Top 20 Natural Monuments around Winkel (Eifel)
Natural monuments around Winkel (Eifel) showcase the region's volcanic landscape and diverse geological features. The area is characterized by its maars, which are volcanic lakes, and varied terrain. This environment provides opportunities to explore natural formations and observe the Eifel's ecological characteristics. The landscape offers a range of natural attractions for visitors.
Best natural monuments around Winkel (Eifel)
- The most popular natural monuments is Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg, a viewpoint that offers panoramic views over the maars. This…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg
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View of the Gemünden maar
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Schalkenmehrener Maar
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View of the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar)
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View of Totenmaar from the panoramic bench
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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
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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
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Very nice panoramic view
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From the Mäuseberg high above the maars you have a fantastic view in clear weather
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A very worthwhile detour, especially as the donkeys and goats are so friendly.
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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.
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Nice view with markers for orientation. The tower, which was built in 1902, is only 11m high, but stands on top of the 560m high Mauseberg and is thus 166m above the Gemünder Maar, guaranteeing a magnificent view of the surrounding area.
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Beautiful view with an information board for orientation. The tower, built in 1902, is only eleven meters high, but stands at the top of the 560-meter-high Mäuseberg and is thus 166 meters above the Gemünder Maar. This guarantees a magnificent view over the surrounding area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural monuments can I explore around Winkel (Eifel)?
The region around Winkel (Eifel) is rich in diverse natural monuments, primarily known for its unique volcanic landscape. You can explore various maars (volcanic lakes) such as the Schalkenmehrener Maar and the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar). Other features include impressive geological formations like the Dwarves' Grotto, scenic viewpoints such as the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg, and distinct landscapes like the Kalkeifel with its ancient limestone soils.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments to visit in the Winkel (Eifel) area?
Yes, several natural monuments around Winkel (Eifel) are suitable for families. The View of the Gemünden maar is considered family-friendly, offering a beautiful outdoor pool and opportunities to explore the volcanic lake by boat. The Schalkenmehrener Maar also features a circular path that is great for walks with children. Additionally, the View of Totenmaar from the panoramic bench provides an accessible and scenic spot for all ages.
What are the best viewpoints to experience the Eifel's volcanic landscape?
For breathtaking panoramic views of the Eifel's volcanic landscape, visit the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg, which offers a direct view of the Gemündener Maar. Another excellent spot is the View of Totenmaar from the panoramic bench, providing a wonderful perspective of the Weinfelder Maar. The Loechle Rock also offers expansive views and amenities for a pleasant break.
Can I go hiking or cycling near these natural monuments?
Absolutely! The natural monuments around Winkel (Eifel) are excellent starting points for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the 13.7 km Apoloniaweg, which offers panoramic views. For cycling, there are dedicated routes for mountain biking and road cycling. Explore MTB Trails around Winkel (Eifel) or Road Cycling Routes around Winkel (Eifel) for detailed options.
Are there any unique geological formations besides the maars?
Beyond the famous maars, the Eifel region offers other fascinating geological features. The Dwarves' Grotto is an impressive gorge with a mythical history. The Kalkeifel, a distinct landscape in the northern Eifel, showcases limestone soils over 360 million years old. You might also encounter 'Klappersteine' (rattling stones), intriguing flint spheres found in areas like the Ditschbachtal, which rattle when shaken due to a loose core. For more information on Klappersteine, you can visit Wikipedia.
What historical or cultural aspects are associated with the natural monuments?
Some natural monuments in the region have historical and cultural significance. The Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg was erected as a monument to Dr. Adolf Dronke, founder of the Eifel Club. The Weinfelder Maar, also known as Totenmaar, has a small chapel and cemetery dating back to the 14th century, which was once the parish church of a plague-ravaged village. Legends also surround the Dwarves' Grotto, said to have been inhabited by small earth dwellers.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Winkel (Eifel)?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views, especially from spots like the Dronke Tower. The tranquility and unique atmosphere of the maars, such as the Weinfelder Maar, are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the well-maintained circular paths around the lakes and the opportunities for hiking and cycling through the diverse volcanic landscape.
Are there opportunities for running or jogging near the natural monuments?
Yes, the scenic landscape around Winkel (Eifel) provides excellent opportunities for running. You can find various running trails that take you through beautiful natural settings, often around the maars. For specific routes, check out the Running Trails around Winkel (Eifel) guide, which includes options like the Mürmesbach Moor – Schalkenmehrener Maar loop.
Is there a place to relax and observe wildlife near Winkel (Eifel)?
Lucelle Lake, situated on the border with France, offers a wild and romantic ambiance perfect for relaxation and wildlife observation. Its banks are overgrown with reeds and trees, making it an ideal spot to watch waterfowl such as ducks and gray herons in their natural habitat.
What is the best season to visit the natural monuments in Winkel (Eifel)?
The Eifel region's natural monuments are beautiful year-round, but spring, summer, and early autumn are generally considered the best seasons for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. During these months, the weather is typically mild, and the landscape is vibrant. Autumn offers spectacular fall foliage, especially around the maars.
How can I access the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar)?
You can access the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) by parking along the L64 at either the designated parking lot or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar. From there, paths lead down to the maar, allowing you to hike in various directions around the lake.
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