Top 20 Natural Monuments around Schalkenmehren
Best natural monuments around Schalkenmehren showcase the unique volcanic landscape of the Eifel region. This area is characterized by its maars, which are volcanic lakes formed by phreatomagmatic explosions. Schalkenmehren is particularly known for the Schalkenmehrener Maar, a significant geological formation. The region offers a blend of natural beauty and geological interest, making it a notable destination for outdoor exploration.
Best natural monuments around Schalkenmehren
- The most popular natural monuments is Schalkenmehrener Maar, a lake that is the largest…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg
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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the natural monuments around Schalkenmehren unique?
The natural monuments in this region are primarily volcanic maars, which are lakes formed by phreatomagmatic explosions. The area is part of the Eifel region, known for its intense volcanic history. For example, the Schalkenmehrener Maar is a rare double maar, featuring both a lake and an elevated bog, showcasing distinct botanical zones and geological significance.
What are the main geological features to explore?
The primary geological features are the maars themselves, which are volcanic crater lakes. You can observe the distinct formations of these maars, such as the Schalkenmehrener Maar, which is a double maar with a western lake and an eastern dry maar that is now an elevated bog. The surrounding tuff walls and the general volcanic landscape also offer insights into the region's fiery past.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments in Schalkenmehren?
The natural monuments around Schalkenmehren are beautiful year-round. Summer is ideal for swimming and boating in maars like the Gemündener Maar. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the vibrant colors of the landscape. Even winter can be picturesque, with opportunities for quiet walks around the frozen maars.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Schalkenmehren?
Yes, several natural monuments are well-suited for families. The Gemündener Maar is particularly popular, offering an outdoor pool and opportunities for boating. The circular path around the Schalkenmehrener Maar is also an easy and enjoyable walk for all ages.
Can I swim in the maars around Schalkenmehren?
Yes, you can swim in some of the maars. The Gemündener Maar has an outdoor pool and is a popular spot for swimming and boating. The Schalkenmehrener Maar also features a natural open-air pool in summer. However, swimming and other water sports are prohibited in the Weinfelder Maar, which is a nature reserve.
Are there good hiking trails around the maars?
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking opportunities. A beautiful circular path surrounds the Schalkenmehrener Maar, perfect for extended walks. The Gemündener Maar is also part of the MaareGlück circular route. For more hiking options, explore the Running Trails around Schalkenmehren guide, which includes routes like the 'Schalkenmehrener Maar – Schalkenmehrener Maar loop'.
What cycling routes are available near the natural monuments?
The area around Schalkenmehren is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes, such as the 'Weinfelder Maar – View of the Schalkenmehrener Maar loop from Daun' which is an easy ride, or more challenging options like the 'View of the Manderscheid Castles – Weinfelder Maar loop from Schalkenmehren'. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Cycling around Schalkenmehren guide.
Are dogs allowed on trails around the natural monuments?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails around the natural monuments, especially on leash. Many paths, like the circular route around the Schalkenmehrener Maar, are suitable for walks with dogs. Always ensure to follow local regulations and clean up after your pet.
Where can I find cafes or pubs near the natural monuments?
The village of Schalkenmehren, located directly south of the Schalkenmehrener Maar, offers several places to stop for refreshments. Near the Gemündener Maar, you'll find a forest café, which is also a starting point for many hikes.
What views can I expect from the viewpoints?
The viewpoints offer panoramic vistas of the volcanic landscape. From the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg, you can enjoy a wonderful view over the maars, including the Gemündener Maar and the Weinfelder Maar. There's also a panoramic bench offering a great view of the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar).
What is the significance of the Weinfelder Maar, also known as Totenmaar?
The Weinfelder Maar, or Totenmaar, is the highest of the three Daun Maars. It holds a melancholic atmosphere and is surrounded by legends. Its name 'Totenmaar' (Dead Maar) comes from the cemetery and a small chapel on its north bank, which was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld, abandoned due to the plague in the 16th century. The area is now a nature reserve, and swimming is prohibited to protect its unique flora and fauna.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the natural monuments?
While primarily known for its natural beauty, the region does have some historical elements. The Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg was erected in 1902 as a memorial to Dr. Adolf Dronke, founder of the Eifel Association. Additionally, the Weinfelder Maar features a historic chapel and cemetery dating back to the 14th century, which adds a cultural layer to the natural landscape.
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