Top 20 Natural Monuments around Arbach
Natural monuments around Arbach are characterized by the region's volcanic past in Germany's Vulkaneifel district. This area presents a variety of geological formations, including crater lakes, waterfalls, and volcanic features. The landscape provides diverse natural features for exploration, from serene water bodies to panoramic viewpoints.
Best natural monuments around Arbach
- The most popular natural monuments is The Rausch Waterfall, a waterfall where the Endert river plunges 6 to 7 meters. It offers a refreshing stop during a hike along…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
The Rausch Waterfall
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Boos Eifel Observation Tower
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Boos Lava Bomb
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Ulmener Maar
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Upper Castle of Ulmen
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The Ulmen Maar lies 420 meters above sea level today, covers an area of 5.5 hectares, and is 36 meters deep. The bubbles at the maar's edge demonstrate that volcanism is still active. They bear witness to a turbulent past—but rest assured, there's no eruption in sight! A wall of various rocks and ash, up to 20 meters thick, surrounds the cone. For those interested, these testimonies to this explosive past are beautifully displayed in St. Matthias Church. This unique wall, with its different colored layers and rounded inclusions, is worth seeing for more than just geologists. The slopes of the maar basin are covered with a beautiful forest, which can be explored on a circular walk. A detour to the medieval castle ruins, from which the Crusaders once launched their campaigns, is recommended. The view from the crater rim over the maar and the Eifel beyond will take your breath away. Whether after a sweaty hike or a long drive, the blue of the Ulmer Eifel lake is all too tempting in summer. However, bathing in the maar is prohibited because it is designated as a nature and water protection area.
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The lower castle has completely disappeared. You can still see the beginning of the ring that connected the lower castle and the Ulmen city wall, a two-story outer wall of the palace, as well as a cistern and some foundation walls of other buildings. The old part of Ulmen Castle was built around 1074 AD and likely rests on the remains of a Roman settlement. In the Middle Ages, Ulmen Castle was further expanded and divided into the upper castle, whose remains of the walls still exist, and the lower castle, which extended to the banks of the maar river. Two knightly families lived in the castle, which is believed to have never been attacked or destroyed until 1673 due to its size. Only the Sun King's troops succeeded. It was rebuilt, but fell again in 1689 during the War of the Succession. However, Ulmen Castle was also rebuilt this time, with only the city wall being abandoned. With the invasion of Napoleon's soldiers, Ulmen also became French and later Prussian. The empty castle, whose last descendant died in 1801, was auctioned to a merchant from Cochem, who sold it as a quarry. When a devastating fire burned Ulmen to the ground in the 19th century, the residents of Ulmen rebuilt their houses with stones from the castle. That's why you can still see a coat of arms on some of the stables today. It wasn't until the early twentieth century that Ulmen Castle was declared a listed building and became the property of the municipality of Ulmen. The castle is always freely accessible.
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The Ulmener Maar is small but beautiful. Located in the middle of the Eifel and in the middle of the city, it is a wonderful destination. You can easily combine a walk around the maar with a walk around the neighboring Jungferweiher. Both have recently been connected by the Ulmener Maar tunnel, which runs under the A 48 motorway.
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The egg-shaped ejected particles are 6 cm or larger and deform the layers of earth when impacted. They are clearly visible here on the rock walls.
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A visit is worthwhile both in summer and in winter. However, the Ulmener Maar is a nature reserve, which is why bathing is strictly forbidden here!
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Here the Endertbach falls 7 meters to the valley. The waterfall, the so-called "Rausch", is next to the old mills the most beautiful highlight of our hike through the Enderttal. Really worth seeing.
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The upper castle was built on a slope above the Ulmen maar, while the lower castle (also called lower castle) was adjacent but below it. The exact time of construction is not known, but it is assumed that the upper castle was built around the year 1000. It was first mentioned in a document in 1074. The ruins of the upper castle are owned by the municipality of Ulmen and in 1913 were listed as a historical monument. It is freely accessible and there are regular events on its premises, including an annual medieval market on the last weekend in June. Source: Wikipedia
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Beautiful waterfall in the valley. Nice place to take a break.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural features can I explore around Arbach?
The region around Arbach, nestled in Germany's Vulkaneifel district, is rich in natural features shaped by its volcanic past. You can explore a variety of geological wonders, including serene crater lakes known as Maare, impressive waterfalls like The Rausch Waterfall, and unique volcanic rock formations such as the Boos Lava Bomb. The landscape offers diverse natural beauty, from water bodies to panoramic viewpoints.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments to visit near Arbach?
Yes, several natural monuments around Arbach are ideal for families. The Maare, such as Pulvermaar and Gemündener Maar, offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and boat rentals. The Boos Lava Bomb features explanatory panels that provide insight into geological history, making it an engaging stop for children. The Strohn Volcano House, while a museum, offers interactive exhibits and tangible natural displays like lava bombs, which are great for educational family outings.
Where can I find panoramic views of the Eifel landscape?
For sweeping views of the Eifel, the Boos Eifel Observation Tower is an excellent choice. After ascending 125 steps, you'll be rewarded with expansive vistas of rolling hills and forests. Additionally, the Upper Castle of Ulmen, perched above the Ulmener Maar, offers beautiful views of Ulmen and the surrounding area.
What are the most notable volcanic crater lakes (Maare) in the Arbach area?
The Eifel is famous for its Maare, remnants of explosive volcanic activity. Notable water-filled maars include Pulvermaar, known for its crystal-clear waters and depth, and Gemündener Maar, which is popular for swimming and recreation. The Ulmener Maar is also a significant site, considered one of the youngest Eifel maars, formed around 11,000 years ago and surrounded by a tuff rock wall.
Are there hiking trails near the natural monuments around Arbach?
Absolutely. Many natural monuments are integrated into hiking networks. For instance, The Rausch Waterfall is a highlight along the 'Wild Endert Valley Trail'. The Maare are often encircled by hiking paths, offering scenic circular walks. You can find various hiking routes, including moderate ones, in the area. For more options, explore the Running Trails around Arbach guide, which includes routes like the 'Heilbachsee – Bergkrone Mine Tunnel loop'.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments?
The natural monuments around Arbach can be enjoyed throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for hiking and vibrant natural colors. Summer is ideal for activities at the Maare, such as swimming in Pulvermaar or Gemündener Maar. Even in winter, places like the Boos Lava Bomb and the Eifel Observation Tower can offer unique, tranquil experiences, as noted by visitors who have explored them in colder conditions.
Where can I learn more about the volcanic history of the Eifel region?
To delve deeper into the Eifel's volcanic past, consider visiting the Maarmuseum Manderscheid. It provides extensive information on the formation and significance of the Maare, featuring fossils and interactive exhibits. The Strohn Volcano House also offers an interactive experience to understand the forces that shaped the Eifel, with impressive natural exhibits like a 12,000-year-old lava fissure wall and large lava bombs. You can find more information about the Maarmuseum at rlp-tourismus.com.
Are there cycling routes available near the natural monuments?
Yes, the Arbach region offers various cycling opportunities that can take you past natural monuments. For example, you can find routes that incorporate the Ulmener Maar. For detailed cycling routes, including gravel biking and general cycling, refer to the Gravel biking around Arbach and Cycling around Arbach guides. These guides list routes with varying difficulty levels, such as the 'Ulmener Maar – Ulmener Maar Tunnel loop'.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the natural monuments around Arbach?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the geological insights offered by the region. Many appreciate the refreshing stop at The Rausch Waterfall during a hike, and the impressive views from the Boos Eifel Observation Tower. The educational aspect of sites like the Boos Lava Bomb, with its explanatory panels, is also highly valued for understanding the earth's history.
Can I visit historical sites in conjunction with natural monuments?
Yes, the region often blends natural beauty with historical significance. For example, the Upper Castle of Ulmen, a historical ruin, is situated next to the Ulmener Maar, offering both historical exploration and natural views. Similarly, the Löwenburg Ruins in Monreal, while historical, provide 'gigantic views' of the Elzbach valley, making the natural setting an integral part of the experience.
Are there any less crowded natural monuments to visit for a quieter experience?
While popular sites like Pulvermaar can attract visitors, exploring some of the smaller or less accessible maars, or venturing onto less-traveled hiking paths, can offer a quieter experience. The region has over 70 maars identified, with many now bogs or dry depressions, which can provide serene natural exploration away from the main tourist spots. The path to the Boos Eifel Observation Tower, for instance, winds mostly through the forest, offering tranquil sections.
What kind of wildlife can be observed around the natural monuments?
The diverse habitats around Arbach, particularly the Maare and forested areas, support various wildlife. The northern part of the Jungferweiher (a silted-up maar near Ulmener Maar) is a bird sanctuary where rare and endangered birds can be observed. The lakes are also known for their fish abundance, attracting anglers. Forested areas provide habitats for typical Eifel fauna, though specific sightings depend on luck and observation skills.
Most popular attractions around Arbach
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