Best attractions and places to see around Retterath include a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences within Germany's Vulkaneifel district. The village is situated at the base of the Hochkelberg, surrounded by the Eifel's rolling hills. This setting provides a base for exploring volcanic landscapes, cultural landmarks, and scenic routes.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The Ulmen Maar lies 420 meters above sea level today, covers an area of 5.5 hectares, and is 36 meters deep. The bubbles at the maar's edge demonstrate that volcanism is still active. They bear witness to a turbulent past—but rest assured, there's no eruption in sight! A wall of various rocks and ash, up to 20 meters thick, surrounds the cone. For those interested, these testimonies to this explosive past are beautifully displayed in St. Matthias Church. This unique wall, with its different colored layers and rounded inclusions, is worth seeing for more than just geologists. The slopes of the maar basin are covered with a beautiful forest, which can be explored on a circular walk. A detour to the medieval castle ruins, from which the Crusaders once launched their campaigns, is recommended. The view from the crater rim over the maar and the Eifel beyond will take your breath away. Whether after a sweaty hike or a long drive, the blue of the Ulmer Eifel lake is all too tempting in summer. However, bathing in the maar is prohibited because it is designated as a nature and water protection area.
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The Ulmener Maar is small but beautiful. Located in the middle of the Eifel and in the middle of the city, it is a wonderful destination. You can easily combine a walk around the maar with a walk around the neighboring Jungferweiher. Both have recently been connected by the Ulmener Maar tunnel, which runs under the A 48 motorway.
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The egg-shaped ejected particles are 6 cm or larger and deform the layers of earth when impacted. They are clearly visible here on the rock walls.
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A visit is worthwhile both in summer and in winter. However, the Ulmener Maar is a nature reserve, which is why bathing is strictly forbidden here!
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Wroom, wroom, wrooom, wroooooom!
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The MTB 1 circular route is well signposted and it is often easy to get to the route and to many spectator seats✌🏻
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Here the Endertbach falls 7 meters to the valley. The waterfall, the so-called "Rausch", is next to the old mills the most beautiful highlight of our hike through the Enderttal. Really worth seeing.
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Beautiful waterfall in the valley. Nice place to take a break.
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The region around Retterath is rich in natural beauty. You can visit The Rausch Waterfall, a beautiful spot for a refreshing break. Another unique geological feature is the Boos Lava Bomb, where explanatory panels offer insights into the area's volcanic past. Don't miss the Ulmener Maar, a deep lake in a volcanic crater, showcasing active volcanism.
Yes, Retterath and its vicinity offer several historical and cultural landmarks. In the village, you can find the 17th-century St. Anna Chapel and the Gothic Revival St. Remigius's Catholic Parish Church. A bit further afield, the impressive Himmerod Monastery is renowned for its architecture and rich history. You can also explore traditional timber-frame houses and basalt shaft wayside crosses throughout the village.
Retterath is an excellent starting point for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous well-marked trails for hiking, cycling, and running. For hiking, explore routes like the 'Klein Amerika Rest Area – Muße-Platz Uersfeld loop' or 'Eulenberg – Heiligenhäuschen Oberelz loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as 'Geisberg – Bergkrone Mine Tunnel loop'. Discover more options on the dedicated guides for Hiking around Retterath, Road Cycling Routes around Retterath, and Running Trails around Retterath.
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the Boos Eifel Observation Tower. From its top, you can often see the Nürburgring, the Nürburg, the Hohe Acht, and the Doppel-Maar, offering a fantastic perspective of the surrounding Eifel region.
Yes, several attractions cater to families. The Rausch Waterfall and Boos Lava Bomb are natural spots that can be enjoyed by all ages. For a fun day, especially when the weather isn't ideal for outdoor activities, the Cascade Leisure Pool is a great option. The Ulmener Maar also offers a pleasant circular walk suitable for families.
The 'History Route' is a themed 12-kilometer hiking trail that circles the Hochkelberg. This path takes you past historically significant sites, including a former gallows and the Grüner Weiher pond, offering a unique blend of nature and local history.
The Nürburgring, a legendary racetrack, is located nearby and offers more than just racing. You can visit the famous Schwalbenschwanz section of the Nordschleife, explore Nürburg Castle, or visit the ring°werk museum. It's a significant attraction for motorsports enthusiasts and those interested in its history.
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and tranquility. For instance, the Rausch Waterfall is loved for being a great spot for a short rest and cooling off. The Boos Lava Bomb is appreciated for its impressive geological insights, especially for families. The panoramic views from the Boos Eifel Observation Tower are also a big hit.
Yes, the Eifeler Musikfest is an annual cultural highlight in the region. This event draws thousands of visitors and showcases a variety of local and international musicians, making it a vibrant experience for music lovers.
Absolutely. The surrounding area features several charming towns. Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler is known for its beautiful architecture and thermal baths, offering a relaxing experience. Another popular destination is Cochem, famous for its impressive Cochem Castle perched high above the Moselle River.
Retterath offers quaint boutiques and artisan shops where you can find handcrafted goods and regional products. These shops provide a glimpse into the local craftsmanship and are perfect for finding unique souvenirs or gifts.
The Eifel region, including the area around Retterath, is famous for its volcanic history. You'll encounter numerous geological features, such as volcanic craters (maars) like the Ulmener Maar, and unique formations like the Boos Lava Bomb. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills and visible signs of past volcanic activity.


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