Best lakes around Hörschhausen are found within the surrounding volcanic Eifel region of Germany. While Hörschhausen itself does not feature major lakes directly, the area is known for its impressive volcanic landscapes and accessible crater lakes. These unique geological formations offer diverse natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities. The region provides insights into the volcanic history of the Eifel, making it a destination for nature enthusiasts.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
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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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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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Nice view with markers for orientation. The tower, which was built in 1902, is only 11m high, but stands on top of the 560m high Mauseberg and is thus 166m above the Gemünder Maar, guaranteeing a magnificent view of the surrounding area.
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Beautiful view with an information board for orientation. The tower, built in 1902, is only eleven meters high, but stands at the top of the 560-meter-high Mäuseberg and is thus 166 meters above the Gemünder Maar. This guarantees a magnificent view over the surrounding area.
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The lakes around Hörschhausen are primarily volcanic crater lakes, known as Maars, located within the Eifel region. These unique geological formations offer diverse natural beauty, from serene waters to surrounding forested hills, and provide insights into the area's volcanic history.
Yes, the Gemündener Maar is ideal for swimming and offers boat rentals. It also features a forest café and a diving platform for those looking for more adventure.
The Schalkenmehrener Maar offers a very beautiful circular path around its perimeter. Similarly, the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) has a nearly two-kilometer-long path perfect for exploring on foot, though swimming is not permitted there.
Many of the Maars are family-friendly. Both the Gemündener Maar and Schalkenmehrener Maar are noted as family-friendly, offering activities like swimming, boating, and easy walks.
Near the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar), you can find a historic cemetery and a small chapel, some of which dates from the 14th century. This chapel was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld. Further afield, the Benedictine Maria Laach Abbey is a significant Romanesque abbey located on the southwestern shore of Lake Laach, offering a rich cultural experience.
The region around Hörschhausen offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, such as the 'Weinfelder Maar viewpoint – View of the Schalkenmehrener Maar loop', or explore running trails like the 'Observation Tower Vulkaneifel – Grüner Weiher loop'. For mountain biking, options like the 'Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg – View of the Weinfelder Maar loop' are available. You can find more details on these activities in the cycling guide, running guide, and MTB guide for Hörschhausen.
Yes, Lake Laach, a significant regional lake, is known for its volcanic origin. Visitors can observe ongoing volcanic activity through gas escaping from the lakebed, particularly on its southeastern shore, adding a fascinating geological dimension to a visit.
The village of Schalkmehren, located south of the Schalkenmehrener Maar, offers places to stop for refreshments. Additionally, the Gemündener Maar has a forest café right by the lake.
Visitors appreciate the unique volcanic landscapes and the serene environment of the Maars. Many enjoy the beautiful circular paths, the opportunities for swimming and boating at lakes like the Gemündener Maar, and the historical context provided by sites such as the chapel near the Weinfelder Maar. The komoot community has shared over 790 photos and given more than 3500 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.
Yes, for the Weinfelder Maar, guests can park along the L64 either in the designated parking lot or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar.
While specific dog-friendly rules vary by location, the natural trails and circular paths around the Maars are generally suitable for walks with dogs. However, always check local signage for any restrictions, especially in nature reserve areas or around swimming zones.
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and ideal conditions for swimming and boating. Autumn provides stunning foliage for hiking, while winter can offer peaceful, scenic walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.


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