Lake Laach, also known as Laacher See, in the Volcanic Eifel and its surrounding region form the largest nature reserve in the German state Rhineland-Palatinate. This lake of volcanic origin is not really known beyond the region, but it is absolutely perfect for a weekend in nature. There is plenty of variety here, but also peace and relaxation. I’ll give you 10 tips on what you can do at Lake Laach and which accommodation is best suited.
About 12,900 years ago, there was probably the most violent volcanic eruption in Europe for the last 200,000 years. Today, this is exactly where Lake Laach is located. You can still discover many remnants of this powerful volcanic eruption in the lake and the Volcanic Eifel region. But you can also just relax in nature and take a dip in the lake ;)
With a size of around 3.3 square kilometers and a water depth of more than 50 meters, Lake Laach is also the largest lake in Rhineland-Palatinate.
If you are looking for peace and quiet in nature, but also need a change of pace and other activities from time to time on vacation, then a trip to Lake Laach is just the thing for you. I recommend at least one overnight stay, e.g. on a weekend trip, but even for a few days more, the lake and its region offer plenty to do.
1. Visit the Maria Laach monastery
You can see the Benedictine Abbey of Maria Laach very clearly from the other side of the river. The monastery was founded in the 11th century by Count Palatine Henry II of Laach.
There are lots of stores here, such as the monastery’s own nursery, a bookshop, a store for traditional arts and crafts and workshops. You can also go inside the large abbey church.
The rest of the monastery complex is closed to visitors. But in May and June, there is an open tour of the Maria Laach grounds every Sunday at 2.00 pm.
There is a great hiking trail around the entire lake, which you can also cycle around. You can learn something about the region at various information boards along the way.
Along the way, you will come across fantastic viewpoints where you should take a break and enjoy the peace and quiet.
3. Marvel at the mofettes by the lake
If you walk along the south-eastern shore, the strange bubbling spots will certainly catch your eye immediately. These are carbon dioxides that rise to the surface, so-called mofettes.
4. Take a swim in the lake
When you look at Lake Laach from afar, you’ll want to jump straight into the water.
In order to protect nature, however, there is only a swimming area in the northern part of the lake near the campsite. This area is also secured against possible dangers. The shore of the lake is very shallow and not particularly rocky, making it a perfect bathing lake.
5. Run through the trass caves
I found a visit to the trass caves (Trasshöhlen) located 5 km north of Lake Laach quite exciting. These were formed by the mining of trass, a rock found in this region.
A circular path leads you through the two different cave areas where you can explore several caves.
6. Visit the lava dome
The German Volcano Museum Lava Dome is located in Merzig. Here you can learn about volcanism with all kinds of illustrative material on an exhibition area of 700 m².
You can even visit the large underground lava cellars here at certain times with a supervisor. More information can be found here.
Admission to the Lava Dome with the lava cellars costs €9.50. Without the lava cellars it’s €7.50.
7. Marvel at the winter mountain face and rockfall
The Winterbergswand is an attraction for volcanologists worldwide. But it is also a very special place for normal tourists. Nowhere else in the world can you safely observe the layers of such an immense eruption as it once took place here 12,900 years ago.
Many information boards in front of the wall explain exactly what once happened here and what impact it had on the region and the whole world.
8. Paddle across the lake by boat
There is a rowing and pedal boat rental service on the lake at Boatsverleih Abtei Maria Laach right next to the monastery.
For €8 you get a boat for 30 minutes for 1-2 people. Each additional person costs €1 extra.
9. Ascent to the Lydia Tower
You can get a comprehensive view of the lake from the 23-metre-high Lydia Tower in the north. The tower itself is made of lava stone and wood.
10. Paddling pool in Krufter Waldsee
Just a few meters south-east of Lake Laach lies its little brother – Lake Krufter Waldsee. You can also swim here without hesitation. The lake has excellent water quality and only has a very shallow slope.
If you make the effort to climb up to the Teufelskanzel, you can also enjoy the fantastic view of the forest lake and the surrounding mountainous region.
Accommodation at Lake Laach
One of the most beautiful accommodations in the area can be found at the campsite in the north of Lake Laach: Camping RCN Laacher See from a Dutch provider. The Dutch simply know what camping is all about.
You can either stay here with your motorhome or van, or rent one of the glamping tents. There is also a restaurant, a kiosk, modern sanitary facilities with showers and a bathing area by the lake, access to which is included in the price. I was here myself and felt at home right from the start thanks to the super friendly briefing at the entrance.
If you need more comfort, the Seehotel Maria Laach right by the monastery might be more for you. It is also not far from the lakeshore, has a wellness area, a restaurant and breakfast buffet on request.
Have you ever been to Lake Laach? How did you like it? Write me a comment with your tips for Lake Laach
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