Attractions and Places To See around Laufeld - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Laufeld include a diverse landscape of volcanic maars and historical sites within the Eifel region. This area in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, is known for its unique geological features and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore ancient crater lakes, historic castles, and scenic viewpoints. The region offers a variety of natural and man-made landmarks for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Laufeld
- The most popular attractions is Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg, a…
Last updated: August 16, 2026
Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
View of the Gemünden maar
Highlight • Lake
Showing Translation
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Schalkenmehrener Maar
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
View of the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar)
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Grünewald Viaduct
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Laufeld.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
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
13
0
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
13
0
An absolutely beautiful photo opportunity.
8
1
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.
14
0
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.
19
1
A section of the Eifelsteig long-distance hiking trail runs right through the Dauner Maare. Very nice path past the witnesses of the volcanic past of the Eifel. https://www.eifelsteig.de/
14
0
The hiking car park and the hiking map with an overview of the various routes are located at the Waldcafe. This is a great place to start your tour and enjoy a coffee at the end.
11
0
Very beautiful Maar, more than 100m deep embedded in the "crater", the smallest of the three Dauner Maare offers a beautiful outdoor pool and the opportunity to explore the volcanic lake by boat. The forest café and the starting point for numerous hikes and tours are also located at the car park.
17
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I explore around Laufeld?
The region around Laufeld is famous for its volcanic crater lakes, known as Maare. You can visit the Schalkenmehrener Maar, the largest of the three Dauner Maars, which features a scenic circular path. Another beautiful option is the Gemündener Maar, known for its swimming facilities and forest café. The Meerfelder Maar, the largest maar in the Eifel, also offers stunning natural landscapes for walks.
What historical sites are worth visiting near Laufeld?
Laufeld and its surroundings boast a rich history. You can explore the medieval Manderscheid Castles, comprising the well-preserved Lower Castle and the Upper Castle, nestled in the Lieser valley. Further afield, the fairytale-like Cochem Castle, perched above the Moselle River, offers guided tours and breathtaking views. Don't miss the historic tower of Saint Willibrord's Church in Laufeld, which was once a significant defensive structure.
Are there good hiking opportunities around Laufeld?
Yes, Laufeld is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Numerous trails crisscross the area, including access to the Eifelsteig long-distance hiking trail. Popular routes lead to the Meerfelder Maar and Manderscheid Castle, passing through dense forests and lush pastures. For specific routes, you can explore options like the "Falbachtal Geological Outcrop – Lieser Footbridge (Lieser Path) loop" or the "Laufeld Nature Trail loop" on the Hiking around Laufeld guide.
Can I go cycling near Laufeld?
Absolutely! The Maare-Mosel Cycle Path is an excellent route for cyclists of all experience levels, guiding adventurers along old volcanic maars and featuring highlights like the Grünewald Viaduct. This path is suitable even for inexperienced cyclists and offers various points of interest along the way.
What are the best viewpoints to experience the landscape around Laufeld?
For stunning panoramic views, head to the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg. Accessible via beautiful but steep paths, this tower offers a wonderful vista over the surrounding maars. From its platform, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the wide volcanic landscape of the Eifel, including the Gemündener Maar and Weinfelder Maar.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Laufeld area?
Families will find several engaging options. The Doll and Toy Museum in Laufeld offers a nostalgic glimpse into the past with dolls, toys, and everyday objects from the 1950s. The Gemündener Maar is also very family-friendly, offering swimming facilities, boat rentals, and a diving platform, perfect for a day out.
When is the best time of year to visit Laufeld for outdoor activities?
The best seasons for hiking and exploring the natural beauty around Laufeld are spring and autumn. During these times, nature is at its most vibrant, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn offers stunning colors, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
What kind of cultural heritage does Laufeld have?
Laufeld has a unique cultural heritage, notably the "Laufeld Culture" Burying Ground, an ancient site discovered near the municipality dating back to the Hallstatt times (around 700 BC). This highlights the area's deep historical roots. Additionally, the Himmerod Abbey, a Cistercian monastery with a long history, is another significant cultural site in the vicinity.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Laufeld?
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse landscape, especially the unique volcanic maars and the panoramic views they offer. The combination of natural beauty, like the Schalkenmehrener Maar, and historical landmarks, such as the Manderscheid Castles, provides a rich and varied experience. Many also enjoy the well-maintained circular paths around the maars and the opportunities for active exploration.
Are there any easy walking trails suitable for all abilities near Laufeld?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. The "Laufeld Nature Trail loop" is a great option, offering an educational and immersive natural experience over a distance of about 4.5 km. You can find more easy routes, such as the "Forest path near Wallscheid – Sammetbach Hut loop," in the Easy hikes around Laufeld guide.
Where can I find unique geological formations besides the Maare?
Beyond the well-known Maare, you can explore the Eifel region's broader volcanic landscape. The Elfengrotte (Elf Grotto) is an ingenious cave featuring unique lighting that enhances its beauty, offering a different kind of geological wonder. The Laufeld Educational Nature Path also provides insights into the local forest ecosystem and its geological underpinnings.
Most popular routes around Laufeld
Most popular attractions around Laufeld
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
