Emsauen Emsdetten © Münsterland e.V. Maximilian Lehrke
Emsauen Emsdetten
Emsauen Emsdetten © Münsterland e.V. Maximilian Lehrke
Emsauen Emsdetten
Emsauen Emsdetten © Heike Miethe
Emsauen Emsdetten

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

EmsRadweg in den Emsauen Emsdetten © EmsRadweg Maximilian Semsch

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.

Find out more about the EmsRadweg

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.

All information about the tour

The "Hembergener Acht": Ems floodplain tour(s) to Greven

This cycle tour transfers the concept of the "Emsdettener Acht" to the open Ems landscape around Hembergen. The route leads through the Ems floodplains, through the village of Hembergen to Greven. Those interested in culture will reach the Wentruper Berge and the Sachsenhof. Via the Heinz-Rinsche-Turm, the route takes you back to Emsdetten with a wide view.

The Emsaue and Mühlenbach Loop

The Emsaue and Mühlenbach loop

This varied circular tour takes you through the most beautiful corners of Emsdetten and combines enjoyment of nature with proximity to the city. You start at the Emsdetten hiking station and after a short time you reach the Emsauen, an idyllic nature reserve with numerous information points, relaxing banks and picturesque paths along the Ems.

Canoeing on the Ems

Glide along at a leisurely pace, observe animals and discover nature from a completely new perspective - canoeing on the Ems combines adventure, relaxation and unique nature experiences - even for beginners.