Top 20 Lakes around Brockscheid
Best lakes around Brockscheid are found within the Vulkaneifel district, a region characterized by its unique volcanic landscape. This area is home to several crater lakes, locally known as "Maare," often referred to as the "Eyes of the Eifel." These natural formations offer diverse features and recreational opportunities, making them significant attractions. The maars provide a variety of natural beauty, from deep, circular lakes to marshy depressions, reflecting the region's volcanic past.
Best lakes around Brockscheid
- The most popular lakes…
Last updated: May 9, 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 Brockscheid.
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
Which lakes around Brockscheid are best for swimming and water activities?
For swimming and water activities, the Gemündener Maar and Schalkenmehrener Maar are excellent choices. The Gemündener Maar offers a swimming pool, boat rentals, and a diving platform. The Schalkenmehrener Maar also allows swimming and paddle boating. The Pulvermaar, one of the deepest lakes in Germany, is also popular for swimming and paddle boating in summer.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Brockscheid?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. The Gemündener Maar is family-friendly, offering a swimming pool and boat rentals. The Schalkenmehrener Maar also has a beautiful circular path and opportunities for swimming and paddle boating, making it great for families.
What kind of hiking trails can I find around the lakes near Brockscheid?
The Vulkaneifel region offers a variety of hiking trails around its maars. You can find circular paths around lakes like the Schalkenmehrener Maar and the Weinfelder Maar. The 'Määrchen-Naturwaldpfad' connects the Hetsche Maar, Dürre Maar, and Holzmaar, offering various hiking options. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Brockscheid guide.
Are there any tranquil or lesser-known lakes for a peaceful visit?
For tranquility, the Weinfelder Maar (also known as Totenmaar) is highly recommended. It's known for its peaceful atmosphere, a small chapel, and a cemetery at its upper crater. Swimming and water sports are prohibited here, preserving its serene nature. The Holzmaar and Dürre Maar, accessible by hiking trails from Brockscheid, also offer a quieter experience.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Brockscheid?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but summer is ideal for swimming and paddle boating at lakes like Pulvermaar, Schalkenmehrener Maar, and Gemündener Maar. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the vibrant natural scenery. Clear days provide extensive views from spots like the Dronketurm near Weinfelder Maar.
What unique natural features can I observe at the Eifel Maars?
The Eifel Maars are unique volcanic crater lakes, often called the 'Eyes of the Eifel'. You can observe features like the rare double maar formation at Schalkenmehrener Maar, the almost perfectly circular shape and depth of Pulvermaar (the deepest lake north of the Alps), and the marshy sedge meadow of Hetsche Maar, which is the smallest and oldest volcanic eruption site in the Holzmaar group.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the lakes?
Yes, you can find refreshment stops. The village of Schalkmehren, near the Schalkenmehrener Maar, offers places to eat. The Gemündener Maar has a forest café right by the lake. These spots provide convenient options for visitors.
What historical or cultural sites are associated with the lakes?
The Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) has significant historical context. A local legend suggests it swallowed the old village of Weinfeld. At its upper crater, there's a small chapel, some of which dates from the 14th century, surrounded by a cemetery. This chapel was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld, which was abandoned due to the plague in the 16th century.
Can I find routes for mountain biking or running near the lakes?
Absolutely. The region around Brockscheid offers various routes for outdoor activities. For mountain biking, you can find trails like the 'View of the Gemünden maar – Gemündener Maar loop from Üdersdorf'. For running, options include the 'View of the Schalkenmehrener Maar – Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg loop'. You can explore more routes in the MTB Trails around Brockscheid guide and the Running Trails around Brockscheid guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Brockscheid?
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful circular paths around the maars, the opportunities for swimming and boating, and the tranquil atmosphere, especially at lakes like the Weinfelder Maar. The unique volcanic landscape and the extensive views from viewpoints like the Dronketurm are also highly appreciated. The komoot community has shared over 790 photos and given more than 3500 upvotes, highlighting the region's appeal.
Is there public transport available to reach the lakes from Brockscheid?
While specific public transport routes to each lake are not detailed, the Schalkenmehrener Maar can be reached from Brockscheid on foot in about 45 minutes via forest paths, or more quickly by bicycle via the Maare-Mosel cycling path. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to the villages near the maars.
Are there any lakes that are particularly good for scenic views?
Many maars offer stunning views. The Weinfelder Maar has an upper circular path that offers extensive views, with a detour to the Dronketurm providing panoramic vistas reaching the Moselle Valley, and even Belgium and Luxembourg on clear days. The Gemündener Maar also provides scenic beauty, often captured from viewpoints like the View of the Gemünden maar.
What is the Holzmaar group, and which maars are part of it?
The Holzmaar group consists of the Holzmaar, Dürre Maar, and Hetsche Maar. The Holzmaar covers 6 hectares and is accessible by hiking trails from Brockscheid. The Dürre Maar is directly next to the Holzmaar, and the Hetsche Maar is the smallest maar in the Eifel and the oldest volcanic eruption site within this group, largely silted up into a marshy sedge meadow.
Most popular routes around Brockscheid
Most popular attractions around Brockscheid
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Brockscheid? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
