used by the local community of Schalkenmehren. This is where its second name, Totenmaar, comes from. Donkeys and goats have been introduced to the Weinfelder Maar to regulate vegetation. The maar's unique flora and fauna are protected. Swimming and other water sports are prohibited in the Weinfelder Maar, but a nearly two-kilometer-long path makes it a wonderful place to explore on foot. Parking: Visitors can park along the L64 either in the parking lot at the Weinfelder Maar or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar. Text / Source: GesundLand Vulkaneifel GmbH, Leopoldstr. 9 A, 54550 Daun https://www.eifel.info/a-weinfelder-maar
12
0
The Sangweiher is an old maar lake and, thanks to extensive restoration measures, has become a lovely stop on your hike. This nature and bird sanctuary offers a habitat for flora and fauna, where you are welcome to be a guest.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Schalkenmehrener Maar?
There are over 800 hiking routes around Schalkenmehrener Maar, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a wide selection, including over 400 easy trails, more than 350 moderate options, and around 70 challenging routes for experienced hikers.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks around Schalkenmehrener Maar?
Yes, the area offers several easy, family-friendly options. A manageable, asphalted circular route of about 3 km encircles the maar, making it accessible for families with children and individuals with limited mobility. For a slightly longer easy option, consider the View of Schalkenmehren – Weinfelder Maar viewpoint loop from Schalkenmehren, which is about 6.7 km long.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Schalkenmehrener Maar?
Most trails around Schalkenmehrener Maar are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the volcanic landscape with your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially around wildlife habitats and other hikers. Please ensure you clean up after your pet.
Are there circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many routes around Schalkenmehrener Maar are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. A popular moderate circular trail is the Schalkenmehrener Maar – Gemündener Maar loop from Schalkenmehren, which connects two significant maars over 8.1 km.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the hikes?
The terrain around Schalkenmehrener Maar is diverse, reflecting its volcanic origins. You'll encounter gentle, often forested hills, clear waters, and unique bog landscapes. Paths range from asphalted circular routes directly around the maar to more rugged trails through volcanic terrain and woodlands. The area is known for its distinct geological features, including the 'double maar' itself.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints along the trails?
Hikers can enjoy several interesting landmarks and viewpoints. The Konrad Scholzen Chainsaw Wood Sculptures are located directly on the shore, adding an artistic touch. For panoramic views, the Dronketurm on the Mäuseberg offers expansive vistas over Schalkenmehrener Maar, Gemündener Maar, and the wider Volcanic Eifel landscape. You can reach it via the Schalkenmehrener Maar – Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg loop from Schalkenmehren.
Where can I find parking for hiking around Schalkenmehrener Maar?
Parking is generally available in and around the village of Schalkenmehren, which serves as a common starting point for many trails. Specific parking areas are often signposted near popular trailheads and attractions. It's advisable to check local signage for any parking fees or restrictions.
Are there cafes or restaurants near the hiking trails?
Yes, the village of Schalkenmehren, located directly by the maar, offers amenities such as cafes and restaurants. You can find places like Café Maarblick, perfect for a break before or after your hike. The Village Shop Maaritimes also provides local provisions.
What is the best time of year to hike in Schalkenmehrener Maar?
The Schalkenmehrener Maar region is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly popular. In spring, the diverse flora, including yellow iris and various clover species, comes alive. Autumn offers stunning colors in the forested areas. Summer is ideal for combining hiking with swimming in the maar's natural outdoor pool, while winter can provide serene, snow-dusted landscapes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Schalkenmehrener Maar?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 15,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the serene beauty of the maar, and the well-maintained paths that offer a blend of easy strolls and more challenging treks. The diverse scenery, from the water-filled crater to the raised bog and forested hills, is frequently highlighted.
Are there any longer or more challenging trails for experienced hikers?
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Volcano Trail is a notable option. This difficult route spans 26.2 km and leads through diverse volcanic terrain, typically taking over 7 hours to complete. It offers significant elevation changes and a deeper immersion into the region's geological features.
Most popular routes around Schalkenmehrener Maar
Most popular attractions around Schalkenmehrener Maar
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
