Best lakes around Wallscheid are found in the Vulkaneifel region of Germany, characterized by a unique volcanic landscape. This area features several "Maare," which are volcanic lakes offering natural beauty and recreational opportunities. These maars are easily accessible from Wallscheid and provide appealing features for visitors. The region's distinctive geological formations make it a notable destination for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Showing Translation
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Wallscheid.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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 meets 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 Schalkenmehren 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 Daun 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 tranquil 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 ravaged by the plague in the 16th century. Anyone who rings the bells inside 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 also 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: Guests 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
13
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
Very nice panoramic view
7
0
From the Mäuseberg high above the maars you have a fantastic view in clear weather
8
0
A very worthwhile detour, especially as the donkeys and goats are so friendly.
7
0
I walked by here again today and enjoyed the view. Walking around the Maar has a mystical character for me too. Today the donkeys and goats were present. It was a treat.
10
1
The Vulkaneifel region, where Wallscheid is located, is known for its unique volcanic lakes called Maare. Among the most popular are the three Daun Maare: Schalkenmehrener Maar, the largest; Gemündener Maar, which offers swimming and boat rentals; and Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar), known for its serene natural setting and historical chapel.
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. The Gemündener Maar features a natural outdoor pool and sunbathing lawn, perfect for children. The Pulvermaar, while not explicitly in the guide data, is also known for its natural lido with facilities for non-swimmers and young children, making it a great family destination.
The lakes around Wallscheid offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy swimming and boat rentals at Gemündener Maar, or simply relax by the water. Hiking is very popular, with circular paths around many maars, including Schalkenmehrener Maar and Weinfelder Maar. For more extensive hiking options, explore routes like the 'Forest path near Wallscheid – Sammetbach Hut loop' or 'Lava Flow in the Alftal Valley – Strohner Switzerland loop' which can be found in the Hiking around Wallscheid guide. Mountain biking is also an option, with trails such as 'Meerfelder Maar – View of Niederburg Castle loop' available in the MTB Trails around Wallscheid guide.
Yes, numerous hiking trails encircle the Maare. For instance, a beautiful circular path exists around Schalkenmehrener Maar. The Gemündener Maar is part of the 11-kilometer HeimatSpur MaareGlück hiking trail. While specific difficulty ratings for individual maar circular paths aren't always provided, many are considered easy to moderate. For more challenging routes, you can find options like the 'Lava Flow in the Alftal Valley – Strohner Switzerland loop' (difficult) in the Hiking around Wallscheid guide.
No, swimming is not permitted in all the lakes. While Gemündener Maar offers a natural outdoor pool for swimming, and bathing is allowed in designated areas at Schalkenmehrener Maar, the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) is a nature reserve where swimming and other water sports are prohibited to protect its unique flora and fauna.
The Eifel Maare are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the vibrant colors of nature. Summer is ideal for swimming and water activities at lakes like Gemündener Maar. Even winter hiking around the Maare can be a unique experience, offering a tranquil and mystical atmosphere.
Yes, the volcanic landscape provides many excellent viewpoints. You can find a dedicated View of Totenmaar from the panoramic bench, offering stunning vistas of the Weinfelder Maar. Another popular spot is the Weinfelder Maar viewpoint. The region's unique geological formations ensure picturesque views around almost every bend.
Many trails around the Eifel Maare are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas like Weinfelder Maar, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Parking is generally available near the popular Maare. For Weinfelder Maar, guests can park along the L64 either in the parking lot at the Maar itself or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder and Schalkenmehrener Maar. The Gemündener Maar also has a car park near the forest café, which serves as a starting point for many hikes.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments near some of the lakes. At Gemündener Maar, there is a forest café. The village of Schalkmehren, located south of Schalkenmehrener Maar, also offers places to stop for refreshments. The wider Eifel region has various cafes and pubs in nearby towns.
The Weinfelder Maar, also known as Totenmaar, is unique for its melancholic atmosphere and rich history. Formed by volcanic activity, it's a nature reserve where swimming is prohibited. It features a small chapel on its north bank, dedicated to Saint Martin, which was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld. The associated cemetery is still maintained, giving it the name 'Totenmaar' (Dead Man's Maar). Legends also surround the lake, with tales of a sunken castle.


Still not found your perfect lake around Wallscheid? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.