Lakes around Hillesheim are a prominent feature of the Vulkaneifel region, an area shaped by ancient volcanic activity. This landscape is characterized by distinctive volcanic lakes, known as maars, which offer unique natural beauty. Hillesheim is situated within the Gerolsteiner Land, providing access to these water-filled craters that are ideal for exploration and outdoor activities. The region's geological history has created a diverse environment for visitors to discover.
Last updated: June 26, 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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children's playground
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I don't really understand what it is. It's run by an association of the Catholic Church. There are beautiful old buildings, but also more modern functional buildings. There's also a farm shop and a nice sports field. I was here once and didn't see a soul, but today there are endless people.
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At the beginning of the 20th century, the village priest bred trout in the maar, which was around 100,000 years old. In the 1920s the water was drained and its quickly overgrown, fertile ground was used as a viewing area. 80 years later, scientists proved that this was a silted maar. During a core drilling, 23 m of animals found tuff remains from the Laacher See eruption 13,000 years ago. In addition, the funnel lies on a geological fault line that runs from northwest to southeast. The renatured maar is around 120 meters in diameter and offers a biotope for numerous birds. When the maar was revived from 2007, the Oosbach was dammed. Source: 111 places in the Eifel that you have to see Further information: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eichholzmaar
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Idyllic lake in the middle of the forest. Swimming is clearly allowed here, as the sign on the shore makes clear. Clear recommendation to swim and linger. The peaceful coexistence between swimmers and anglers is noticeable🐟🕊️🏊♂️
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This is not a bathing lake, but a fishing lake, operated by the Jünkerath fishing club. Fishing permits can be purchased for use for fishing: You can get the corresponding daily or weekly tickets at the following points of sale: Rupp petrol station, Kölner Straße 20, 54589 Jünkerath Tel: 06597 2160 ARAL gas station linen, Auelstr. 27-29, 54589 Stadtkyll Tel: 06597 961106 Schuhhaus Dederichs, Neuer Weg 1, 53949 Kronenburg Tel: 06557 93083 On an area of one hectare and surrounded by idyllic nature, you can spend a wonderful day here with the whole family.
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The Vulkaneifel region near Hillesheim is known for its unique volcanic lakes, called maars. Among the most popular are the three Daun Maars: Schalkenmehrener Maar, Gemündener Maar, and Weinfelder Maar. Other highly regarded spots include Eichholzmaar, known for its nature reserve, and Pulvermaar, one of the deepest and best-preserved maars in the Eifel.
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. The Gemündener Maar offers an outdoor pool, a large sunbathing area, boat rentals, and facilities for children including a baby pool and sandbox. Eichholzmaar is a tranquil nature reserve perfect for birdwatching, and Jünkerath Reservoir provides a nice spot for picnics with benches.
For swimming, Schalkenmehrener Maar and Gemündener Maar are popular choices, both offering natural open-air pools and boat rentals. Pulvermaar is also an excellent destination for swimming and diving due to its pristine water quality, featuring a natural swimming pool with a diving tower and boat rentals. Swimming is generally prohibited at Weinfelder Maar to protect its natural environment.
Absolutely. Many lakes offer well-maintained circular trails. You can enjoy tranquil hikes around the Weinfelder Maar, or explore the network of trails encircling Pulvermaar, which provide stunning views. Eichholzmaar has a circular trail and is integrated into longer routes like the 'Vulkanpfad'. For more extensive hiking options, you can explore routes in the wider region, such as those found in the Hiking around Hillesheim guide.
The lakes around Hillesheim are primarily volcanic maars, which are unique water-filled craters. You can observe diverse animal and plant species, especially at nature reserves like Eichholzmaar, which is a vital refuge for rare waterfowl and reptiles. Pulvermaar is notable for its almost perfectly circular shape and steep inner slopes, a testament to its volcanic origins.
Yes, the Weinfelder Maar, also known as Totenmaar, features an old chapel dedicated to St. Martin on its north bank, which was once the parish church of a village that succumbed to the plague. The surrounding cemetery is still maintained, adding to the maar's melancholic atmosphere and historical significance. The Clemens-Josef House, chapel and Vellerhof pond also offers a historical ensemble of buildings.
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Summer is ideal for swimming and boating at spots like Schalkenmehrener Maar and Gemündener Maar. Spring and autumn are perfect for hiking and enjoying the vibrant colors of the surrounding nature. Winter offers tranquil walks, though some facilities might be closed.
Yes, particularly around the more developed maars. Schalkenmehrener Maar has cafes with views of the lake, and you can also find local shops with Eifel specialties in the village of Schalkenmehren. The area around Daun, where Gemündener Maar is located, also offers various dining options.
Yes, Schalkenmehrener Maar has well-maintained cycling paths that provide beautiful views. The wider Vulkaneifel region is generally well-suited for cycling. For more cycling adventures, you can check out the Gravel biking around Hillesheim guide.
Müllenborn Pond, often called Müllenborner Weiher, is an idyllic water expanse surrounded by forests. It features small bridges and a fountain, creating a picturesque setting. A beautiful circular trail of approximately 6km leads around the lake, passing historic millstone ruins and along the Oosbach stream, making it ideal for quiet explorations.
Beyond hiking and swimming, you can enjoy boating at Schalkenmehrener Maar and Pulvermaar. Birdwatching is excellent at Eichholzmaar. Fishing is possible at Jünkerath Reservoir, which is managed by a local fishing club. The region also offers various running trails, which you can find in the Running Trails around Hillesheim guide.
Yes, from the nearby Dronketurm observation tower, visitors can enjoy unique views of both the Gemündener Maar and the neighboring Weinfelder Maar, offering a panoramic perspective of these volcanic lakes.


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