Easy hikes and walks in Dauner Maare
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Easy hiking trails in Dauner Maare traverse a unique volcanic landscape characterized by serene crater lakes, known as maars, and surrounding forests. The region features three prominent maars: the Gemündener Maar, Weinfelder Maar, and Schalkenmehrener Maar, each formed by ancient volcanic activity. Hikers will find varied terrain, including gentle paths around the lakes and ascents to viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the Eifel. The landscape is rich in natural features, including diverse plant communities and woodlands.
Best easy hiking trails in Dauner Maare
- The most popular easy hiking route is Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg – View of the Weinfelder Maar loop from Daun, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 32 minutes to complete. This route leads to the Dronketurm observation tower, offering views of the Weinfelder Maar.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is View of Schalkenmehren – Weinfelder Maar viewpoint loop from Schalkenmehren, an easy 4.1 miles (6.7 km) path. This trail provides views of the Schalkenmehrener Maar and the Weinfelder Maar.
- Local hikers also love the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg – Schalkenmehrener Maar loop from Schalkenmehren, a 3.1 miles (4.9 km) trail leading through forested areas and past the Schalkenmehrener Maar, often completed in about 1 hour 25 minutes.
- Hiking in Dauner Maare is defined by volcanic crater lakes, dense woodlands, and scenic viewpoints. The network offers options for different ability levels, with 40 easy hiking trails available.
- The routes in Dauner Maare are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from nearly 5,000 reviews. More than 18,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Dauner Maare's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
4.7
(160)
650
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(145)
793
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(70)
309
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(66)
263
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(20)
93
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in Dauner Maare
Tips from the Community
Be sure to climb the tower!
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at this point now well hidden behind trees
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Dauner Maare?
The Dauner Maare region offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 40 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails allow you to explore the unique volcanic landscape and serene crater lakes at a comfortable pace.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on an easy hike in Dauner Maare?
Easy hikes in Dauner Maare will lead you through a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity, featuring the famous 'eyes of the Eifel' – the maars. You'll encounter dense woodlands, diverse plant communities, and of course, the stunning crater lakes themselves, such as the Schalkenmehrener Maar and the tranquil Weinfelder Maar.
Are there any viewpoints or landmarks accessible on easy trails?
Yes, several easy trails lead to fantastic viewpoints. For example, the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg – View of the Weinfelder Maar loop from Daun takes you to the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg, offering panoramic views of the maars and the surrounding Eifel landscape. You can also find scenic spots like the View of Totenmaar from the panoramic bench.
Are the easy hiking trails in Dauner Maare suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Many of the easy trails are perfect for families, offering gentle terrain and manageable distances. The varied scenery around the maars provides plenty of interest for younger hikers, and some maars, like the Gemündener Maar, even have facilities for swimming and boating.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Dauner Maare?
Yes, the Dauner Maare region is generally dog-friendly. Most easy hiking trails welcome dogs, but it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas like around the Weinfelder Maar, to protect local wildlife. Always carry water for your dog and dispose of waste properly.
What is the best time of year to go on an easy hike in Dauner Maare?
The Dauner Maare are beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers pleasant temperatures for lakeside activities, and autumn transforms the forests into a spectacle of colors. Even in winter, with appropriate gear, the snow-dusted volcanic landscape can be very picturesque. For easy hikes, spring to autumn generally offer the most comfortable conditions.
Are there circular easy hiking routes available?
Yes, many of the easy trails in Dauner Maare are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the View of Schalkenmehren – Weinfelder Maar viewpoint loop from Schalkenmehren, which offers continuous scenic views.
Where can I find parking for easy hiking trails in Dauner Maare?
Parking is generally available near the starting points of many popular trails, especially in towns like Daun and Schalkenmehren. Look for designated parking areas close to the maars or trailheads. Some routes, like those starting from Schalkenmehren, often have convenient access to parking.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Dauner Maare?
The easy trails in Dauner Maare are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from nearly 5,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning lake views, and the peaceful atmosphere of the volcanic landscape.
Are there any easy hikes that offer direct views of the maars?
Absolutely. Many easy routes are specifically designed to showcase the maars. For instance, the View of Schalkenmehren – Weinfelder Maar viewpoint loop from Schalkenmehren provides excellent views of both the Schalkenmehrener Maar and the Weinfelder Maar. Another option is the Weinfelder Maar viewpoint – Path along the Weinfelder Maar loop from Schalkenmehren, which offers close-up perspectives of the Weinfelder Maar.
What is the typical elevation gain on easy hikes in Dauner Maare?
Easy hikes in Dauner Maare typically feature moderate elevation changes, making them accessible for most fitness levels. For example, routes like the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg – Schalkenmehrener Maar loop from Schalkenmehren have an elevation gain of around 120-130 meters over several kilometers, providing gentle ascents to viewpoints without being overly strenuous.
Are there places to eat or drink near the easy hiking trails?
Yes, the towns and villages surrounding the Dauner Maare, such as Daun and Schalkenmehren, offer various cafes, restaurants, and guesthouses. The Schalkenmehrener Maar, in particular, is known for having hotels and a popular natural lido with modern facilities nearby, perfect for a break after your hike.
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