Emsauen Emsdetten
River landscape, biodiversity and recreation perfectly combined
The Emsauen s in Emsdetten are one of the most impressive nature experience areas in the region. Between the Emsbrücke bridge and the eastern edge of the town, a renaturalized river landscape opens up to you, combining nature enjoyment, recreation and environmental education in a special way.
Since 1998, large parts of the Ems floodplain have been designated as a contiguous nature reserve - at around 4,000 hectares, it is one of the largest nature reserves in North Rhine-Westphalia.
With the "EmsAue EmsDetten", a high-quality nature experience area was created in 2012, making the beauty of this unique river landscape accessible to visitors and protecting valuable habitats at the same time.
What you can expect:
- Barrier-free paths and boardwalks
- Nature observation stations
- Meadow balcony with sweeping views
- Relaxing banks to linger on
- Photo spots with special "Emsauenblicke views"
- Highland cattle as natural landscape conservationists
Here you can experience the Ems meadows up close, observe rare bird species, discover diverse plant worlds or simply enjoy the tranquillity by the water.
Protect and experience nature
The near-natural redesign of the banks of the Ems and the creation of new wetlands permanently improve the living conditions for numerous animal and plant species. The result is a harmonious combination of nature conservation and recreational value.
Our nature tip:
Along the route you will find numerous picnic spots with beautiful views or relaxing banks to unwind and linger. Take a delicious picnic in the middle and enjoy it in the middle of nature. The Emsauen are a place for active explorers, nature lovers and those seeking relaxation in equal measure.
Out and about on the EmsRadweg - discovering Emsdetten is worthwhile

The Emsauen are located directly on one of the most beautiful long-distance cycle routes in Germany: the EmsRadweg. If you are cycling along the Ems, Emsdetten is the perfect place for a relaxing break, a varied stopover or even a longer stay.
From the Emsauen, you can take the attractive Mühlenbachweg directly into Emsdetten city center. Lively cultural offerings, a variety of events, diverse restaurants, individual retail outlets and charming accommodation await you there.
This is the perfect way to combine your nature experience along the Ems with urban flair, a welcoming atmosphere and numerous leisure options. Whether a short pit stop in a café, an extended stroll through the town or an overnight stay with a further nature program - Emsdetten offers cyclists far more than just one stage.
Tour tips: Actively discover the Emsauen
The Emsauen invite you to actively experience the impressive river landscape. Barrier-free walking paths, natural hiking trails and varied cycle paths lead you through extensive floodplains, along renaturalized riverbanks and to special viewpoints. Perfect for anyone who wants to combine exercise, relaxation and enjoyment of nature.















