Gardens and Moors – Northern Emstal

This relaxed day trip around Papenburg is ideal if you want to effortlessly combine nature, garden culture, and local history. You'll cycle along mostly flat and easily navigable paths through a diverse landscape of moors, canals, parks, and gardens.

On this tour, Papenburg reveals its green side: As the "herb capital of Germany," greenhouses, seasonal flowering plants, and lovingly landscaped green spaces characterize the cityscape. Along the canals, through parks and historical sites, a vibrant tapestry of colorful garden art and expansive moorlands unfolds. The contrast between lively urban greenery and tranquil natural areas like the Aschendorf Upper Moor is particularly striking, where information panels offer insights into the unique flora and fauna.

Cultural highlights include landmarks such as the brig "Friederike von Papenburg," historic mills, and the Von-Velen-Anlage, which illustrates the development of this fenland town. In between, lovingly landscaped gardens, baroque parks, and remnants of the State Garden Show invite you to linger. Again and again, you can enjoy tranquil views of waterways, mature trees, and well-maintained green spaces.

Papenburg is easily accessible by train and car, and parking is available near the town center. Along the way, you'll find several options for refreshments and breaks, from farm shops to restaurants along the main canal. Don't forget to fill your water bottle – the rest will fall into place along the way.