Top 17 Lakes around Hillesheim
Lakes around Hillesheim are a prominent feature of the Vulkaneifel region, an area shaped by ancient volcanic activity. This landscape is characterized by distinctive volcanic lakes, known as maars, which offer unique natural beauty. Hillesheim is situated within the Gerolsteiner Land, providing access to these water-filled craters that are ideal for exploration and outdoor activities. The region's geological history has created a diverse environment for visitors to discover.
Best lakes around Hillesheim
- The most popular lakes is Eichholzmaar, a lake that functions as a nature reserve with bird observation posts. This maar is one of the smaller Eifelmaars, with a diameter of about 120 meters and a maximum depth of 3 meters.
- Another must-see spot is Jünkerath Reservoir, a lake suitable for picnics. Visitors can find two benches on the embankment for breaks and it is managed by a local fishing club.
- Visitors also love Müllenborn Pond, a lake located in the Müllenborn district north of Gerolstein. This idyllic water expanse is surrounded by forests and features small bridges and a fountain.
- Hillesheim is known for its volcanic lakes, also called maars, and reservoirs. The region offers a variety of water bodies to see and explore, each with distinct characteristics and surrounding landscapes.
- The lakes around Hillesheim are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 390 upvotes and over 390 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
Eichholzmaar
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Gerolstein Reservoir
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Bolsdorf Valley Biotopes
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Landal Campsite Stadtkyll
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But she isn't here either.
The place is closed.
No info anywhere.
Drowned meadows, torn power lines...
We look for a secluded spot and camp free of charge on the closed site.
There are well-occupied fixed camper sites above the camping meadows, so a wash house is open.
The associated restaurant is publicly located on the street and so the evening meal is guaranteed.
Everything good?
Starry sky, suddenly it gets cold at the pond where we are still sitting in the evening.
The course is almost 500 meters above sea level.
Off to the tent.
The coldest night of the journey is upon us.
Klausen's sleeping bag corner in the tent draws water out of the ground.
I put on almost all my clothes, so to speak, the entire onion, during the night, sit in the overheated toilet for a while and don't think ungratefully about this enormous waste of energy.
And about light pollution; the closed square is brightly outshined by the light of the lanterns all night long.
Despite it.
All good."
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Jünkerath Reservoir
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Other adventures around Hillesheim
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A leisure complex with a wide range of activities was created against the impressive backdrop of the Hillesheim city wall. The area around the lake and the biotope is very close to nature: hiking, cycling, jogging and walking routes of various lengths lead through the beautiful stream valley, including the Eifelsteig and the Kalkeifel cycle path. Numerous information boards on the integrated forest ecology trail and the information pavilion by the lake provide an informative background. Here you can find overviews of geology, ecology and the themed trails in the valley. Barefoot path in the Bolsdorfer Tälchen This new connection to the earth is fun and healthy at the same time. This path offers foot massages from gentle to strong as you walk past and a rediscovery of the feeling in your feet while walking over a variety of surfaces. The 1.5 km long barefoot path has 22 stations. Source: https://www.eifel.info/a-naherholungsgebiet-bolsdorfer-taelchen
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Small but idyllic reservoir with some seating to relax
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children's playground
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Located between Hillesheim and Bolsdorf
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The biotope is part of the renaturation measures in the Bolsdorfer Tälchen, which are intended to counteract climate change and increasing amounts of rain and water. More retention areas should be created throughout the valley to protect Bolsdorf from flood damage.
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At the beginning of the 20th century, the village priest bred trout in the maar, which was around 100,000 years old. In the 1920s the water was drained and its quickly overgrown, fertile ground was used as a viewing area. 80 years later, scientists proved that this was a silted maar. During a core drilling, 23 m of animals found tuff remains from the Laacher See eruption 13,000 years ago. In addition, the funnel lies on a geological fault line that runs from northwest to southeast. The renatured maar is around 120 meters in diameter and offers a biotope for numerous birds. When the maar was revived from 2007, the Oosbach was dammed. Source: 111 places in the Eifel that you have to see Further information: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eichholzmaar
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Idyllic lake in the middle of the forest. Swimming is clearly allowed here, as the sign on the shore makes clear. Clear recommendation to swim and linger. The peaceful coexistence between swimmers and anglers is noticeable🐟🕊️🏊♂️
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes to visit near Hillesheim?
The Vulkaneifel region near Hillesheim is known for its unique volcanic lakes, called maars. Among the most popular are the three Daun Maars: Schalkenmehrener Maar, Gemündener Maar, and Weinfelder Maar. Other highly regarded spots include Eichholzmaar, known for its nature reserve, and Pulvermaar, one of the deepest and best-preserved maars in the Eifel.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Hillesheim?
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. The Gemündener Maar offers an outdoor pool, a large sunbathing area, boat rentals, and facilities for children including a baby pool and sandbox. Eichholzmaar is a tranquil nature reserve perfect for birdwatching, and Jünkerath Reservoir provides a nice spot for picnics with benches.
Where can I go swimming in the lakes near Hillesheim?
For swimming, Schalkenmehrener Maar and Gemündener Maar are popular choices, both offering natural open-air pools and boat rentals. Pulvermaar is also an excellent destination for swimming and diving due to its pristine water quality, featuring a natural swimming pool with a diving tower and boat rentals. Swimming is generally prohibited at Weinfelder Maar to protect its natural environment.
Are there good hiking trails around the lakes?
Absolutely. Many lakes offer well-maintained circular trails. You can enjoy tranquil hikes around the Weinfelder Maar, or explore the network of trails encircling Pulvermaar, which provide stunning views. Eichholzmaar has a circular trail and is integrated into longer routes like the 'Vulkanpfad'. For more extensive hiking options, you can explore routes in the wider region, such as those found in the Hiking around Hillesheim guide.
What unique natural features can I observe at these lakes?
The lakes around Hillesheim are primarily volcanic maars, which are unique water-filled craters. You can observe diverse animal and plant species, especially at nature reserves like Eichholzmaar, which is a vital refuge for rare waterfowl and reptiles. Pulvermaar is notable for its almost perfectly circular shape and steep inner slopes, a testament to its volcanic origins.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, the Weinfelder Maar, also known as Totenmaar, features an old chapel dedicated to St. Martin on its north bank, which was once the parish church of a village that succumbed to the plague. The surrounding cemetery is still maintained, adding to the maar's melancholic atmosphere and historical significance. The Clemens-Josef House, chapel and Vellerhof pond also offers a historical ensemble of buildings.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Hillesheim?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Summer is ideal for swimming and boating at spots like Schalkenmehrener Maar and Gemündener Maar. Spring and autumn are perfect for hiking and enjoying the vibrant colors of the surrounding nature. Winter offers tranquil walks, though some facilities might be closed.
Can I find cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, particularly around the more developed maars. Schalkenmehrener Maar has cafes with views of the lake, and you can also find local shops with Eifel specialties in the village of Schalkenmehren. The area around Daun, where Gemündener Maar is located, also offers various dining options.
Are there cycling paths around the lakes?
Yes, Schalkenmehrener Maar has well-maintained cycling paths that provide beautiful views. The wider Vulkaneifel region is generally well-suited for cycling. For more cycling adventures, you can check out the Gravel biking around Hillesheim guide.
What makes the Müllenborn Pond a special place to visit?
Müllenborn Pond, often called Müllenborner Weiher, is an idyllic water expanse surrounded by forests. It features small bridges and a fountain, creating a picturesque setting. A beautiful circular trail of approximately 6km leads around the lake, passing historic millstone ruins and along the Oosbach stream, making it ideal for quiet explorations.
What kind of activities can I do near the lakes besides hiking and swimming?
Beyond hiking and swimming, you can enjoy boating at Schalkenmehrener Maar and Pulvermaar. Birdwatching is excellent at Eichholzmaar. Fishing is possible at Jünkerath Reservoir, which is managed by a local fishing club. The region also offers various running trails, which you can find in the Running Trails around Hillesheim guide.
Is there an observation tower to get a good view of the maars?
Yes, from the nearby Dronketurm observation tower, visitors can enjoy unique views of both the Gemündener Maar and the neighboring Weinfelder Maar, offering a panoramic perspective of these volcanic lakes.
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