Top 20 Lakes around Neroth
Best lakes around Neroth are found within Germany's Vulkaneifel region, an area characterized by its unique volcanic crater lakes, known as Maare. These geological formations are significant natural attractions located in the vicinity of Daun and Manderscheid. The region's landscape is shaped by its volcanic past, offering diverse natural features for exploration.
Best lakes around Neroth
- The most popular lakes is Schalkenmehrener Maar, a lake that is the largest and southernmost of the three Dauner Maare. It is a…
Last updated: April 20, 2026
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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Meerfelder Maar
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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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The enchanting Meerfelder Maar lies in the middle of the largest Maar funnel in the Eifel. This maar is at least 30,000 years old and takes up about half the space of the maar funnel. The idyllic village of Meerfeld nestles against the steep southern slopes of the other half.
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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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Great view of the Totenmaar and a nice place to take a break.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Neroth unique?
The lakes near Neroth are unique volcanic crater lakes, known as 'Maare,' located in Germany's Vulkaneifel region. These distinctive geological formations were created by powerful volcanic explosions when rising magma met water-bearing rock layers, forming the 'eyes of the Eifel.'
Which are the most popular lakes to visit near Neroth?
The most popular lakes are the Dauner Maare, a trio of volcanic lakes. These include Schalkenmehrener Maar, known for swimming and circular paths; Gemündener Maar, offering swimming and boat rentals; and Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar), a nature reserve with scenic hiking trails.
Can I swim in the lakes near Neroth?
Yes, swimming is permitted in several maars. The Schalkenmehrener Maar and Gemündener Maar both offer natural outdoor pools and sunbathing areas. The Pulvermaar and Meerfelder Maar also have designated swimming areas during warmer months. However, swimming is prohibited in the Weinfelder Maar as it is a nature reserve.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes near Neroth?
Absolutely. Many of the maars feature scenic circular paths. For instance, the Schalkenmehrener Maar has a beautiful circular path, and the Weinfelder Maar offers a nearly two-kilometer-long trail. The Eifelsteig long-distance hiking trail also passes through the Dauner Maare. For more hiking options, you can explore running trails around Neroth.
What is the best time of year to visit the Vulkaneifel maars?
The Vulkaneifel maars are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage or blooming nature. Summer is ideal for swimming and boating activities. Even winter can be charming for tranquil walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are the lakes around Neroth suitable for families and dogs?
Many of the maars are family-friendly, offering activities like swimming, boating, and easy walking paths. Highlights like View of the Gemünden maar and Schalkenmehrener Maar are categorized as family-friendly. Dogs are generally welcome on trails, but always keep them on a leash and check local regulations, especially in nature reserves like the Weinfelder Maar.
Where can I find the best viewpoints of the lakes?
Excellent viewpoints are abundant. The Dronketurm observation tower on the nearby Mäuseberg offers a breathtaking panorama of the Gemündener Maar. The 'Landesblick' viewing platform on the crater rim of the Meerfelder Maar also provides exceptional panoramic views. You can also find great perspectives from the Weinfelder Maar viewpoint.
Are there other notable maars in the Vulkaneifel region besides the Dauner Maare?
Yes, beyond the Dauner Maare, other significant maars include the Meerfelder Maar, which lies within the largest maar crater in the Eifel, and the Pulvermaar, known for having the largest water surface and greatest depth among the Eifel maars. The Ulmener Maar is also notable as the youngest maar in the Eifel.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Besides hiking around the maars, you can enjoy cycling on various routes, including those for cycling around Neroth or gravel biking. Swimming, boating, and fishing are also popular at certain maars. The volcanic landscape is perfect for nature observation and photography.
Is parking available at the Vulkaneifel maars?
Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, at the Weinfelder Maar, guests can park along the L64 at the maar's parking lot or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder and Schalkenmehrener Maars. Many popular maars have designated parking areas nearby to accommodate visitors.
Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments and accommodation. The village of Schalkenmehren, near the Schalkenmehrener Maar, has places to stop for refreshments. The Gemündener Maar also features a forest café. The towns of Daun and Manderscheid, close to many maars, offer various restaurants, cafés, and lodging options.
What is the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) known for?
The Weinfelder Maar, also known as 'Totenmaar' (Dead Man's Maar), is famous for its tranquil, almost melancholic atmosphere and the legends surrounding it, including a sunken castle. It's a nature reserve where swimming is prohibited, but it offers a beautiful two-kilometer hiking path. The small chapel on its north bank, once a parish church, and its associated cemetery contribute to its unique historical and natural significance.
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