The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Dauner Maare
4.5
(20270)
68,193
hikers
70
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Dauner Maare are set within Germany's Vulkaneifel region, characterized by its unique volcanic landscapes and crater lakes. The area features "maars," which are volcanic crater lakes formed by steam explosions, earning them the moniker "eyes of the Eifel." The terrain includes rolling hills, dense forests, and river valleys carved by the Lieser River, offering diverse hiking experiences. This geological history, with its density of maars, makes the Vulkaneifel a distinctive hiking destination.
Best family friendly…
Last updated: September 28, 2026
4.7
(606)
2,130
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(36)
158
hikers
26.2km
07:20
510m
510m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(25)
93
hikers
28.9km
08:15
670m
660m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(178)
924
hikers
3.16km
00:50
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(275)
967
hikers
6.97km
02:05
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Wonderfully located, highly recommended.
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But with a great natural swimming area and super water quality.
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Numerous legends surround the quiet Totenmaar. According to one legend, a castle once stood at this spot, inhabited by a benevolent count with his servants, his hard-hearted wife, and their only child. One day, the count returned home from the hunt and found only a lake where his castle had stood. It had sunk into the earth with all its inhabitants, leaving behind a lake, the Totenmaar. As if by a miracle, a cradle appeared on the surface, in which his child drifted safely to shore. The count's horse dug out a spring from the ground during an exclamation by its master. The count later built a chapel out of gratitude for his child's rescue, which, like the spring, is still preserved today. Das Weinfelder Maar 1878 (Die Gartenlaube) The Eifel painter Richard Franzen from Mehren dedicated the following poem to this maar: Droben steht noch die Kapelle, hier im schönen Eifelland, wo vor ein paar hundert Jahren einst das Dörfchen Weinfeld stand. Pest und Armut, schlechte Zeiten, zwang die Menschen in der Not, ihre Heimstatt zu verlassen, letzter Zug im Abendrot. Doch nach Weinfeld kehren wieder Stille Schläfer Jahr für Jahr, um für immer auszuruhen auf dem Berg am Totenmaar
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The urge to "immerse oneself in nature" is not a modern trend that we humans of the 21st century are letting ourselves be led into – for example, with the komoot tour planner – but is based on much older behaviors and the ancient knowledge that it simply does good. Already in a "little book of reminders" written by Peter Rosegger (1843 to 1918), the exhortation reads: "We must once again properly bring out our healthy limbs and immerse ourselves in nature, rediscovering within ourselves the lost strengths that are ours. That... makes you fresh, makes you strong, and makes you wise. You learn a lot from it, especially how to live simply and become cheerful."
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„Birds are singing, flowers are blooming, green is again the forest and the field. Oh, let us go and wander from one place to another through the wide, green world!“ (Hoffmann von Fallersleben)
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All hikers / walkers, who are enjoying this view that presents itself to the eye here, I would like to invite with the words of the writer Otto Wilhelm Ullmann to discover the world (and with it the beauty of nature): "Hiking means discovering the world, finding hidden corners, in old alleys, quiet spots feeling the bliss of peace, raising reverence for the old and nurturing the heritage of the fathers, awakening joy from the smallest things: Hiking means discovering the world."
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The "Heimatspur Maareglück", which hikers/walkers repeatedly encounter in the vicinity of the Totenmaar, the Schalkenmehrener Maar, and the Gemündener Maar - or perhaps even follow - is in the final for the election of the most beautiful hiking trail in Germany (2026). Those who still want to vote by June 30 can find the virtual voting booth at =>> https://wandermagazin.de/wahlstudio
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Dauner Maare?
The Dauner Maare region offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families, with over 40 easy and 20 moderate hiking trails. These paths are designed to accommodate various fitness levels, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Are there circular routes suitable for families in Dauner Maare?
Yes, many family-friendly routes in Dauner Maare are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the Schalkenmehrener Maar – View of the Weinfelder Maar loop from Schalkenmehren, which offers beautiful views of the maars.
What natural features and landmarks can families explore along the trails?
Families can discover the unique volcanic landscapes, especially the stunning crater lakes known as 'maars.' Key highlights include the Schalkenmehrener Maar and the View of the Gemünden maar. For panoramic views, consider a hike that includes the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg.
Are dogs allowed on family-friendly hikes in Dauner Maare?
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in Dauner Maare, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific trail regulations or nature reserve rules, especially around sensitive areas like the Weinfelder Maar, which is a nature conservation area.
What is the best time of year for family hiking in Dauner Maare?
Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for family hikes in Dauner Maare. In spring, the landscape awakens with lush greenery, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Summer is also pleasant, with opportunities for swimming in the Gemündener and Schalkenmehrener Maare. Winter can be charming for a quiet walk, but some services might be limited.
What kind of distances and durations can we expect for family hikes?
Family-friendly hikes in Dauner Maare vary in length and duration. You can find shorter, easy strolls around the maars, typically a few kilometers long and taking 1-2 hours. Moderate routes, like the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg – Schalkenmehrener Maar loop from Schalkenmehren, can be around 9-10 km and take 3-4 hours, offering a good balance of activity and exploration.
Are there places to eat or rest along the family trails?
Yes, you'll find various cafes and restaurants in the towns surrounding the maars, such as Daun and Schalkenmehren. Some trails may also pass by picnic areas or benches where families can take a break and enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.
What makes the Dauner Maare unique for family hiking?
The Dauner Maare region is unique due to its 'eyes of the Eifel' – the volcanic crater lakes. Hiking here offers a fascinating blend of geological history, serene lake views, and diverse forests, providing an educational and engaging experience for all ages. The well-maintained paths and varied terrain ensure there's always something new to discover.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Dauner Maare?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning views of the maars, the well-marked and diverse trails, and the peaceful atmosphere. The combination of natural beauty and accessible paths makes it a favorite for families.
Is it possible to access family-friendly trails using public transport, or is parking available?
Many trailheads in the Dauner Maare region are accessible by public transport, particularly buses connecting the main towns. Additionally, ample parking is usually available near popular starting points for hikes, especially in towns like Daun and Schalkenmehren, making it convenient for families traveling by car.
Are there any trails suitable for strollers or very young children?
While many trails are well-maintained, not all are suitable for strollers due to varying terrain and elevation changes. For very young children or strollers, look for flatter, paved, or very smooth gravel paths, often found directly around the edges of the larger maars or in town parks. Always check the specific trail description for accessibility details.
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