Lakes around Oberbettingen are primarily characterized by the unique maars of the Volcanic Eifel region. These volcanic crater lakes are a defining feature of the landscape, showcasing the area's geological past. The region offers diverse natural settings for exploration and recreation. Visitors can find various types of water bodies, from renatured maars to reservoirs.
Last updated: May 14, 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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children's playground
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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 lakes around Oberbettingen are primarily characterized by the unique 'maars' of the Volcanic Eifel region. These are volcanic crater lakes, such as Pulvermaar and Schalkenmehrener Maar, which are a defining feature of the landscape. You can also find renatured maars like Eichholzmaar and smaller reservoirs like Jünkerath Reservoir.
Yes, the region is famous for its 'maars,' which are volcanic crater lakes formed by explosive volcanic activity. The Meerfelder Maar, for instance, is nestled within the largest maar crater in the Eifel and reveals fascinating 'olivine bombs,' rocks ejected during its formation. The Ulmener Maar is notable as the site of Germany's last volcanic eruption, making it the youngest of the Eifel maars.
Many lakes in the area are family-friendly. Eichholzmaar is a nature reserve with paths suitable for walks. Jünkerath Reservoir and Müllenborn Pond also offer pleasant settings for families. The Gemündener Maar, while not listed in the guide, features a forest café and swimming pool with a diving platform, making it a great option for families.
Yes, several maars in the Volcanic Eifel are popular for swimming. Pulvermaar, Schalkenmehrener Maar, and Meerfelder Maar are all excellent choices for natural swimming. The Gemündener Maar also has a dedicated swimming pool area. However, some lakes like Müllenborn Pond are not open for swimming.
Absolutely. The lakes are surrounded by numerous hiking trails. Eichholzmaar has many paths around the maar, ideal for a hike. A beautiful circular trail leads around Müllenborn Pond, passing historic millstone ruins. The MaareGlück circular route provides access to the Gemündener Maar. For more options, you can explore the Running Trails around Oberbettingen guide, which includes routes like the 'Die Büdden bei Oberbettingen loop'.
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming and enjoying outdoor activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the vibrant colors of nature. Some lakes, like the Three Small Ponds, may dry up in summer, so spring is better for seeing them with water.
Yes, Eichholzmaar is a designated nature reserve with many bird observation posts. After its renaturation, it became home to various water birds and reptiles, making it an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
For a tranquil experience, the Meerfelder Maar offers an idyllic setting. Jünkerath Reservoir is described as a very nice place to relax, with benches inviting visitors to take a break. The Trautzberger Maar, surrounded by flower-covered meadows, also provides peaceful views from a nearby bench.
Yes, Jünkerath Reservoir has benches for breaks. The Gemündener Maar features a forest café. Additionally, the village of Schalkmehren near Schalkenmehrener Maar offers refreshments. For accommodation, the Landhaus Müllenborn, a 4-star hotel, is just a few hundred meters from Müllenborn Pond.
Many of the maars offer stunning viewpoints due to their volcanic origins. The circular path around Schalkenmehrener Maar provides scenic views. Eichholzmaar, Jünkerath Reservoir, and Müllenborn Pond are also noted for their picturesque settings and viewpoints.
Yes, the Volcanic Eifel region offers various cycling opportunities. While not directly adjacent to every lake, the area has routes like those found in the Road Cycling Routes around Oberbettingen guide, such as the 'Kyll River Path in Gerolstein' loop. For off-road adventures, consider the Gravel biking around Oberbettingen guide, which includes a route passing by Eichholzmaar.
Visitors appreciate the unique natural beauty and tranquility of the maars. Many enjoy the opportunities for hiking, relaxing by the water, and observing wildlife. The geological history of the region, evident in the volcanic crater lakes, is also a significant draw for those interested in nature and geology.


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