Top 20 Lakes around Demerath

The lakes around Demerath are primarily unique volcanic lakes, known as maars, located in the surrounding Vulkaneifel region. These are craters formed by ancient volcanic eruptions that have since filled with water, offering a distinctive natural beauty and a glimpse into the region's geological past.

Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. For example, the Schalkenmehrener Maar has a very beautiful circular path. The Jungferweiher offers a barrier-free circular hiking trail of about 3 kilometers. Additionally, the Booser Doppelmaar features the 'Kratertour,' a 4.5 km circular trail with information boards, and the 'Traumpfad Booser Doppelmaartour,' an approximately 9 km route. You can find more hiking options in the Running Trails around Demerath guide.

Several lakes are family-friendly. The View of the Gemünden maar is a great option, offering swimming, boat rentals, and a sunbathing area. The Schalkenmehrener Maar also has a pleasant circular path suitable for families. The Jungferweiher features a barrier-free circular trail, making it accessible for all.

Yes, you can. The View of the Gemünden maar allows swimming and offers boat rentals. However, swimming is prohibited in the Ulmener Maar due to its status as a nature and water protection area, and also in the Weinfelder Maar to protect its unique flora and fauna.

Yes, there are. Near the Ulmener Maar, you can visit medieval castle ruins on its southern edge, offering historical context and panoramic views. The Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) is known for its historic chapel and cemetery, some parts dating back to the 14th century, which contribute to its unique atmosphere and legends.

The Ulmener Maar is considered the youngest of the Eifel maars, formed around 10,900 years ago from Germany's last volcanic eruption. It's recognized as a geological heritage site by the IUGS. Visitors can enjoy circular walks through its picturesque forest, and fishing is permitted. The nearby town of Ulmen offers amenities like cafés and restaurants.

The Jungferweiher, a re-flooded dry maar, is a renowned bird sanctuary located north of the Ulmener Maar. Its reedy shores are home to numerous endangered species, and it serves as a resting place for migratory birds. A bird observatory on the western shore provides excellent viewing opportunities.

Yes, the Jungferweiher offers a barrier-free circular hiking trail of approximately 3 kilometers, making it suitable for all fitness levels and accessible for wheelchairs.

The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn are particularly good for birdwatching at Jungferweiher, as migratory birds use it as a resting place. The autumn foliage around the maars also offers stunning scenery for hiking. Summer is ideal for activities like swimming and boating at lakes where it's permitted.

Yes, the region offers various cycling routes. You can explore options like the 'Old Post Square Fountain – Ulmener Maar Tunnel loop' or the 'Ulmener Maar – Ulmener Maar Tunnel loop' starting from Ulmen. More details can be found in the Cycling around Demerath guide.

For breathtaking panoramic views, visit the Boos Eiffel Tower, a 25-meter-high observation tower on the Schneeberg near the Booser Doppelmaar. It offers expansive vistas over the Eifel landscape, including extinct volcanic domes. Additionally, the medieval castle ruins near the Ulmener Maar provide great views over the maar itself.

Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, at the Weinfelder Maar, guests can park along the L64 either in the parking lot at the maar or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar.

The maars are rich in wildlife. The Jungferweiher is a significant bird sanctuary, hosting numerous endangered species and migratory birds. The unique flora and fauna of the Weinfelder Maar are protected, and donkeys and goats have been introduced there to regulate vegetation. You might also spot various fish species in lakes where fishing is permitted.

The Weinfelder Maar, or Totenmaar, was formed by volcanic activity around 10,500 years ago. It's known for its almost melancholic atmosphere and legends, including one about a sunken castle. Its second name, Totenmaar (Dead Maar), comes from the historic cemetery and chapel on its north bank, which was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld, abandoned due to the plague in the 16th century.