Best lakes around Hersdorf are found within the Eifel region of Rhineland-Palatinate, an area characterized by its unique volcanic crater lakes, known as "Maare," and other picturesque reservoirs. Hersdorf itself is located in the Eifelkreis Bitburg-Prüm district, offering access to diverse aquatic landscapes. This region provides a blend of geological history and natural beauty, making it a notable destination for outdoor exploration.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
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 • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Hersdorf.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
To us, such a mill pond, as it presents itself to the viewer here on site – at the Müllenborn hiking parking lot – may seem very ordinary, but in the fantasy world of, for example, Otfried Preußler (1923 to 2013), who became famous for the children's books he wrote, it looks completely different: It is also the habitat of a water sprite family, and his book, still popular today, "The Little Water Sprite" tells of the adventures that the young family members experience in the mill pond. The "Stiftung Lesen" (Reading Foundation) reviews: "The water sprite has invited twenty-seven relatives – and twenty-six have come. Twelve water sprites with their wives, a well sprite and the bridge maiden from the Sankt Nepomuk Bridge! And they have all accepted the invitation because they want to see the little water sprite, of whom the water sprite dad is so proud. And he can be – because the cheeky little rascal can swim as soon as he is born. And he learns everything else faster than his worried parents would like. Sometimes his friend, the thoughtful carp Cyprinus, can only wiggle his fins ... The 1956 children's book classic has already enchanted generations of readers, who, alongside the fantastic adventures of the little water sprite, can also pass on their own childhood memories when reading aloud to children from approx. 5 years of age." (Source: Stiftung Lesen)
2
0
A beautiful, hidden, idyllic place to linger.
0
0
Lake Müllenborn – often called Müllenborner Weiher – is picturesquely located in the Müllenborn district north of Gerolstein and is a real insider tip for Komoot tours. The idyllic expanse of water, surrounded by cool forests, invites you to stroll, picnic, and enjoy mindful moments by the water. A beautiful, approximately 6km circular trail leads around the lake, past the historic millstone ruins and along the Oosbach stream – ideal for quiet explorations away from the hustle and bustle. Around Müllenborn, you'll learn firsthand about the region's volcanic history: Oversized basalt blocks from the former Rother Kopf dominate the forest landscape, and you'll repeatedly encounter springs, small bridges, and the remains of old mills – hence the name "Mühlenborn" (Millsborn). The village itself, with its chapel and baroque houses on the shore, provides a charming, historic setting for the lake. The lake is not open for swimming, but in summer, you'll often find locals cooling off or fishing here; provided you have a valid license. A visit to the Müllenborn Lake Festival in July is particularly atmospheric – with brass bands, a festival tent, and a convivial village atmosphere. Just a few hundred meters away is the comfortable Landhaus Müllenborn, a 4-star country hotel with a spa, sauna, and sauna terrace – perfect for relaxing after the circular hike. The Eifelsteig trail runs nearby, and cyclists can also find connections to regional routes such as the Eifel-Ardennes Cycle Route.
0
0
Lake Müllenborn – often called Müllenborner Weiher – is picturesquely located in the Müllenborn district north of Gerolstein and is a real insider tip for Komoot tours. The idyllic expanse of water, surrounded by cool forests, invites you to stroll, picnic, and enjoy mindful moments by the water. A beautiful, approximately 6km circular trail leads around the lake, past the historic millstone ruins and along the Oosbach stream – ideal for quiet explorations away from the hustle and bustle. Around Müllenborn, you'll learn firsthand about the region's volcanic history: Oversized basalt blocks from the former Rother Kopf dominate the forest landscape, and you'll repeatedly encounter springs, small bridges, and the remains of old mills – hence the name "Mühlenborn" (Millsborn). The village itself, with its chapel and baroque houses on the shore, provides a charming, historic setting for the lake. The lake is not open for swimming, but in summer, you'll often find locals cooling off or fishing here; provided you have a valid license. A visit to the Müllenborn Lake Festival in July is particularly atmospheric – with brass bands, a festival tent, and a convivial village atmosphere. Just a few hundred meters away is the comfortable Landhaus Müllenborn, a 4-star country hotel with a spa, sauna, and sauna terrace – perfect for relaxing after the circular hike. The Eifelsteig trail runs nearby, and cyclists can also find connections to regional routes such as the Eifel-Ardennes Cycle Route.
0
0
This place invites you to linger, simply enjoy the peace and observe nature.
0
0
The Müllenborn See is somewhat hidden, but it is always worth a look. You can also go around this small lake without any problems.
3
0
The Eifel region, where Hersdorf is located, is renowned for its unique volcanic crater lakes, known as "Maare." These are often called the "eyes of the Eifel" due to their striking appearance and volcanic origins, offering a blend of geological history and natural beauty.
Yes, several lakes in the Eifel region offer swimming. The Pulvermaar has a natural swimming pool area suitable for all ages. You can also swim in the Gemündener Maar, which features an outdoor pool, and the Schalkenmehrener Maar is a popular spot for swimming. The Meerfelder Maar also allows swimming in summer.
Many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. A circular route around the Pulvermaar is ideal for cycling, walking, or hiking. The Gemündener Maar is part of the MaareGlück circular hiking route, and the Schalkenmehrener Maar has a beautiful circular path. You can also find a circular trail around Müllenborn Pond. The Laacher See is also a great destination for hiking.
Yes, several lakes are well-suited for families. The Pulvermaar offers a natural swimming pool area for all ages, including non-swimmers and small children. Müllenborn Pond and Birch Pond are also noted as family-friendly spots for strolling and enjoying nature.
The Eifel Maare themselves are significant natural features. At the Weinfelder Maar, you can climb the Dronketurm on the crater rim for powerful views of the volcanic Eifel landscape. The Laacher See is known for carbon dioxide bubbles (mofettes) rising from the water, indicating its volcanic origins. Birch Pond offers a tranquil spot to observe nature.
Yes, the Laacher See is notable for the Romanesque Maria Laach Abbey located on its southern shore, offering a harmonious interplay of geological history, spirituality, and idyllic landscape. Near Müllenborn Pond, you can find historic millstone ruins and the charming village of Müllenborn with its chapel and baroque houses.
Near the Gemündener Maar, there is a charming forest café. Refreshments are also available in the village of Schalkmehren, close to the Schalkenmehrener Maar. For accommodation, the comfortable Landhaus Müllenborn, a 4-star country hotel with a spa, is just a few hundred meters from Müllenborn Pond.
Beyond hiking and swimming, the region around Hersdorf offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB Trails, Gravel Biking routes, and Road Cycling Routes. Fishing is also possible at lakes like Stausee Willwerath (with a valid license) and Meerfelder Maar.
The Holzmaar is notable as a site of ongoing scientific research, with buoys floating on its surface. It formed approximately 40,000 years ago and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and scientific importance.
Yes, fishing is possible in some lakes. Stausee Willwerath is maintained by a local fishing association, and fishing is also permitted in the Meerfelder Maar. For Müllenborn Pond, a valid license is required.
The Laacher See is the largest volcanic lake in the Eifel and in Rhineland-Palatinate. It's a significant geological site, known for its volcanic origins and the Romanesque Maria Laach Abbey on its shore.
Müllenborn Pond is described as a hidden, idyllic expanse of water surrounded by forests, perfect for quiet explorations. The Meerfelder Maar is also celebrated for its tranquility and idyllic setting.


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