Top 20 Lakes around Berenbach
Best lakes around Berenbach are primarily volcanic maars, characteristic of the Eifel region's unique geological history. These natural formations offer diverse landscapes, from deep crater lakes to dry maars, often surrounded by tuff walls. Many feature well-maintained circular paths, suitable for family friendly lakes Berenbach exploration and easy lake walks near Berenbach. The area combines natural beauty with historical elements, such as ancient chapels and castle ruins.
Best lakes around Berenbach
- The most popular lakes is Schalkenmehrener Maar, a…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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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Weinfelder Maar viewpoint
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Maarkreuz — View of the Schalkenmehren Maar
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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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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Berenbach are particularly popular for visitors?
Visitors frequently enjoy the unique volcanic maars of the region. Among the most popular are Schalkenmehrener Maar, known as the largest of the three Dauner Maars, and Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar), which features a historic chapel. The Ulmener Maar, with its 11th-century castle ruins, is also a favorite.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities suitable for children?
Yes, several lakes are considered family-friendly. Schalkenmehrener Maar, Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar), and Ulmener Maar all offer well-maintained circular paths that are suitable for family exploration. The gentle trails and natural beauty make them ideal for outings with children.
Where can I find parking when visiting the lakes?
For Weinfelder Maar, parking is available along the L64, either directly at the Maar's parking lot or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder and Schalkenmehrener Maars. Specific parking information for other lakes may vary, but many popular maars have designated areas.
What kind of historical or cultural sites can be found near the lakes?
The region's lakes are often intertwined with history. Near Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar), you can visit a historic chapel and an associated cemetery, some parts dating back to the 14th century. The Ulmener Maar features the impressive ruins of an 11th-century knight's castle on its southern edge.
Are there easy circular walks around the lakes?
Yes, many of the volcanic maars around Berenbach offer easy and scenic circular paths. For instance, Schalkenmehrener Maar has a beautiful circular path, and Weinfelder Maar can be explored on a nearly two-kilometer-long path.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Berenbach?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including moderate routes like the 'View of the Jungferweiher – Ulmener Maar Tunnel loop'. For cyclists, there are extensive MTB trails and road cycling routes. Find more details on specific routes in the Hiking around Berenbach, MTB Trails around Berenbach, and Road Cycling Routes around Berenbach guides.
Is wild swimming permitted in the lakes?
Wild swimming regulations vary by lake. For example, swimming and other water sports are prohibited in Weinfelder Maar due to its status as a nature reserve. Always check local signage or official sources for specific rules regarding water activities at each lake.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Berenbach?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and fewer crowds, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for enjoying the surrounding nature, though it can be busier. Winter provides a serene, often snowy, landscape for quiet walks, but some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there cafes or refreshment options near the lakes?
Yes, some lakes have nearby refreshment options. For instance, the village of Schalkmehren, located to the south of Schalkenmehrener Maar, offers places to stop for refreshments after your walk.
Can I bring my dog to the lake trails?
Generally, many trails around the Eifel maars are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas or where livestock (like the donkeys and goats at Weinfelder Maar) are used for vegetation regulation. Always check specific rules for each lake or trail.
Are there accessible trails for wheelchairs around the lakes?
While many circular paths are well-maintained, specific information on wheelchair accessibility for all trails is not readily available. Some paths may have uneven surfaces or inclines. It's advisable to check detailed trail descriptions or contact local tourist information for specific accessible routes.
What makes the lakes around Berenbach unique?
The lakes around Berenbach are primarily volcanic maars, which are unique geological formations characteristic of the Eifel region. These deep crater lakes, often surrounded by tuff walls, were formed by volcanic steam explosions. This geological history creates diverse landscapes and a distinct natural beauty not found in many other regions.
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