Top 20 Lakes around Utzerath
Best lakes around Utzerath are primarily unique volcanic lakes, known as Maars, situated in Germany's Vulkaneifel region. These natural formations were created approximately 10,000 years ago by volcanic steam explosions, resulting in deep craters that subsequently filled with water. The area is characterized by its distinctive geological history and offers various recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore these ancient volcanic landscapes and their surrounding trails.
Best lakes around Utzerath
- The most popular lakes is Schalkenmehrener Maar, a lake that is…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
View of the Gemünden maar
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Schalkenmehrener Maar
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View of the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar)
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View of Totenmaar from the panoramic bench
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Weinfelder Maar viewpoint
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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Utzerath unique?
The lakes around Utzerath are unique volcanic lakes, known as Maars, located in Germany's Vulkaneifel region. These natural formations were created approximately 10,000 years ago by volcanic steam explosions, leaving deep craters that subsequently filled with water. They offer a distinctive geological history and stunning natural scenery.
Can I swim in the lakes near Utzerath?
Yes, you can swim in some of the lakes. The Gemündener Maar is highly regarded for swimming, offering an outdoor swimming pool, a sunny bathing area, and even a diving platform. However, swimming and other water sports are prohibited in the Weinfelder Maar due to its protected unique flora and fauna.
Are there family-friendly activities at the lakes?
Absolutely. The Gemündener Maar is particularly family-friendly, with an outdoor swimming pool, boat rentals, and a bathing area. Many of the circular paths around the Maars, such as the one around Schalkenmehrener Maar, are also suitable for families looking for easy walks.
What hiking opportunities are available around the Maars?
The Vulkaneifel region offers extensive hiking opportunities around its Maars. You can find numerous trails accessible from car parks, such as those near the Gemündener Maar. A section of the Eifelsteig long-distance hiking trail also runs through the Dauner Maare. For more specific routes, you can explore running trails in the area via the Running Trails around Utzerath guide.
Are there specific trails around the Schalkenmehrener Maar?
Yes, the Schalkenmehrener Maar features a very beautiful scenic circular path that allows you to explore its waters. This maar is the southernmost and largest of the three Dauner Maars and is a rare double maar.
What is the Weinfelder Maar, also known as Totenmaar, known for?
The Weinfelder Maar, also called Totenmaar, is known for its melancholic atmosphere and rich history. Its name 'Totenmaar' comes from the historic cemetery and a small chapel, some of which dates from the 14th century, located near its banks. Legends surround the lake, and it was a favorite motif for German landscape painter Fritz von Wille. While swimming is prohibited, a nearly two-kilometer-long path allows for exploration on foot.
Are there cafes or places for refreshments near the lakes?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. At the Gemündener Maar, you'll find a forest café conveniently located near a car park. Additionally, the village of Schalkmehren, situated to the south of the Schalkenmehrener Maar, offers places to stop for refreshments.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
Beyond hiking, the region around Utzerath offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy gravel biking, with routes like the 'Ulmener Maar – Ulmener Maar Tunnel loop', detailed in the Gravel biking around Utzerath guide. Cycling is also popular, with routes such as 'Weinfelder Maar viewpoint – View of the Schalkenmehrener Maar loop' available in the Cycling around Utzerath guide.
Are the lakes accessible by public transport or is parking available?
While specific public transport details are not provided, parking is generally available. For instance, at the Gemündener Maar, a car park provides access to the forest café and hiking trails. For the Weinfelder Maar, guests can park along the L64 at the Maar itself or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder and Schalkenmehrener Maars.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Utzerath?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for swimming and boating activities at the Gemündener Maar and for enjoying the lush green landscapes. Autumn offers stunning foliage for hikers, while winter can provide serene, quiet walks around the frozen Maars, though specific winter activities are not detailed.
What is the Laacher See, and how does it differ from the Daun Maars?
The Laacher See is the largest and youngest caldera lake in the Vulkaneifel region, located near the abbey of Maria Laach. While also a volcanic lake, it is generally larger than the individual Daun Maars (Gemündener, Weinfelder, and Schalkenmehrener Maars), which are typically smaller, distinct crater lakes formed by steam explosions.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints of the lakes?
Many of the Maars offer excellent viewpoints. The Gemündener Maar is known for its picturesque views. For the Weinfelder Maar, there are dedicated viewpoints, including a panoramic bench (View of Totenmaar from the panoramic bench) and a general Weinfelder Maar viewpoint, offering expansive vistas of the lake and its surroundings.
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