The best volcano hikes and walks around Kondelwald
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Volcano hiking trails around Kondelwald are situated in the heart of the Volcanic Eifel region, characterized by its unique geological formations. The landscape features ancient volcanic craters, known as maars, alongside rolling hills and dense woodlands. This area offers a diverse terrain for hikers, with paths winding through forests, around crater lakes, and to scenic viewpoints. The region's volcanic past has shaped a distinct environment, providing varied elevation changes and natural landmarks.
Best volcano hiking trails around Kondelwald
- The most…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
5.0
(5)
31
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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8
hikers
6.25km
01:46
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
6
hikers
3.92km
01:07
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2,433
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11.4km
03:18
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(39)
149
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
very nice view of Schalkenmehren and its Maar
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A well-maintained cycle path runs around the maar, and beautiful views are guaranteed.
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at this point now well hidden behind trees
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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 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
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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 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
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From the church without a village, you have a wonderful view.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many volcano hiking trails are available around Kondelwald?
There are over 10 dedicated volcano hiking trails around Kondelwald, offering a variety of experiences. These trails allow you to explore the unique volcanic landscape of the Eifel region, including its distinctive maars.
What kind of volcanic features can I expect to see on these trails?
The trails around Kondelwald primarily showcase the region's maars, which are volcanic lakes formed in explosion craters. You'll encounter stunning views of these natural wonders, such as the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar, often surrounded by lush forests and offering unique geological insights.
Are there any easy volcano hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy volcano hikes perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Schalkenmehren Maar loop from Schalkenmehren is an easy 6.2 km route, and the Hoher List Observatory loop is a shorter 3.9 km easy option, both offering beautiful views without significant elevation gain.
Can I bring my dog on the volcano hiking trails in Kondelwald?
Many of the volcano hiking trails in the Kondelwald and surrounding Volcanic Eifel region are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves or near livestock, and to check specific trail regulations if available. Always carry water for your dog.
Are there any circular routes among the volcano hikes?
Yes, many of the volcano hikes around Kondelwald are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the View of the Weinfelder Maar – Schalkenmehrener Maar loop and the Schalkenmehrener Maar – Dronke Tower loop, both offering comprehensive explorations of the volcanic landscape.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near the volcano trails?
Beyond the maars themselves, you can explore various points of interest. Near some trails, you might find shelters like the Drei Eichen Hut or the Viktoriahöhe Shelter. The region also features unique geological formations and viewpoints, such as the Heinrich-Raulwing-Platz Viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the volcanic landscape.
What is the best time of year to hike the volcano trails in Kondelwald?
The volcano trails around Kondelwald are beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery and pleasant temperatures, while autumn transforms the landscape with stunning fall colors. Even in winter, with a fresh dusting of snow, the maars and volcanic formations offer a unique, serene experience. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Where can I find parking for these volcano hikes?
Parking is generally available at the starting points of many popular trails, especially in villages like Schalkenmehren. Look for designated hiking parking areas or public parking lots. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the volcano hiking trails in Kondelwald?
Yes, several villages and towns in the Volcanic Eifel region, such as Bad Bertrich and those surrounding the maars, offer cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel after your hike. You might also find mountain huts like the Uessbach Hut along some routes, providing refreshments and a place to rest.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the volcano trails in Kondelwald?
The komoot community highly rates the volcano trails around Kondelwald, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 5,400 ratings. Hikers frequently praise the stunning natural beauty of the maars, the well-maintained paths, and the unique geological insights offered by the volcanic landscape. The peaceful atmosphere and diverse scenery are also commonly highlighted.
Are there any trails that combine volcanic features with other natural attractions like caves or waterfalls?
While the primary focus is volcanic features, the broader region around Kondelwald is rich in natural wonders. You can find nearby attractions such as the Elf Grotto and Elbesbach Waterfall, or the Falkenlay Stone Age Caves. While not directly on the volcano trails, these can be explored as separate excursions or combined with a shorter volcano hike for a diverse day out.
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