Lakes around Darscheid are primarily volcanic maars, characteristic of the Vulkaneifel district in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. This region is defined by its unique geological history, featuring crater lakes formed by volcanic explosions. These maars offer diverse natural features and recreational opportunities. The area provides a landscape for exploring volcanic formations and engaging in outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Popular around Darscheid
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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The lakes around Darscheid are primarily volcanic maars, which are crater lakes formed by volcanic explosions in the Vulkaneifel district. This geological origin gives them a distinctive character, with some being deep and crystal-clear, nestled within lush forests, and offering unique natural beauty.
Several maars offer excellent swimming opportunities. The Schalkenmehrener Maar and Gemündener Maar both have natural swimming pools. Pulvermaar is also known for its pristine, deep blue waters and designated swimming areas with slides and diving towers. Meerfelder Maar allows swimming in its natural pool from May to September.
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking opportunities. Circular paths are available around many maars, such as the Schalkenmehrener Maar and Pulvermaar. The MaareGlück circular route and sections of the Eifelsteig long-distance trail pass by the Gemündener Maar. The Weinfelder Maar, while not allowing swimming, has a nearly two-kilometer-long footpath for exploring its unique flora. For more extensive hiking options, you can explore the Running Trails around Darscheid guide.
The maars themselves are significant natural features, showcasing volcanic geology. You can find stunning viewpoints like the View of the Gemünden maar and the View of the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar). The Meerfelder Maar offers unforgettable panoramic views from the 'Landesblick' platform on its crater rim, and the Dronketurm tower near Weinfelder Maar also provides scenic vistas of the Eifel.
Many of the maars are very family-friendly. The Gemündener Maar and Pulvermaar offer designated swimming areas for children, sunbathing lawns, and boat rentals. The Schalkenmehrener Maar is also a popular spot for families with its natural swimming pool and scenic walking paths.
While specific regulations for dogs vary by maar, many hiking trails around the lakes are generally dog-friendly. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves like the Weinfelder Maar and Meerfelder Maar, to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the changing foliage. Summer is ideal for swimming and boating, with many maars providing excellent facilities. The region's natural beauty, especially the surrounding deciduous forests, offers a romantic backdrop for walks throughout the year.
Yes, the Weinfelder Maar, also known as 'Totenmaar,' is particularly rich in history. On its north bank stands a small chapel dedicated to St. Martin, which was once the parish church of the abandoned village of Weinfeld. The Ulmener Maar features medieval castle ruins nearby and an accessible tunnel offering a glimpse into a volcano's cross-section, combining natural and historical interest.
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Many maars, including Pulvermaar, Gemündener Maar, and Schalkenmehrener Maar, offer pedal and rowing boat rentals. Fishing is also popular in several lakes, such as Pulvermaar, Gemündener Maar, Meerfelder Maar, and Ulmener Maar. For cycling enthusiasts, there are MTB Trails around Darscheid and Gravel biking around Darscheid guides available.
Parking is generally available at or near the popular maars. For instance, at the Gemündener Maar, there's a car park near the forest café. For the Weinfelder Maar, guests can park along the L64 either at the maar's parking lot or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder and Schalkenmehrener Maars.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. The Gemündener Maar has a forest café, and Pulvermaar features a cafeteria with maar views. The village of Schalkenmehren, adjacent to the Schalkenmehrener Maar, offers restaurants and cafés.
Pulvermaar is considered one of the best-preserved maars in the Eifel and is one of Germany's deepest lakes. Its almost circular shape, crystal-clear deep blue water, and surrounding lush forests create a picturesque setting. It offers excellent swimming, boating, and hiking, with well-maintained facilities and informative displays about its geological history.


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