Black Fens

It is probably the oldest nature reserve in the Borken district: the Black Fens! In 1936, the natural area near Heiden was officially declared a nature reserve. The owner of the approximately 47-hectare area is the district of Borken.

This is a wonderful place to go for a walk, admire the flora and fauna and relax a little. But don't forget: Be considerate of nature, don't disturb the animals and don't leave any rubbish behind.

By the way, the Black Fens are in the best of neighbourhoods: the nature reserves Heubachwiesen in Reken and Fürstenkuhle in Gescher are not that far away.

Kneipp basin as a tourist attraction

As is typical of a moorland area, you’ll find not only sphagnum mosses and cotton grass here, but also plenty of wet meadows and moor birches. With a bit of luck, you might spot an animal living here. Various species of meadow and wading birds breed in this area.

One of the area’s highlights, however, is the so-called artesian well, a special kind of spring. Nestled amongst the trees, this well offers a refreshing cool-down, especially on hot days. Here, you can get your circulation going following the principles of Reverend Sebastian Kneipp.

Map | Black Fens

Protecting what matters

The Schwarze Venn is a protected sanctuary for flora and fauna and is highly sensitive to disturbance. Please therefore stay on the marked paths. They will lead you to the visitor centre, where you will find interesting information about the nature reserve. Please keep your dog on a lead and do not leave any rubbish behind. Avoid making noise, as many wild animals are well camouflaged and much closer than you realise. Noise startles the animals, causing them to lose valuable energy. The Schwarze Venn will reward you with many wonderful moments.

Sights around the Black Fens

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Cycle route on the Black Fens

High Mark Cycle Route High Mark Cycle Route
© Münsterland e.V./Sebastian Lehrke
Surprise in the nature park
Over 280 kilometres, the cycle path tells of the diverse nature and exciting stories in the Hohe Mark Nature Park.
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