Top 20 Lakes around Steiningen
Best lakes around Steiningen are primarily volcanic maars, characteristic of the Vulkaneifel district in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. This region is defined by its unique volcanic landscape, where these water-filled craters serve as significant natural attractions. The maars offer diverse features and recreational opportunities, making the area a notable destination for outdoor activities. The surrounding Vulkaneifel district, part of the UNESCO European Geopark, provides extensive hiking and cycling trails.
Best lakes around Steiningen
- The most popular lakes is Schalkenmehrener Maar, a…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
View of the Gemünden maar
Highlight • Lake
Showing Translation
Tip by
Schalkenmehrener Maar
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
View of the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar)
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
View of Totenmaar from the panoramic bench
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Weinfelder Maar viewpoint
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Steiningen.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
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
13
0
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
13
0
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
13
0
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
12
0
Very nice panoramic view
7
0
From the Mäuseberg high above the maars you have a fantastic view in clear weather
8
0
A very worthwhile detour, especially as the donkeys and goats are so friendly.
7
0
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.
10
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Steiningen unique?
The lakes around Steiningen are primarily volcanic maars, which are craters filled with water, characteristic of the Vulkaneifel district. This region is part of the UNESCO European Geopark, known for its unique volcanic landscape. These maars, often called the 'eyes of the Eifel,' offer significant natural attractions and diverse recreational opportunities.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes near Steiningen?
Yes, the Vulkaneifel region provides extensive hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the stunning natural beauty of these volcanic lakes. For instance, there is a very beautiful circular path around Schalkenmehrener Maar. The Gemündener Maar also offers opportunities to explore by boat and is a starting point for numerous hikes. You can find many routes in the area, such as those listed in the MTB Trails around Steiningen guide, which includes a 'Von Maar zu Maar - die Vulkanseen Tour'.
Can I swim in the lakes around Steiningen?
Yes, some of the maars are popular for swimming. The Gemündener Maar and Schalkenmehrener Maar are known for their natural outdoor pools and opportunities for water sports. However, swimming and other water sports are prohibited in the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) due to its protected unique flora and fauna.
Are the lakes around Steiningen suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many of the maars are considered family-friendly. For example, View of the Gemünden maar, Schalkenmehrener Maar, and View of the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) are all categorized as family-friendly. They offer easy walks, swimming opportunities, and scenic viewpoints that can be enjoyed by all ages.
What geological features can I observe at these lakes?
The maars are significant geological formations, resulting from explosive volcanic activity. The Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar), for instance, is recognized for its impressive evidence of Earth's explosive history. The region's landscape is shaped by these volcanic craters, and you can often see the tuff walls surrounding the lakes, which are remnants of the eruptions.
When is the best time to visit the Vulkaneifel maars?
The clear waters and surrounding wooded slopes make the maars ideal for nature lovers and recreation seekers, especially during warmer months for swimming and water activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the vibrant foliage. While winter hiking is possible, some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there less crowded lakes to visit near Steiningen?
While the Dauner Maars (Schalkenmehrener, Gemündener, and Weinfelder) are popular, the Vulkaneifel district is home to numerous maars. Pulvermaar, near Gillenfeld, is another well-preserved maar with a large water surface. Ulmener Maar is considered the youngest of the Eifel maars, and Meerfelder Maar is also a recommended spot for relaxation. These might offer a quieter experience compared to the more frequented Dauner Maars.
What kind of outdoor activities, besides hiking, are available near the lakes?
Beyond hiking, the area around Steiningen offers various cycling opportunities. You can explore road cycling routes like those found in the Road Cycling Routes around Steiningen guide, or tackle mountain biking trails detailed in the MTB Trails around Steiningen guide. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes such as the 'View of the Schalkenmehrener Maar – Weinfelder Maar loop' available in the Gravel biking around Steiningen guide.
What cultural or historic sites can be found near the lakes?
The Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) is notable for its historic chapel of St. Martin and an associated cemetery on its northern bank. This chapel, dating partly from the 14th century, was once the parish church of the abandoned village of Weinfeld. The site adds a unique historical and melancholic atmosphere to the natural beauty of the maar.
Is parking available at the lakes?
Yes, parking is generally available. For example, at the Weinfelder Maar, guests can park along the L64 either in the parking lot at the maar itself or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar. The Gemündener Maar also has a car park near its forest café and starting point for hikes.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Steiningen?
Visitors frequently praise the picturesque scenery and the diverse outdoor activities. Many enjoy the beautiful circular paths around maars like Schalkenmehrener Maar, and the opportunity to swim or rent boats at places like Gemündener Maar. The unique volcanic landscape and the tranquility of the maars are also highly appreciated.
Are there cafes or refreshment stops near the lakes?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. For instance, at the Gemündener Maar, you'll find a forest café. The village of Schalkmehren, located south of Schalkenmehrener Maar, also offers places to stop for refreshments.
Most popular routes around Steiningen
Most popular attractions around Steiningen
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Steiningen? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
