Top 13 Gorges around Daun

The Daun region, part of the Vulkaneifel, is renowned for its unique volcanic Maare – deep crater lakes like the Pulvermaar, Weinfelder Maar, and Schalkenmehrener Maar. These are essentially bowl-shaped depressions formed by ancient volcanic explosions. Beyond the maars, you can also find river-carved gorges such as the Lieser Valley and the mystical Wolfsschlucht (Vulkaneifel), which features basalt columns and moss-covered rocks.

Yes, the Pulvermaar is a popular spot for swimming, offering a natural outdoor pool on its eastern shore. You can also rent rowing and pedal boats there. The Schalkenmehrener Maar also permits swimming and boating, making it a favorite for families during summer. However, swimming is prohibited in the Weinfelder Maar, as it is part of a nature reserve.

The Schalkenmehrener Maar is particularly family-friendly, allowing swimming and boating, with restaurants and cafes nearby in the village of Schalkenmehren. The Bolsdorfer Valley also offers excellent cycling and hiking trails, including a barefoot path, making it suitable for families. The Daun Game and Adventure Park features a 'monkey gorge' where Barbary macaques roam freely, offering a unique animal encounter for children.

Many trails in the Vulkaneifel region are dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the maars and gorges with your canine companion. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to check specific trail regulations before you go. The natural paths around the maars and through gorges like the Lieser Valley are generally welcoming to dogs.

The Lieserpfad Hiking Trail is one of the most beautiful, meandering through fantastic nature and including sections along the maars near Daun and Schalkenmehren. Another option is the HeimatSpur Kleiner Dauner, a moderate 8.5 km hike, or the more challenging HeimatSpur Großer Dauner, which is nearly 30 km. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Daun guide.

The Vulkaneifel region is beautiful year-round, but late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most pleasant weather for hiking and outdoor activities. During these months, the maars are ideal for swimming, and the trails through the gorges are less likely to be slippery due to rain or ice. Autumn also brings vibrant fall foliage, adding to the scenic beauty.

For breathtaking panoramic views, visit the Dronke tower on the Mäuseberg, which offers an excellent vantage point over the Daun Maars. Another notable spot is the View of Gerolstein from the Munterley, which provides a fantastic vista over Gerolstein and the Kylltal, standing on a Devonian reef formed 380 million years ago.

When exploring gorges like the Wolfsschlucht (Vulkaneifel), it's crucial to wear sturdy, well-profiled shoes, especially if it has rained, as paths can become very slippery and rocky. Some sections may require careful footing. Always be mindful of your surroundings and check local weather conditions before heading out.

Beyond hiking, the region offers excellent opportunities for cycling and gravel biking. You can find numerous routes, such as the 'View of the Schalkenmehrener Maar – Weinfelder Maar loop from Daun' for gravel biking, or various cycling routes like the 'Weinfelder Maar – View of the Schalkenmehrener Maar loop from Daun'. Explore more options in the Gravel biking around Daun and Cycling around Daun guides.

The village of Schalkenmehren, located on the southern shore of the Schalkenmehrener Maar, offers several restaurants and cafes. Along popular hiking routes like the Lieserpfad Hiking Trail, you can also find rest stops and establishments typical of the region, particularly in towns like Daun, Manderscheid, and Wittlich.

The Weinfelder Maar, also known as Totenmaar (Dead Maar), is steeped in history and legends. It is known for its melancholic atmosphere and features a small chapel dedicated to St. Martin on its northern bank. This chapel was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld, which was abandoned in the 16th century due to the Plague, adding to its historic charm and mysterious allure.

Yes, there are easier options available. The circular path around the Pulvermaar is a pleasant walk through surrounding woods. Similarly, a nearly two-kilometer path encircles the Weinfelder Maar, offering beautiful scenic walks that are generally less strenuous. The Bolsdorfer Valley also provides accessible recreational paths.