Best lakes around Birgel are found within the Eifel region, which offers access to diverse aquatic landscapes. The area is known for its volcanic crater lakes, called Maare, and various reservoirs. These natural features provide opportunities for recreation and exploration. The region's geology and natural environment make it a notable destination for lake visitors.
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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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 Landal campsite near Stadtkyll appears on the internet as if its world were all right. But she isn't here either. The place is closed. No info anywhere. Drowned meadows, torn power lines... We look for a secluded spot and camp free of charge on the closed site. There are well-occupied fixed camper sites above the camping meadows, so a wash house is open. The associated restaurant is publicly located on the street and so the evening meal is guaranteed. Everything good? Starry sky, suddenly it gets cold at the pond where we are still sitting in the evening. The course is almost 500 meters above sea level. Off to the tent. The coldest night of the journey is upon us. Klausen's sleeping bag corner in the tent draws water out of the ground. I put on almost all my clothes, so to speak, the entire onion, during the night, sit in the overheated toilet for a while and don't think ungratefully about this enormous waste of energy. And about light pollution; the closed square is brightly outshined by the light of the lanterns all night long. Despite it. All good." https://www.komoot.de/tour/777211898
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Near Birgel, you'll discover a diverse range of lakes, primarily volcanic crater lakes known as Maare, and various man-made reservoirs. The Eifel region is famous for its unique geological formations, offering both natural wonders and recreational waters.
For swimming and water sports, Kronenburger See is an excellent choice, offering a large swimming area, boat rentals, and facilities for sailing and surfing. Other great options include Laacher See, Gemündener Maar, and Pulvermaar, all of which permit bathing and offer clear waters for a refreshing dip.
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. Kronenburger See features a children's playground and sunbathing lawns. The Dahlem Moor Boardwalk provides an easy, educational walk through wetlands, suitable for families. Many of the Maare, like Gemündener Maar and Pulvermaar, have outdoor pools and sunbathing areas perfect for a family day out.
Absolutely. The region offers numerous hiking opportunities around its lakes. For instance, a scenic circular path allows visitors to walk around Gemündener Maar. The Eichholzmaar is surrounded by paths ideal for starting a hike. You can find more hiking routes in the area by visiting the Hiking around Birgel guide.
Laacher See is the largest lake in Rhineland-Palatinate and a significant natural landmark of volcanic origin. It's a crater lake formed by a massive eruption around 13,000 years ago, with visible traces of its volcanic past in the form of 'mofettes' (carbon dioxide bubbles) on its southeastern shore. The historic Benedictine Maria Laach Abbey also sits on its shores, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage.
For a peaceful picnic, the Jünkerath Reservoir is a small, quiet lake fed by the Birbach, offering a lovely spot to relax. The Müllenborn Pond is another picturesque and somewhat hidden gem, perfect for enjoying mindful moments by the water.
Yes, the Dahlem Moor Boardwalk is noted for its accessibility, with disabled parking available and wooden planks making it easy to navigate through the unique wetlands. This trail is suitable for prams and wheelchairs, offering a chance to experience nature up close.
The Eifel Maare are rich in geological features. At Laacher See, you can see 'mofettes' where carbon dioxide bubbles up from the volcanic past. Around Meerfelder Maar, you might find olivine bombs, which are rocks ejected during the Meerfeld volcano's eruption, offering a direct glimpse into the region's explosive history.
At Kronenburger See, dogs are permitted on a leash in most areas, though there are designated no-dog zones. It's always advisable to check local regulations for specific lakes and trails, as rules can vary, especially in nature reserves.
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse natural beauty, from the unique volcanic landscapes of the Maare to the tranquil reservoirs. The opportunities for various outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and cycling are highly appreciated. The region's blend of natural wonders and historical sites, such as Maria Laach Abbey, also adds to the appeal, as evidenced by over 800 upvotes and photos shared by the komoot community.
Yes, the area around Birgel offers various cycling routes that pass by or near several lakes. You can find both mountain biking and road cycling options. For detailed routes, explore the MTB Trails around Birgel guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Birgel guide.
The Eifel Maare are beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming and water sports. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the vibrant natural scenery, with fewer crowds. Winter can be serene for quiet walks, though some facilities may have reduced hours.


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