Top 20 Lakes around Schutz
Best lakes around Schutz are primarily the distinctive "Maare" – volcanic crater lakes – found in the Vulkaneifel district of Germany. This region is known for its unique geological history, offering natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The maars are a testament to the region's volcanic past, forming picturesque landscapes often referred to as the "eyes of the Eifel." These lakes provide diverse outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and water sports.
Best lakes around Schutz
- The most popular lakes is Schalkenmehrener Maar, a lake that is the southernmost and largest of the three Dauner Maars. It is a double maar, consisting of a western maar lake and an eastern dry maar, and is a popular spot for swimming.
- Another must-see spot is View of the Gemünden maar, a lake that is the smallest of the three Daun Maars, nestled about 100 meters lower than the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy swimming in an outdoor pool and boating, with a scenic circular path.
- Visitors also love View of the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar), a lake also known as "Totenmaar" (Lake of the Dead), notable for its depth of 51 meters and a diameter of around 525 meters. It is surrounded by a tuff wall and features a small chapel and cemetery on its north bank.
- Schutz is known for its volcanic crater lakes, including the Dauner Maare (Gemündener Maar, Weinfelder Maar, Schalkenmehrener Maar), Pulvermaar, and Meerfelder Maar. These lakes offer a variety of natural settings, from deep waters to tranquil, idyllic spots.
- The lakes around Schutz are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3500 upvotes and over 790 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 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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Weinfelder Maar viewpoint
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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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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 encounters 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 Schalkenmehrener 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 Dauner 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 quiet 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 struck by the plague in the 16th century. Anyone who makes the bells inside ring 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 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: Visitors 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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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Schutz unique?
The lakes around Schutz are primarily distinctive "Maare" – volcanic crater lakes – formed by ancient volcanic explosions. This geological history gives them a unique circular shape, often framed by wooded slopes, earning them the nickname "eyes of the Eifel." They offer exceptional natural beauty and are a testament to the region's volcanic past.
Which lakes are best for swimming and water activities?
For swimming and water activities, consider the Gemündener Maar, which features an outdoor pool and opportunities for boating. The Schalkenmehrener Maar is also a popular spot for swimming. Additionally, Pulvermaar boasts the largest water surface and a natural swimming pool suitable for all ages.
Are there good hiking opportunities around the lakes near Schutz?
Yes, the Vulkaneifel Nature Park, where these lakes are located, offers numerous hiking trails. You can find scenic circular paths around many maars, including the Gemündener Maar and Schalkenmehrener Maar. Long-distance trails like the Eifelsteig and Lieserpfad also traverse the region. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Schutz guide.
Can I go cycling near the lakes in Schutz?
Absolutely. The region offers excellent cycling opportunities, with routes like the Kosmos-Radweg and sections of the Trailpark Vulkaneifel passing directly through Schutz. You can find various road cycling and gravel biking routes in the area. Check out the Road Cycling Routes around Schutz and Gravel biking around Schutz guides for detailed tours.
Which lakes are suitable for families with children?
Several lakes are family-friendly. The Gemündener Maar offers an outdoor pool and boating, while the Schalkenmehrener Maar is popular for swimming. Pulvermaar also has a natural swimming pool suitable for non-swimmers and young children, making it a great choice for families.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) is notable for its small chapel and cemetery on its north bank, which dates back to the 14th century and was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld. The Eifel region also offers museums like the Lava-Dome and Eifel-Vulkanmuseum for insight into the volcanic history.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Schutz?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time for outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and cycling is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is mild and most facilities are open. Winter offers a different, tranquil beauty, though some activities may be limited.
Are there easy walking paths around the lakes?
Yes, many of the maars feature easy, scenic circular paths. For instance, the Gemündener Maar has a beautiful circular path, and the Schalkenmehrener Maar also offers a very pleasant circular route suitable for leisurely walks.
Can I find cafes or refreshments near the lakes?
Yes, at the Gemündener Maar, there is a forest café near the car park. The village of Schalkenmehren, located south of the Schalkenmehrener Maar, also offers places to stop for refreshments.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Schutz?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the unique volcanic landscapes. The clear waters and tranquil settings are often highlighted. Many appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities, from swimming and boating to hiking and cycling, and the well-maintained paths around the maars.
Is there parking available at the lakes?
Yes, parking is generally available. For example, at the Gemündener Maar, there is a car park. For the Weinfelder Maar, guests can park along the L64 at the Maar or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder and Schalkenmehrener Maars.
Are dogs allowed on trails around the lakes?
While specific regulations can vary, many natural areas in the Vulkaneifel are dog-friendly, especially on marked hiking trails. It's generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Always check local signage for specific rules at each lake.
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