Best lakes around Hohenfels-Essingen are primarily volcanic maars, characteristic of the Eifel region's geological history. While no large lakes are directly within the municipality, the area is known for its unique volcanic landscape and accessible water bodies. These maars offer diverse natural features, from deep volcanic craters to scenic ponds, providing opportunities for various outdoor activities. The region's terrain is shaped by its volcanic past, making it a notable area for exploring natural formations.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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To us, such a mill pond, as it presents itself to the viewer here on site – at the Müllenborn hiking parking lot – may seem very ordinary, but in the fantasy world of, for example, Otfried Preußler (1923 to 2013), who became famous for the children's books he wrote, it looks completely different: It is also the habitat of a water sprite family, and his book, still popular today, "The Little Water Sprite" tells of the adventures that the young family members experience in the mill pond. The "Stiftung Lesen" (Reading Foundation) reviews: "The water sprite has invited twenty-seven relatives – and twenty-six have come. Twelve water sprites with their wives, a well sprite and the bridge maiden from the Sankt Nepomuk Bridge! And they have all accepted the invitation because they want to see the little water sprite, of whom the water sprite dad is so proud. And he can be – because the cheeky little rascal can swim as soon as he is born. And he learns everything else faster than his worried parents would like. Sometimes his friend, the thoughtful carp Cyprinus, can only wiggle his fins ... The 1956 children's book classic has already enchanted generations of readers, who, alongside the fantastic adventures of the little water sprite, can also pass on their own childhood memories when reading aloud to children from approx. 5 years of age." (Source: Stiftung Lesen)
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Lake Müllenborn – often called Müllenborner Weiher – is picturesquely located in the Müllenborn district north of Gerolstein and is a real insider tip for Komoot tours. The idyllic expanse of water, surrounded by cool forests, invites you to stroll, picnic, and enjoy mindful moments by the water. A beautiful, approximately 6km circular trail leads around the lake, past the historic millstone ruins and along the Oosbach stream – ideal for quiet explorations away from the hustle and bustle. Around Müllenborn, you'll learn firsthand about the region's volcanic history: Oversized basalt blocks from the former Rother Kopf dominate the forest landscape, and you'll repeatedly encounter springs, small bridges, and the remains of old mills – hence the name "Mühlenborn" (Millsborn). The village itself, with its chapel and baroque houses on the shore, provides a charming, historic setting for the lake. The lake is not open for swimming, but in summer, you'll often find locals cooling off or fishing here; provided you have a valid license. A visit to the Müllenborn Lake Festival in July is particularly atmospheric – with brass bands, a festival tent, and a convivial village atmosphere. Just a few hundred meters away is the comfortable Landhaus Müllenborn, a 4-star country hotel with a spa, sauna, and sauna terrace – perfect for relaxing after the circular hike. The Eifelsteig trail runs nearby, and cyclists can also find connections to regional routes such as the Eifel-Ardennes Cycle Route.
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Lake Müllenborn – often called Müllenborner Weiher – is picturesquely located in the Müllenborn district north of Gerolstein and is a real insider tip for Komoot tours. The idyllic expanse of water, surrounded by cool forests, invites you to stroll, picnic, and enjoy mindful moments by the water. A beautiful, approximately 6km circular trail leads around the lake, past the historic millstone ruins and along the Oosbach stream – ideal for quiet explorations away from the hustle and bustle. Around Müllenborn, you'll learn firsthand about the region's volcanic history: Oversized basalt blocks from the former Rother Kopf dominate the forest landscape, and you'll repeatedly encounter springs, small bridges, and the remains of old mills – hence the name "Mühlenborn" (Millsborn). The village itself, with its chapel and baroque houses on the shore, provides a charming, historic setting for the lake. The lake is not open for swimming, but in summer, you'll often find locals cooling off or fishing here; provided you have a valid license. A visit to the Müllenborn Lake Festival in July is particularly atmospheric – with brass bands, a festival tent, and a convivial village atmosphere. Just a few hundred meters away is the comfortable Landhaus Müllenborn, a 4-star country hotel with a spa, sauna, and sauna terrace – perfect for relaxing after the circular hike. The Eifelsteig trail runs nearby, and cyclists can also find connections to regional routes such as the Eifel-Ardennes Cycle Route.
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The Maubachweiher owes its existence to the steam locomotives: at the end of the 19th century, the former Reichsbahn had the Maubach dammed to form a pond near Boverath. A supply line routed the water to Daun station to "refuel" the steam locomotives. In 2013, as a result of an on-site visit by various authorities with the owner, the water level was to be lowered by two meters. There were safety concerns about the stability of the dam, which is over 100 years old. The further future of the pond is still open.
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In summer a perfect trip to the Maubachweiher
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A section of the Eifelsteig long-distance hiking trail runs right through the Dauner Maare. Very nice path past the witnesses of the volcanic past of the Eifel. https://www.eifelsteig.de/
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The hiking car park and the hiking map with an overview of the various routes are located at the Waldcafe. This is a great place to start your tour and enjoy a coffee at the end.
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The region around Hohenfels-Essingen is characterized by its volcanic past, so you'll primarily find volcanic maars and scenic ponds. These unique formations offer diverse natural features, from deep volcanic craters to tranquil water bodies surrounded by forests.
Yes, swimming is permitted in the Gemündener Maar. It features a natural lido with a diving platform, baby and non-swimmer pools, and sunbathing areas. The Natural swimming pool at Gemündener Maar is a popular family-friendly spot for this.
At Gemündener Maar, you can swim, boat, and fish. There's a natural lido with a diving platform, and the surrounding coniferous and mixed forests are perfect for hiking. You can also enjoy views from the Dronketurm viewpoint or try the 'Maarschaukel'.
Absolutely. The Natural swimming pool at Gemündener Maar is very family-friendly, offering safe swimming areas and a sandbox for children. The Dockweiler Holiday Village and Mill Pond also features a very nice playground.
You can enjoy wonderful walks around the Gemündener Maar, with sections of the Eifelsteig trail offering breathtaking views. A circular trail also leads around Müllenborn Pond, passing historic millstone ruins and the Oosbach stream. For more hiking options, explore the hiking routes around Hohenfels-Essingen.
Yes, the Dronketurm viewpoint provides a unique panorama of both the Gemündener Maar and the neighboring Weinfelder Maar. The 'Maarschaukel' also offers a unique aerial perspective.
Near the Gemündener Maar, you'll find a forest café and a swimming pool, along with sunbathing areas. The Dockweiler Holiday Village and Mill Pond has a modern campsite and a playground. The village of Müllenborn, near Müllenborn Pond, also has charming historic settings and nearby accommodation.
Yes, parking is available at several locations around the Gemündener Maar, including near the forest café and directly at the lido. Parking is also available near Natural swimming pool at Gemündener Maar.
While dogs are generally welcome on trails around the maars, they are unfortunately not allowed in the Natural swimming pool at Gemündener Maar. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding pets in natural areas.
The lakes are beautiful year-round. The surrounding forests make for lovely walks in any season. For swimming and water sports, the summer months are ideal. The Müllenborn Pond also hosts a Lake Festival in July, which is particularly atmospheric.
The maars, like Gemündener Maar, are significant examples of the Eifel's volcanic past, formed by phreatomagmatic eruptions. Müllenborn Pond is surrounded by historic millstone ruins, and Maubachweiher served as a water supply for old steam locomotives and the village.
Yes, the wider Vulkaneifel region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find several touring bicycle and road cycling routes, including those that pass by viewpoints of maars. Explore the cycling routes around Hohenfels-Essingen for detailed options.


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