Unlimited enjoyment of nature

Along the Green Border

What a sense of tranquillity under the vast skies of the Münsterland. This 66-kilometrecycle route promises wonderful encounters with nature along the German-Dutch border. Shortly after setting off from Gronau railway station, you’ll already be crossing the border for the first time. A short detour to the centre of Glanerbrug is definitely worth it. You’ll soon forget that you’re just a few metres from the border. Take some time to browse the Dutch shops along the high street.

Impressive nature reserves

The hustle and bustle of the small village stands in striking contrast to the tranquillity and vastness ofthe Amtsvenn,a fewkilometres away. This sensitive raised bog is not only one of the largest in North Rhine-Westphalia, but certainly also one of the most beautiful and valuable. Numerous rare animals, such as the bluethroat and the tree pipit, have found a refuge here. Here you can discover nature’s treasures – always, of course, keeping a safe distance from the animals and showing respect for nature. So please do not leave any rubbish behind.

Far more conspicuous are the natural ‘landscape caretakers’ in the Witte Venn nature reserve. Around 50 Scottish Highland cattle tirelessly maintain the Witte Venn’s landscapes , with their wet meadows, moorland forests and heathland. These hardy animals live outdoors all year round and help to preserve this unique landscape. It’s well worth dismounting and taking a stroll to soak up the natural surroundings, with their rare flora and fauna.

Hospitality in a dreamlike setting

After so much time in nature, the idyllic Haarmühle is the perfect place to take a break. Unwind, enjoy culinary delights in the beer garden or treat yourself to a short boat trip on the Ahauser Aa. The country inn has been run by the Brüggemann family for four generations and enchants visitors anew with every visit.

From idyll to pop

In a completely relaxed manner and without any inclines, your cycle tour – this time from the south – heads towards further parts of the Amtsvenn. The Huendfelder Moor and Eper-Graeser-Venn offer you beautiful views of the picturesque landscape before you reach the Burgmannshöfe in Heek. Situated right next to the blue ribbon of the River Dinkel, the three Burgmannshöfe form a unique historical ensemble. It’s not uncommon for the view to be accompanied by downright fairy-tale-like music, as the State Music Academy is right next door.

Speaking of music – don’t miss the rock’n’popmuseum in Gronau at the end of your cycle tour. Unique moments in music history are sure to give you goosebumps and provide a striking finale to your cycle tour through the natural landscape of the border region around Gronau.

Animal landscape conservation - moorland sheep in the Fens

If you see white dots on the horizon, they are probably the local moorland sheep. In the summer months, the animals stay in the Venn every day and ensure that the landscape remains open and is always rejuvenated. The flock is not only accompanied by the shepherd or shepherdess, but is also well "looked after" by old German shepherd dogs.

The cycle tour at a glance

  • 66 km
  • Circuit
  • easy
  • Day trip
  • Nature
  • Gronau
  • Heek

Protect what is important to us

The moor and heathland landscapes of Amtsvenn and Witte Venne are particularly sensitive natural areas. During your visit, please stay on existing paths and be considerate of the fauna and flora. Leave nothing but footprints and take only photos and unforgettable impressions with you.

By bus and train to the cycle tour

Arriving in Gronau by train
© Münsterland e.V. / Philipp Fölting

Preserving the good together! Use the train for your journey and protect the climate and the environment. In Münsterland, this is often much better than you might think.

  • Gronau's train station is just a few metres from the town centre. You can start your cycle tour straight away.
  • Gronau is served by the regional railway 51 Dortmund-Lünen-Gronau-Enschede and the regional railway 64 Münster-Steinfurt-Gronau-Enschede.
  • The X80 express bus connects Gronau with Bad Bentheim, Bocholt and Vreden.
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