Best attractions and places to see around Bawinkel include a blend of natural landscapes and cultural sites within the Emsland region. The area is characterized by its numerous lakes and rivers, such as the Hasetal Nature Reserve, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore historical landmarks and enjoy recreational pursuits like cycling along well-developed paths. Bawinkel provides a variety of points of interest for those seeking both natural beauty and local insights.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Highlight • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
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
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Bawinkel.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The route along the DEK is really good to cycle on. A few years ago, the original route along the Dortmund Ems Canal in the Lingen area was still on gravel roads that were called cycle paths. Fortunately, those days are over and people have learned to create new paths for cyclists 🚴♀️ 🚴♂️ that are as good as those for car drivers. But it's worth leaving the canal every now and then.
9
0
Cycle route Dortmund-Ems Canal from Dortmund to the north Cyclists have access to a great wealth of historical, technical and cultural sights. Idyllic villages and pulsating towns lie along the route, some of which follow the old towpaths directly along the canal, some of which follow the course of the canal a little off the water.
7
0
A beautiful recreation area with beach and palm trees. Something like that can also be made from a cooling water reservoir for a nuclear power plant.
8
0
As early as 1824-1828, the Ems-Hase Canal/Haneken Canal was built from Hanekenfuhr south of Lingen to the Hase in Meppen as a 25 km long side canal of the Ems. When the Dortmund-Ems Canal was built, it was expanded and almost entirely incorporated into the Dortmund-Ems Canal. Further interesting information: https://de.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Dortmund-Ems-Kanal&oldid=223250532
5
3
An average of 22 ships pass through the Meppen lock at kilometer 164 of the Dortmund-Ems Canal every day. You overcome a height difference of 7.50 meters. The larger lock chamber currently in operation has a usable length of 165 meters; the water requirement is 14,800 m³ per lock. – In order to reduce water consumption, a water reservoir at the lock in the valley absorbs half of the lock water so that it can be released again to fill the chamber at the subsequent lock on the mountain. The Meppen lock was built in the 1950s and has been repeatedly modernized since then. Source: www.emsland.com
4
0
The Geeste reservoir was built in the 1980s and has a capacity of around 23.4 million cubic meters of water. It is used from the Dortmund-Ems Canal at times when there is sufficient water flow in the Ems filled with a pump. At times of low water, up to 18 million cubic meters of water can then be returned via the canal to the Ems from the basin in the same way. Without further interference with nature, the Dortmund-Ems Canal serves as a long-distance water pipeline between the reservoir and the Ems. The total capacity of the basin is designed in such a way that the Lingen nuclear power plant can continue to operate even if the drought lasts for months without affecting the ecology of the Ems. The lake is about 2 km long and about 1.3 km wide at its widest point. The path on the crest of the dam is about 5.8 km long. The Geeste reservoir serves as a local recreation area for the region and offers a wide range of opportunities for walkers, cyclists, swimmers, sailors and divers.
8
0
The region around Bawinkel is rich in natural beauty, featuring numerous lakes and rivers. A prominent spot is the Geeste Reservoir North Beach, an artificial lake that serves as a popular recreation area. You can also explore the Hasetal Nature Reserve, known for its diverse landscapes, and the Hahnenmoorkanal, which is a worth-seeing natural feature.
The Geeste Reservoir North Beach is an excellent place for water activities. Originally a cooling water basin, it's now a popular spot for swimming, sailing, surfing, and diving. The northern beach provides a great area to cool off and enjoy the water.
Bawinkel offers several well-developed cycling paths. The Dortmund-Ems Canal Cycle Path is a popular choice, allowing cyclists to explore idyllic villages and towns along the canal. Another option is the "On the trail of energy" Circular Route, which takes you through the southern Emsland region. The Hasetalradweg, particularly the section from Meppen to Haselünne, is also recommended for its scenic beauty and easy cycling.
Yes, you can delve into local history at the Bawinkeler Mühle, which functions as a local history museum. In the center of Bawinkel, Alexanderpark features interesting historical equipment displayed near the local heritage house, such as a brick well and a restored historic horse-powered capstan.
Beyond Bawinkel, the broader Emsland region boasts significant cultural landmarks. Clemenswerth Castle, a magnificent baroque castle with an extensive park, is a major tourist highlight. The area also features historic windmills, which are considered important regional landmarks.
Many attractions around Bawinkel are suitable for families. The Geeste Reservoir North Beach is family-friendly, offering swimming and space for outdoor play. Cycling along the Dortmund-Ems Canal Cycle Path is also a great family activity, with easy-to-drive sections. Alexanderpark in Bawinkel, with its walking paths and interesting displays, is freely accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
You can find a variety of hiking trails around Bawinkel, many of which are considered easy. For example, there are easy loops like the "Bramhar Herb Farm – Kräuterhof Rosen loop from Bramhar" and the "St. Alexander Parish Church – Catholic Church of Bawinkel loop from Bawinkel." These trails offer pleasant walks through the local landscape. You can find more options for hiking at Hiking around Bawinkel and Easy hikes around Bawinkel.
Visitors frequently praise the well-maintained cycling paths, especially along the Dortmund-Ems Canal, noting them as wonderful to drive. The Geeste Reservoir North Beach is highly appreciated for its opportunities to cycle, take breaks, and enjoy swimming or other water sports. The blend of natural beauty and accessible outdoor activities is a major draw.
The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Bawinkel, offering pleasant temperatures for cycling and hiking. The summer months are also popular, especially for water activities at the Geeste Reservoir. The region's natural beauty is enjoyable across multiple seasons.
For those interested in cultural events, the annual Stoppelmarkt is the largest folk festival in Emsland. It offers a vibrant experience with rides, music, and culinary delights, making it a significant cultural highlight in the broader region.
Yes, the area around Bawinkel offers several routes suitable for gravel biking. You can explore loops like the "Ems Cycle Route – Dortmund-Ems Canal Pathway loop from Lingen (Ems)" or the "Geeste Reservoir – Dortmund-Ems Canal Cycle Path loop from Biene." More options can be found in the guide for Gravel biking around Bawinkel.
Parking facilities are generally available near the main attractions in Bawinkel and the surrounding areas. For instance, the Alexanderpark in the center of Bawinkel is freely accessible, implying convenient access. When planning your visit, it's advisable to check specific locations for designated parking areas.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: