active & outdoors - Hiking, cycling and more in Niedersachsen

www.niedersachsen-tourism.com

active & outdoorsHiking, cycling and more in Niedersachsen

The North The EastEast Frisian Islands · North Sea coastOstfriesland · Emsland

Lüneburger Heide · Elbtalaue-Wendland

2

from page 6 from page 14

The South The WestOsnabrücker Land · Grafschaft Bentheim Oldenburger Münsterland · Mittelweser

Hannover Region · Braunschweiger LandHarz · Weserbergland

Where do you want to spend your next active holiday? In the north, south, east or west? “Doesn’t matter, as long as it’s Niedersachsen!” could well be the answer once you’ve read this brochure. Because, from Wurmberg in the south at an altitude of just under 1,000 m, to bewitching fluvial plans in the west and gently rolling heath land-scapes in the east, to the mudflats of the North Sea, Germany’s second largest state fulfils every active holiday-maker’s wish with a total of 16 natural landscapes. Whether it be hiking, clambering, walking, sailing, cycling, horse-riding, canoeing, kayaking or skiing – you’ll have full freedom of movement! Discover Niedersachsen with its surprising landscapes, unique flora and fauna, charming customs and legendary secrets: First in this brochure and then in real life … We hope you enjoy it and have an unforgettable trip!

3

from page 20 from page 30

HannoverAmsterdam

Köln

Berlin

Kiel

München

245 km

280 km

630 km

295 km

375 km

Directions

Seal of Quality: ServiceQualität Deutschland

Whether with your own car, by public transport, boat or plane, there are many ways to reach Niedersachsen.

By plane: Hannover Airport (HAJ) in the Nieder-sachsen’s state capital is the central hub for arriving by plane.

Another 4 international airports are locat-ed nearby:• Hamburg Airport (HAM)• Paderborn Airport (PAD)• Airport Münster / Osnabrück (FMO)• Airport Bremen (BRE)

By car or ferry: Want to travel to Niedersachsen in your own car and use ferry connections to Germany, the Netherlands or France? Then you’ll be able to reach Niedersach-sen just a few hours after the ferry cross-ing. The state has a good infrastructure. The motorways A7 (north-south) and A2 (east-west) particularly ensure a quick connection.

Overview of distances: Amsterdam – Hannover: 3 hours 45 min.Calais – Hannover: 6 hoursFlensburg – Hannover: 3 hoursHamburg – Hannover: 1 hour 15 min.Kiel – Hannover: 2 hours 30 min.Rotterdam/Hoek van Holland – Hannover: 4 hours 25 min.

By train: Travel to Niedersachsen in comfort with public transport.Most cities in Niedersachsen are connect-ed to the German Rail ICE network.

For more information, visit the “Service” column on our website.

www.niedersachsen-tourism.com

Behind the ServiceQualität Deutschland quality management system in Niedersachsen lie over 330 quality-conscious service providers from a wide variety of industries. They all pursue a com-mon goal: Ensuring and developing service qual-ity right across the holiday region of Niedersach-sen in order to offer you, as the customer, the very best service quality.

Whether as a guest or a customer, you now have the chance to select from a wide range of servic-es and compare them. The quality seal makes it easy for you to gain an overview. It offers you a reliable form of orientation when searching for the right service provider.

During your stay in Niedersachsen, choose a business which has been awarded the “Q” so you can be sure to expect a certain level of at-tention and good service. Let us put a smile on your face! When making your booking, look for businesses marked with the “Q”.

For more information, visit www.servicequalität-niedersachsen.de.

– what’s it all about?

4

Content

5

“Moin” in northern NiedersachsenWhen one thinks of northern Niedersachsen, the first thing that comes to mind is the North Sea. The low and high tide, shells and beach. But this area has so much more for the body and soul to discover. In this chapter, we invite you on a “moving” journey through northern Niedersachsen – on water, land and in the best air.

Let’s start with a daytrip to the Niedersächsisches Wattenmeer National Park. Barefoot, with mud between the toes, through tidal creeks to see rock worms, mussels & co. Or perhaps you prefer to keep your feet dry in hiking boots and trudge along the coast, past dunes and over dykes and salt marshes, accompanied by one or two sea dwellers? “Look at that! A seal! So close!“

For all those who prefer to explore nature by bike, we recommend a coastal tour past lighthouses, flocks of sheep and mills – with a constant North Sea breeze on their face. Is that a raindrop? Great! When the weather turns lousy, head straight to a cosy Friesen-kate (a small Frisian cottage) for a cup of hot tea with candy and cream topping.

6 north

On your horse and get galloping through sand, beach grass and crowberry heath across one of the seven East Frisian Islands – making your way leisurely towards the sunset.

It was nice by the sea, but now it’s time to say good-bye! Get on your bike and experience one of the four amazing Ostfriesland tours inland. Accompanied by rivers and passing by traditional moorland villages. Depending on the route, you can marvel at idyllic, adventurous, maritime or regal landscapes. It’s your choice!

Prefer things a little more fruity? Then the Obstroute (fruit route) in the Altes Land region outside Hamburg is just the thing for you. Here, trees bearing juicy apples and sweet cherries densely line the cycling tracks, while small fruit shops by the roadside are conducive to taking a break.

We reach the Teufelsmoor (Devil’s moor) in a re-freshed state. Does it give you the creeps? It shouldn’t. The area is certainly thrilling, but not dangerous. Whether by hiking, walking or cycling, it’s time to head to the “picturesque” artists’ village of Worps-wede, where art, culture and nature are combined in a unique manner. Those who wish to can also switch to a kayak or canoe, or climb aboard a his-toric Torfkahn (peat barge). Upon reaching dry land again, enjoy dairy treats in a traditional Melkhus to recharge the batteries.

Who’s that by the roadside? Nature and botany lovers will absolutely love a visit to the Schlosspark Lütetsburg. Numerous exotic plants reveal their col-ourful splendour in the place where Theodor Fontane used to promenade. But for all those who prefer a lush green, this northern region also throws up a chal-lenge in the form of gorgeous golf courses.

Now relaxed, we continue on to the cyclist’s para-dise known as the Emsland region – home to 3,000 km of cycling tracks with guaranteed flat country! On the 300-km circuit, you’ll cycle past mysterious moor landscapes and through green forests to a state of to-tal pleasure. This place has so much to offer – from the unique, stunning and colourful, to the historic, homely, idyllic and invigorating. And those wishing to set off on foot can even discover themselves with each step – surprise yourself!

7north

Die Nordsee GmbH · www.die-nordsee.de1

Recognised: The Wadden Sea becomes a World Heritage Site (Weltnaturerbe Wattenmeer)

The Wadden Sea was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2009, putting it on a par with other famous natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon in the USA and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.Lots of interesting information on the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Nat-ural Heritage Site (Weltnaturerbe Wattenmeer) can be found at www.wattenmeer-weltnaturerbe.de

Tip

Cycling along the spectacular coast, ex-tended walks by the dyke, hiking through vast mudflats – at Niedersachsen’s North Sea, the body yearns for fresh, iodine-containing air after intense usage. But don’t worry; even though strenuous ac-tivities are allowed, they are not neces-sary in order to feel reborn within a short space of time.

A mudflats hike through the world natu-ral heritage site is an absolute must. Be-cause it offers just the “slow down” you expect from a holiday on the Niedersach-sen coast.

All falls unbelievably silent when the North Sea recedes from the mudflats – a wonderful place to sharpen the sens-es. You can hear a faint smacking of lips. Experts claim it comes from washed-up clams burying themselves once more with their tiny feet.

A cycling tour past historic estates, proud lighthouses and old mills is very varied and similarly suitable for all ages. These attractions adorn the route like pearls on a necklace. Even die-hard mountain-bik-ers will appreciate this aspect of recrea-tional riding. Green and white signs point out the way, including to the next pictur-esque village or small harbour, where you can recharge your batteries with chunky fish or crab sandwiches. And if you let the tailwind push you, you will inevitably be overcome by the feeling of not only hav-ing ridden through, but also experienced, Niedersachsen’s North Sea coast.

Active recuperation by the North Sea – Getting the body and soul going properly

8 north

Spiekeroog

OUR

World HeritageExperience and help preserve a natural wonder

www.waddensea-worldheritage.org

ThErE is a placE – whErE hEavEn and EarTh sharE ThE samE sTagE

Phot

o: d

eff W

este

rkam

p

100716_RZ_Waddensea_KV1_TEMPLATE_1_2_Quer_210x148,5_eng.indd 1 28.07.2010 17:17:13 Uhr

Want to experience the island from a different perspective? Then you should try your luck on horseback. Spiekeroog has two horse farms: The Reitschule Petschat and the Islandhof. An extensive range of services awaits you – from excursions to challenging lessons.Evening rides with wine & cheese for adults, and special rides for youngsters promise a unique experience. And the best thing: riding on the beach is permitted all year round ex-cept for the main beach.

– The North Sea island the natural way

Spiekeroog Island · www.spiekeroog.de2

9north

Fruity fresh cycling pleasure on the Obstroute

Watch out recreational riders – the four exciting Ostfriesland routes cover the East Frisian Peninsula like a cloverleaf. The fin-est stretches of bike paths in Ostfriesland are combined on the four tours – “Wa-ter and vastness”, “Pirates and chieftains”, “Old and new harbours” and “Gardens and palaces”. In doing so, the quartet of cycling tours thematically pick up on the particularities and features of the respec-

tive sub-regions. Discover the history of Ostfriesland, with old chieftains’ head-quarters, castles and palaces, by bike. Cycle along the rivers Ems, Leda and Jümme and the Fehnkanäle (moor canals) with their typical white bascule bridg-es, and through traditional marshland villages. The “Old and new harbours” tour combines romantic Sielhäfen (sluice ports) with the maritime Wilhelmshaven

and JadeWeserPort, while on the “Gar-dens and palaces” tour, you’ll experience the colourful landscape with stunning cottage gardens. The tours are between 170 km and 195 km long, and can be ex-plored over four to five days.

A sea of white and pink blossoms enchants visitors in spring, while a vast array of fruit fascinates them in summer and autumn. Cherry and

apple trees, artistically decorated Altländer half-timbered houses, and quaint churches with precious organs characterise the Obstroute through the Altes Land region. On two circuits, the cycling track heads through the orchard just outside Hamburg, constantly following the wa-ter and dyke, until it reaches the towns of Stade and Buxtehude. Many farm shops attract visi-tors with fresh fruits, farmhouse tours, fruit sam-ples and group activities.

Those needing a small break from cycling can take advantage of the Elbe-Radwanderbus on weekends and public holidays. This recrea-

tional bus with bike trailer takes you and your bicycle to your destination. Consistently follow-ing the Elbe from Horneburg, the bus connects many of the region’s highlights (such as Germa-ny’s largest enclosed fruit-growing district) with the Hanseatic City, the Elbe island of Kraut-sand, maritime villages such as Wischhafen and Freiburg, and the Natureum Niederelbe.

– From the North Sea to the inland region

Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH www.ostfriesland-tourism.com

3

Altes Land am Elbstrom holiday region– Naturally, just outside Hamburgwww.urlaubsregion-altesland.de

4

Individual packages are available for all four Ostfriesland tours, e.g. in the footsteps of pirates and chieftains 3 nights+bf, lug-gage transfer, museum visit and map materi-al for 229.00 € per person in a double room. A cycling map with all four Ostfriesland tours tours is available for 5.50 €. The free Ostfries-land cycling brochure contains more offers.

www.ostfriesland-tourism.com/cycling

Ostfriesland tour

Order our cycling magazine and find out more! Apart from the Obstroute, many other cycling tracks invite you to take tours through the Altes Land am Elbstrom holiday region: Whether it be the “Elberadweg”, “Nordseeküstenrad-weg”, “Vom Teufelsmoor zum Watten-meer”, “Niedersächsische Milchstraße”, “Has- and Igelroute” or “Klosterroute” – around 1,000 km of cycling tracks all have standardised signposting. www.radeln-altesland.de

10 north

Fruity fresh cycling pleasure on the Obstroute

The Teufelsmoor (Devil’s moor), with Germany’s most fa-mous artists’ village of Worpswede, is located just north of Bremen, and is a paradise for cyclists, paddlers and all those who love the outdoors. The well-signposted cycling tracks are lined with Melkhüs, which invite you to stop and en-joy their dairy treats. Cycling tracks such as “Weites Land” or “Vom Teufelsmoor zum Wattenmeer” (www.teufelsmoor- wattenmeer.de) are ideal for multi-day rides, but there is also a wide variety of day rides: e.g. the approx. 42-km-long “KlimaTour”, on which you follow the traces of climate change, armed with a GPS device and an info-brochure. Along the way, you’ll learn why it is so important to protect the moors.

The Teufelsmoor is criss-crossed by numerous streams. The impressive, vast Hammeniederung landscape can be expe-rienced up close by canoe and kayak (free waterway map available). Those not wanting to paddle themselves can trav-el in comfort on a peat barge (Torfkahn), whose brown sails characterise the landscape (from May to October). A peat barge ride is a key part of every Teufelsmoor holiday, and goes well with a ride on the historic Moorexpress. This nos-talgic train will take you (and your bike) to small, hidden sta-tions within the region.Kulturland Teufelsmoor

www.teufelsmoor.de 5

The “Weites Land” cycling track runs for around 140 km (largely away from traffic) from the Hanseatic City of Bremen, through the Teufelsmoor, to the artists’ village of Worpswede. The unmistakable North Ger-man landscape, with its streams, idyllic moorland villages and an extraordinary cul-tural history, guarantees a special cycling experience.www.weites-land.info

Tip

GPS treasure hunt in the Teufelsmoor! An ex-citing experience for young and old. You can rent GPS devices from the region’s tour-ist information offices for 7.50 € per day, and go on your own journey of discovery. Those who skilfully solve the puzzles will be rewarded with a small treasure at the end. Of course, the device can also be used for walks and bike rides.www.teufelsmoor.de/gps

TeufelsmoorNatural experiences in this vast region

11north

Schlosspark Lütetsburg– More than nature

Schlosspark Lütetsburgwww.schlosspark-luetetsburg.de

6

Dear nature lovers, walkers, treas-ure hunters and botany enthusiasts, discover the Schlosspark Lütetsburg – northern Germany’s largest private landscaped English garden. Behind the stone walls lie 30 hectares of lovingly tended palace grounds, with their over 150 exotic and na-tive tree and shrub species, as well as unique buildings and decorations. Dis-cover the many facets of nature along intricate pathways. Experience the magic of a sea of rhododendrons and azaleas in May and June – although the park will enchant you with its sea-sonal charm even outside the flores-cence period. Walk, just as Theodor Fontane did, along the intricate path-ways back to the 16th century and gain authentic insights into the history of this horticultural gem from the soul-

fully integrated historic buildings, dec-orations and park benches adorned with inscriptions.

Allow yourself to be captivated by the vastness, restorative tranquillity and romantic atmosphere of the Schloss-park Lütetsburg.

Before or after a walk, the Schlosspark café invites you to sample seasonal specialities – on the spacious terrace or under the roof covered in old vines. Visit the Schlosspark Lütetsburg!You are very welcome!

The park is open all year round: May– Sept.: 8am –9pm, Oct.–April: 10am–5pm. The entire park complex is suit-able for wheelchairs. Entry fee: 2 € Play a round of golf!

The Schloss Lütetsburg golf club, span-ning an area of over 65 hectares, is situated right next to the Schlosspark. Whether for a demanding game or a relaxed round – the golf club offers an all-round fulfilling golfing experience. Our fairways, with their unique archi-tecture, will challenge you!www.golfclub-luetetsburg.de

12 north

3,000 kilometres of premium cycling tracks with guaranteed flat country leave nothing to be desired. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, recreational cyclist, or a family with chil-dren, the Emsland region has the right track for you.

The Emsland Route circuit is 300 km long. It offers a maritime atmosphere along the Ems, mysterious moors and the green forests on the gently rolling hills of the Hümmling district.

A number of features await you by the roadside: the world’s only baroque hunting lodge (Schloss Clemenswerth); the MeyerWerft, the cradle of great dream ships; the Erleb-niswelt Emsflower, which produces ½ billion plants a year; and the Emsland Moormuseum, with the world’s largest steam plough. But the best bit is that they all cater to visitors!

There are also idyllic rural scenes in gardens and farm ca-fés, historic character in the lively towns, and a wealth of hospitality. Those who wish to can combine cycling with a canoe ride.

Passionate cyclists can continue their discoveries, e.g. on the 4-star Ems-Radweg, the Rad-Route Dortmund-Ems-Ka-nal, the Geest-Radweg or the Hase-Ems-Tour. (Ask for a leaflet with map!)

Hikers will also experience the lush Emsland region up close. The long-distance Hünenweg hiking track starts in Osnabrück. It heads into the Emsland moors near Herz-lake, then continues through the Hümmling to Papenburg. A branch-off leads through the Hasetal Valley and into the Bourtanger Moor Nature Park as far as the Netherlands. Hike through the Bargerveen nature reserve, or find inner contemplation on the Hümmling pilgrimage route.

EmslandThe activity paradise in the north-west

Emsland Touristik GmbH · www.emsland.com7

Top bike rides: One lodging, countless possibilities!

Those wanting to discover the Emsland region by bike while still being comfortably based at the same lodging can book 2 nights w. breakfast, 1 coffee, 1 museum visit, maps and info-material from just 75 € (in a standard dou-ble room). The “RADexpress” bicycle bus ensures flexibil-ity and wide coverage.www.emsland.com

The classic:

Discover the Emsland region over five stages. This is what’s on offer from the classic circuit on the Emsland Route. 5 nights with breakfast, 1 museum visit, map and info-material for 239 € per person in a double room. Luggage transfer, bike hire and half-board can also be booked. Become an Emsland fan!www.emsland.com

13north

Welcome to Niedersachsen’s Garden of EdenCome on into this paradise for nature lovers and active holidaymakers. From the Elbtalaue in the Wendland re-gion, to the Südheide around Gifhorn, to the Lüneburg-er Heide, several thousand kilometres of cycling tracks, numerous hiking routes, stables, rivers, rare flora and fauna in a unique landscape, and Germany’s largest concentration of leisure parks all await you. Whether on foot, by bike, hiking, walking, horse-riding, paddling or barefoot, we want to take you on a journey to east-ern Niedersachsen in this chapter. Let’s go!

We get into the thick of things right from the start of our trip – in the diverse flora and fauna of the Nied-ersächsische Elbtalaue biosphere reserve. Accompa-nied by the fluttering of dragonflies and the gaggling of geese, we pass by Stromtalwiesen grassland and heath landscapes, through forests and over rolling hills before reaching the round villages. The old half-timbered hous-es arranged in circles look like small Smurf villages from afar, but, when examined more closely, have fascinat-ing cultural and historic facts to tell. A nice place for a rest – because it also has tasty treats to offer.

14 east

After refuelling, it’s time to head to the former internal German border, the “Green Belt”. The king of the air – the sea eagle – watches us with its beady eye dur-ing our paddling tour on the Elbe. In the evening, we row past lush meadows, rare plants and thousands of resting geese. “Splash, splash, nibble, snap!” “Hello? Who’s there? Ah, Mr. Beaver! Hello – and good night.”

Upon waking, we start the day with a trip around the world! The international open-air mill museum in Gif-horn has mills from 14 different countries over an out-door area of 100,000 m². Out of breath? Freshen up by jumping into the cool water of Lake Tankumsee, or have a nap on the white sandy beach.

After relaxing for a while, we continue by bike. 200 kilometres of gently rolling hills and numerous attrac-tions are waiting to be discovered in the Südheide. Whether it be monasteries, museums or the otter cen-tre, there’s something to suit every taste. And at one of the many farmhouses, you’ll be treated to homemade cake, while the kids get up close and personal with kittens, cows and moorland sheep. “Can’t we stay?” “We’ll spend our next holiday here – I promise!”

The last stage of our short trip is very romantic and a Mecca for horse lovers: the Lüneburger Heide, also known as the “Tuscany of the North”. By bike, in the saddle of a proud “Niedersachsen” or in a coach-man’s seat, we head through a sea of lilac heather, passing by moors and river landscapes. And those who prefer to discover nature by foot – either hiking or walking - can explore the many themed hiking tracks, armed with a GPS and info maps.

Shoes off! Time to continue barefoot. Look forward to lots of “oohs” and “aahs”, and maybe even a “yuck” at the Barfußpark Egestorf.

By the time our short trip ends, you’ll feel restored from head to toe. Don’t want to go home yet? Then keep reading. There’s still a lot to discover in Niedersach-sen’s Garden of Eden ...

15east

The “Biosphärenreservat Niedersächsis-che Elbtalaue” (biosphere reserve) and the “Elbhöhen-Wendland” Nature Park form the heart of this unique natural re-gion. Here, you can come face to face with the king of the air, the sea eagle. The Elbe beaver can be observed on the riv-erbanks at dusk. The diverse landscape of Stromtalwiese (floodplain meadows)

grassland, alluvial forests, dunes, heaths and gently rolling hills are conducive to relaxing amongst nature. The striking round villages of the Wendland region, with their old half-timbered farmhouses, are scattered like small mushrooms. In these villages, you have the opportunity to discover small cultural or culinary treas-ures. The nature along the former inter-

nal German border, the so-called “Green Belt”, offers something special all year round. Using binoculars, thousands of resting geese can be spotted along the Elbe during the colder months. A varie-ty of natural history exhibits, e.g. the Bio-sphaerium Elbtalaue in Bleckede, are also worth a visit.

Flusslandschaft Elbe GmbH · www.erlebnis-elbe.deElbtalaue-Wendland Touristik GmbH · www.elbtalaue-wendland.de8

Elbtalaue-Wendlandbiosphere region

Hot and cold downstream

· 2 nights in the 4-star Finnish log cabin incl. breakfast· 2 dinners by the fire (organic buffet) at the Salix café· Guided Elbe canoe ride incl. hot drink· Exclusive sauna by the sea incl. tea and fruit· Optional: “Nordic Walking in the Gartow Forest” / “Starry sky” tour from 129 € p.p., only during the colder monthswww.kanustation-gartow.de

Experience nature in the Elbe river landscape

1. Day: Arrive in Neetze, take the bus to Bleckede, visit the Biosphaerium Elbtalaue or ride a draisine2. Day: Wagon ride through the Neetzetal Valley, bus ride to Lüneburg with a city tour, a “Danz op de Deel” in the evening 3. Day: Elbe cruise from Hitzacker and departure Group price 180 € p.p. double room, half-board.www.erlebnis-elbe.de

Tip

16 east

Niedersachsen has over 80 golf courses for a perfect golfi ng holiday. It offers diversity and high standards – you can seek inspiration for your dream holiday at:www.golfland-niedersachsen.de/en

Discover the exclusive wellness offers, order your free travel magazine and win a connoisseur’s stay in Niedersachsen:www.geniessen-sie-sich.de

Active holiday for golfers

Want a revitalising holiday of comfort?

www.golfl and-niedersachsen.com

golf guide 2011

golf courses and hotel in the “golfl and niedersachsen”

Genießen Sie sich.In Niedersachsen. Reiseland für Ihre schönsten Seiten.

Lust auf Komfort- und Vitalurlaub? Entdecken Sie exklusive Wohlfühl-Angebote,

bestellen Sie Ihr kostenloses Reisemagazin und gewinnen

Sie einen Genießer-Aufenthalt in Niedersachsen:

www.geniessen-sie-sich.de

Jetzt Niedersachsen entdecken! www.geniessen-sie-sich.de

The varying route leads you over 200 kilo-metres of gently rolling heath. The cycling tour starts in the mill town of Gifhorn, with a visit to the international open-air mill mu-seum – a journey to 14 different countries in just one day.

Then it continues through the largest heath area (Heiliger Hain) further to the time-honoured monastery of Isenhagen and the otter centre in Hankensbüttel. The school museum in Steinhorst and the cinema mu-seum in Vollbüttel are absolute musts. The 62-hectare bathing paradise at Lake Tan-kumsee, near by Gifhorn, invites you to re-lax on its long, white sandy beach.

Südheide Gifhorn GmbHwww.suedheide-gifhorn.de

9

Cycling through the Südheide GifhornCycling tours with luggage transport

The cycling tour with luggage transport includes five nights entry to the open-air mill museum and can be booked from 245 €

per person.

17east

The Lüneburger Heide is one of Europe’s most famous regions, with the heather blooming season in late summer. This sees the unique landscape reveal its own special charm, when the intense purple of the heath-er blossoms between the green junipers ac-centuates the scenery. That’s when it’s time for cyclists and hikers to actively enjoy the landscape, when the scent of summery flow-ers is in the air. Niedersachsen’s largest holi-day region can be intensively explored by bike. “Experience” the landscape away from major roads on quiet cycling tracks in a charming heath, forest and river landscape. Order our free cycling brochure now atwww.lueneburger-heide.de/kataloge

The Lüneburger Heide is one of Europe’s most famous regions, with the heather blooming season in late summer. This sees the unique landscape reveal its own special

charm, when the intense purple of the heath-er blossoms between the green junipers ac-centuates the scenery. That’s when it’s time for cyclists and hikers to actively enjoy the landscape, when the scent of summery flow-ers is in the air. Niedersachsen’s largest holi-day region can be intensively explored by bike. “Experience” the landscape away from major roads on quiet cycling tracks in a charming heath, forest and river landscape. Order our free cycling brochure now atwww.lueneburger-heide.de

You’ll always be one jump ahead with the latest sports trend: Nordic Walking. With our 860-km-long Nordic Walking network, the Lüneburger Heide offers you a special way to train your body in a health-conscious manner.

The Lüneburger Heide is a Mecca for horse lovers: Riding through heath landscapes, moors and river landscapes offers a wide variety of activities for all levels.

Lüneburger Heidewww.lueneburger-heide.de

10

From the premium Aller-Radweg, to the Natur-Erlebnis-Rad-weg along the Ilmenau, to the selected local bike rides, the Lüneburger Heide offers special themed and riverside cy-cling tracks over a 2,000-km network. “Experience” the Lüneburger Heide and enjoy a special natural and cultur-al adventure.

The hiking tracks in the Lüneburger Heide are as diverse and theme-oriented as the landscape it-self. From the four special themed hiking tracks to the European long-distance hiking track, to the St. James’ pilgrimage route, the Lüneburger Heide has something for everyone. Let the landscape thrill you in absolute tranquillity!www.lueneburger-heide.de

Uninterrupted natural experiencein blooming landscapes

18 east

Children are welcome: Grandparents show grandchildren the country life, where there are real cows, where ponies and small cats are the hosts, and where romping in the hay and straw is al-lowed.

Your four-legged friends can also be taken along as part of the “Pets welcome” package! Trips to the colourful cottage gardens can be booked as a day tour, with a personal tour or as a whole country garden week. Active guests can also book cycling tours, hikes or a round of farmstead golf or swin golf as a package. The day tours with garden visits can be booked from just 58 €

per person, and the whole country garden week package from 465 € per person with accommodation/breakfast in a holiday apartment for 6 to 30 people.

During the harvest in autumn, “preserve” holidays with valuable tips and old recipes are also on the agenda. From cooking apple sauce, to pickling pumpkin, to preserving Zwetschgenmus, there’s something for everyone. This is a real “must” for gourmets or any-body wanting to be one.

Trudge through the snow in the clear air during the winter holidays and feed the wild animals with the forest farmers, before listening to Low-German hunting tales cosily by the fire in the evening.

A wide range of offers from tofishing

preserving fruit

Farmstead holidays - a motivation to head to the country

From farmstead to farmstead, and sleeping in the hay at night – that’s been our idea for real nature lov-ers and adventurous cyclists since 1985. Please bring a sleeping bag and torch. Accommodation with breakfast from 15.55 €.

Tip

Farmstead holidays throughout all Niedersachsen, whether from the North Sea to the Harz Mountains or from the Lüneburger Hei-de to the Emsland region, are a great, original idea for lovers of the countryside. We create individual itineraries for you, and awaken your secret desire to head to the country to sail and cook Zwetschgenmus (plum butter) – and that applies to all ages, from zero to one hundred.

Book your birthday package: You’ll celebrate it at the farmstead with your whole family, and indulge in homemade gateaux in the cottage garden. A full weekend for 6 people at recognised holi-day farmsteads (rated 3-star and up) can be booked from 300 €.

Bauernhofferien in ganz Niedersachsenwww.bauernhofferien.de 11

Want to enjoy a week of horse-riding at stylish stables in the Lüneburger Heide, and book a junior itinerary if necessary? At www.bettundbox.de, you’ll find recognised holiday stables from the North Sea to the Weserbergland region, regardless of wheth-er you want to learn how to horse ride, drive a carriage, or book a children’s horse-riding holiday. Welcome to the horse-riding re-gion of Niedersachsen. www.heuhotelferien.de

19

It’s time to head south!Holidays by the sea or into the mountains? Are you one of those who can’t decide? Then just do both! In southern Niedersachsen, active holidaymakers will find everything their hearts desire. Whether it be climbing and mountain-biking in the Harz Mountains, cycling and kayaking in the Weserbergland region, hiking and walking in the Braunschweig region, or surfing and sailing on Lake Steinhude – anything is possible! Plus much more … Accompany us on our journey through southern Niedersachsen.

It starts at the Harzer-Hexen-Stieg. From Osterode in Niedersachsen to Sachsen-Anhalt, we’ll hike along one of Germany’s finest hiking tracks, right through the Harz Mountains. We’ll pass by native spruces, bluffs and moor landscapes, over alpine meadows, and through mixed forests – never failing to sense the magic in the air. “Do witches really live here? Only the good ones!” Another sip of fresh spring water and then suspense levels rise – just like the slope it-self. We’ve just reached the “highlight”: the “Grand Canyon” of Niedersachsen. At a height of just under 1,000 metres, we look out over valleys, forests and mountains from the second highest peak of the Harz mountains, the Wurmberg – simply amazing!

20 south

“Look, it’s snowing!” Dense snowflakes transform the landscape into a winter wonderland.Fasten the skis to your boots and let’s go: cross-country or downhill? It’s your choice. While some indulge in a snowball fight or go tobogganing, lovers enjoy the win-ter landscape during a romantic walk along the Liebes-bankweg in Hahnenklee – the perfect place to declare one’s love. In the 1,000-year-old town of Goslar, we’ll warm up over a cup of tea in one of the small cafés, be-fore taking a stroll through the romantic laneways.

We hop on our mountain bike “at the place where the Werra and Fulda kiss …” (as written on a sign at the Weserstein). Now it’s time to get adventurous! Await-ing us on the Weserbergland-Weg from Hannoversch Münden to Minden are rapid descents and the stories of the legendary Baron Münchhausen, also known as the Baron of Lies. Prefer things a little more reflective and contemplative? Then we recommend the Loccum-Volken-roda pilgrimage trail. Or you can hike among magical landscape to Sleeping Beauty’s Castle in Sababurg. Of course, you can also explore the Weserbergland region from the water. The rivers Fulda, Werra and Weser invite you to climb aboard a canoe or kayak.

Whether on foot or by bike, we continue on through the Braunschweig “time-travel region”. We’ll travel from the past into the future at various “ZeitOrte”. Be surprised! Freshly bathed after a dip in Lake Salzgit-tersee, it’s time to head along the Leine-Heide-Radweg cycling track. Starting at the source of the Leine in the Thuringian district of Eichsfeld, we’ll cycle past orchards, wooded mountain ridges, the Northeimer Seenplatten and towns with stunning half-timbered architecture. In Einbeck, we’ll quench our thirst with a famous Einbeck bock beer. “Cheers!”

We arrive in Hannover with a spring in our step. Those who want to can go on a shopping tour to the Old Town, explore Lake Maschsee on a steamboat ride, or enjoy a picnic in the Herrenhäuser Baroque Gardens. And for those who still want more exercise, we recom-mend a cycling tour in the Deister Mountains or a cruise on Lake Steinhude.

“Are we all back?” A final spurt through the forest and moors characterising the river landscape of the Aller-Leine Valley to the Lüneburger Heide, the region which is home to Germany’s largest concentration of leisure parks.

21south

Crossing the Harz Mountains on the Harzer-Hexen-Stieg (Harz witch trail) is devilishly wonderful and hellishly exciting. Between the starting point in Osterode in Niedersachsen and the finish in Thale in Sachsen-Anhalt lie 94 unique kilometres revealing to hikers the wide variety that Germany’s most northerly wooded mountains have to offer: Historic ore and silver mining in all its facets – the Oberharz water management system has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010; the legendary moun-tain wilderness of Harz National Park – native spruce and mixed forests between alpine meadows, moors and bluffs; the former Iron Curtain at what was once the internal German border – today a habitat for rare flora and fauna, known as the Green Belt; Germany’s largest dam system which, with the Oderteich reservoir completed in 1721, also includes Germany’s oldest

dam; the “Grand Canyon of the Harz” – the Bodetal Val-ley, Central Europe’s deepest rock valley north of the Alps and of course the Brocken – soaring 1,141 metres high, this peak, towering over everything else, is the proverbial high-light of the tour and can be seen for miles. The Harzer-Hex-en-Stieg is one of the so called „Top Trails of Germany“ and therefore one of the countries top-quality hiking tracks and was elected as the best hiking trail of 2008 by “Wander-magazin”: It thus offers the best conditions for a few days of restorative hiking amongst mountains, forests and water.

Harzer-Hexen-Stieg

Harzer Tourismusverbandwww.harzinfo.de

12

The historic Grube Samson mechanical engineering monument in St. An-dreasberg is particularly worth a visit. The former silver ore mine is part of the Oberharz water management system UNESCO World Heritage Site, and, apart from two water wheels, is also home to a fully function-ing man engine.www.sankt-andreasberg.de

Tip

The detailed brochure on the Harzer-Hexen-Stieg, with route and town descriptions, tips & info, hosts and packages, is available free of charge from the Harz Tourism Association, as is the official hiking map and other hiking tips, sug-gested tours and helpful information about holi-daying in the Harz region.www.harzer-hexen-stieg.de

22 south

Hahnenklee-Bockswiesewww.hahnenklee.de

13

During your hike along the Liebesbankweg, you’ll come across 3 different control points. Quickly have a print taken and show it to the Tourist Infor-mation Office or one of the issuing centres. As a souvenir, you’ll be given your personal certificate with your name and the date on which you suc-cessfully hiked the Liebesbankweg.

Magical forests and crystal-clear lakes – explore the network of hiking trails around Hahnenklee-Bockswiese and enjoy un-forgettable views over the Harz foreland. Use all your sens-es to discover the full beauty of the Oberharz water man-agement system, which was added to the “Rammelsberg ore mine and Goslar Old Town” UNESCO World Heritage Site in August.

Stroll along the 7-km-long Liebesbankweg, the first premium hiking trail in the Harz region and Niedersachsen, and be enchanted by the 25 individually designed love seats. The trail is ideal for all age groups, and offers breathtaking ex-amples of nature.

Even in winter, when the forest is buried under a thick blan-ket of snow, the cleared hiking tracks can easily be used, and also enable fantastic toboggan rides, among other things. Of course, the mountains are also conducive to cross-country skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding. NEW this winter season: The 2-km-long snow shoe hiking track.

– Simply “wanderful” in any seasonHahnenklee

The thousand-year-old city of Goslar is an exciting urban des-tination which is also located in a spectacular natural setting right by the Harz Mountains. Its unique character and cultur-al treasures such as the historic Old Town centre, churches and museums make for a special experience (not just) for cul-ture vultures, but also for those who just want to relax when on holiday. The atmosphere in the narrow laneways or at the lively marketplace with its cafés and restaurants is conducive to strolling around and enjoying.

The Rammelsberg ore mine and the Goslar Old Town were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992; the “Oberharzer Wasserwirtschaft” (Ober-harz water management system) was added to this in 2010. This distinction once again demonstrates the city’s harmony with the Harz region’s nature, which you can discover from Goslar in many differ-ent ways. The Goslar hosts look forward to welcom-ing you, and particularly cater to the needs of moun-tain bikers, hikers or motorcyclists.

Urban holiday in the spectacular natural setting of the Harz region

Goslar

Guided hikes through the “Oberharzer Wasser-wirtschaft” UNESCO World Heritage Site and along the dykes, trenches and waterways in the Harz Mountains, which have been used for cen-turies to generate power, will be offered by the Tourist Information area of GOSLAR marketing gmbH from 2011. Discover a fascinating mix of nature and culture!

Goslarwww.goslar.de

14

23south

WeserberglandWonderful for wandering

Remote forest pathways and unusual land-scapes make hiking in the Weserbergland region an unforgettable experience.

The Weserbergland-Weg, which runs for around 200 kilometres from the Weser-bergland to the Mittelweser region, is a real challenge. The trail heads past roman-tic palaces and castles, through living high moors, primeval forests and floodplains, as well as up mountains offering magical views. With this potential, it’s no wonder the trail is currently preparing to be certi-fied as a top-quality hiking track.

The Loccum-Volkenrodas pilgrimage route is another experience to be had in the Weserbergland region. Over 300 kilome-tres, it follows the ancient footsteps of Cis-tercian monks. You’ll see monasteries and impressive nature at every turn – the per-fect trail for a temporary escape from eve-ryday life.

Apart from numerous shorter hiking tracks, you can also grab your sticks and explore the over 90 routes in the Weserbergland Nordic Walking Park.

Choose your own personal outdoor experience!

Geocaching – the modern-day scavenger hunt in the Weserbergland region

Geocaching, the modern-day scavenger hunt with GPS receiver is loads of fun for young and old. The GPS receivers are satellite-controlled navigation devices, allowing hiders who have hidden other “caches” – in the city, in the villag-es, or even in the forest – to be found.www.weserbergland-tourismus.de

Weserbergland-Weg – A week of hiking through one of Germany’s best hiking regions

The Weserbergland-Weg runs from Hann. Münden to Porta Westfalica. For example, you can hike a stretch starting at the home of Baron Münch-hausen, heading through the Hochsolling region, the Huguenot city of Bad Karlshafen, past Sleeping Beauty’s castle at Sababurg, until you reach the Uslarer Land region. www.weserbergland-tourismus.de

24 south

Impressive natural landscapes, fairytale characters and gems of the Weser Renais-sance – there’s a plethora of things to dis-cover and experience at every turn of the many cycling tracks.

Start your tour on one of Germany’s most popular long-distance cycling tracks – the Weser-Radweg. Spanning over 500 kil-ometres, it heads from the source of the Weser to its mouth at the North Sea. As there are very few climbs, this track is also suitable for amateurs and families.

The D-Route 3 is another long-distance cy-cling track which heads through the Weser-bergland region. It is the German section of the Euro-Route R1. D-Route 3 covers 940 kilometres, from the Dutch to the Polish bor-der, and promises a multitude of variation. But the Weserbergland region also has a lot more to offer: The Deisterkreisel heads around the northernmost low mountain range, the Schaumburger Land is home to themed routes, and the Hochsolling region offers rapid descents for mountain bikers.

Have you packed your desire for cycling? Then off you go to the Weserbergland region! One of Europe’s most culturally amazing river landscapes awaits!

Cycling holiday

Weserbergland Tourismus e. V.www.weserbergland-tourismus.de

15

Cycling tracks in the Weserbergland – combined the clever way

You choose where you start and end your cycling tour. Determine the lengths of the stages and the number of days; perhaps you’d like to incorporate rest days at inter-esting places – anything is possible. For ex-ample, you can choose from the Weser-Radweg and the D-Route 3, or try one of the themed cycling tours.www.weserbergland-tourismus.de

movelo – cycling the clever way

With the movelo e-bikes, you’ll be able to overcome even the steeper trails in the Weserbergland and reach your destination effortlessly. The e-bike technology supports your natural rhythm and particularly comes into play when your strength diminishes. A network of bike hire and bat-tery-change stations guarantee you unlimited mobility.www.movelo.de

25south

“At the place where the Werra and Fulda kiss …”, at the start of the Weser, is the half-timbered town of Hann. Münden, renown across Europe. Over 700 half-timbered houses from 6 centuries, medieval fort complexes, idyllic laneways and streets invite you to stroll around and linger in the shops, which are even open on Sundays. Apart from cultural high-lights such as the Weser Renaissance town hall, the Welfen-schloss and the fully heritage-listed half-timbered Old Town, visitors also enjoy the recreational options available for tour-ists: Cruises on the three rivers, canoe and kayak hiring sta-tions and a well-developed waterway infrastructure with jet-ties and canoe rest stops. Hann. Münden is the starting point for four long-distance cycling tracks into the river valleys of the Werra, Fulda and Weser or into the Harz Mountains, with over 1,000 kilometres of signposted, family-friendly cy-cling trails.

Hikes and pilgrimages are very popular in this region. Monas-teries, palaces, castles, the Grimm brothers’ fairytale charac-ters, as well as vast forest districts and river views, accompa-ny hikers on the pilgrimage trail from Loccum to Volkenroda, on the Werra-Burgen-Steig, on the Weserbergland-Wander-weg or on the Märchenlandweg from Hann. Münden.

From 4-star hotels to camping grounds or caravan parks, there are holiday lodgings to suit every taste and budget, and they can be booked online. The tourist information office offers extensive information on all itineraries in your native language at www.hann.muenden-tourismus.de

Touristik Naturpark Münden e. V.www.hann.muenden-tourismus.de

16

Easy river discovery tours from Hann. Münden:

Hann. Münden, the city of three rivers, will be your base for relaxed and interesting cycling tours to the river valleys, past castles, palaces and small half-tim-bered towns. 5 days with 4 nights, bike and passen-ger shuttle, map material, city tour, from € 199.00 p.p.www.hann.muenden-tourismus.de/fahrradtouren.html

Hikes and pilgrimages:

Starting in Hann. Münden, hike along ancient cultural paths such as the pilgrimage route from Loccum to Volkenroda, the Werra-Burgen-Steig or the Weserberglandwanderweg. Along the way, you’ll be accompanied by vast beech and oak forests, unique river views, castles and pal-aces, good food and warm hospitality.www.hann.muenden-tourismus.de/aktiv/the-menwanderwege.html

Hann. MündenCity of three rivers and half-timbering

26 south

– Take a journey through timeWelcome to the land of time travel!The rich history of this region manifests itself in treasures of the past, trendsetters of the present time and laboratories of the future.

ZeitOrte are historic settings such as excavated, geologically unique phenomena, archaeological excavations, medieval buildings or com-plexes, libraries of the Enlightenment, old factory premises, modern sites of art and architecture, museums of the future and world-renowned pro-duction facilities.

During your cycling tours and hikes through the region, set off in search of the traces of time: From insights into geology at the UNESCO GeoPark Braunschweiger Land, medieval manors and baroque churches, industrial monuments or nature trails, to attractions of the present.

This land of time travel is full of offers for active visitors:… Relax with sport (and not just waterskiing) on Lake Salzgittersee or in the Allerpark Wolfsburg… Canoe rides on the Aller and Fuhse or on the Oker, even through Braunschweig… Play disc golf in Wolfenbüttel… Cycling/hiking in the Südheide Gifhorn on the Weser-Harz-Heide-Radweg and the Allerradweg … Themed tours through the Elm-Lappwald and the Peiner Land region

Discover the ZeitOrte actively!Exciting and very varied experiences from ancient times to the present are guaranteed. Take as much time as you need!

Heide | BraunschweigerLAND | Harzwww.ZeitOrte.de

17

Heide | BraunschweigerLAND | Harz

ZeitOrte

Find your own fossil!

From the Neolithic to the Middle Ages, our ances-tors collected the stem ossicles of sea lilies – also known as crinoids – to make jewellery and medi-cines. The “crinoidal lime” has decomposed in the “Am Markmorgen” quarry in Evessen, where all types of discoverers regularly conduct research and find 240-million-year-old fossils of sea lilies, clams and other shell-limestone inhabitants.

The Geopark Harz | Braunschweiger Land | Ostfalen looks forward to your visit.www.ZeitOrte.de

Tip

27south

The way the network of cycling tracks in and around Hannover criss-crosses the re-gion looks as if it has been spun by a spider. 15 routes heading in all directions start from Lake Maschsee in Hannover’s inner city alone. They can be explored as day tours or be the starting point for mul-ti-day discovery tours to the natural treas-ures around Hannover.

At the edge of the Deister, Hannover’s lo-cal mountain, the Deisterkreisel leads to idyllic Haufendörfer (scattered villages), long avenues, gnarled dwarf beeches, untouched brook valleys and time-hon-oured health resorts.

The shallow Lake Steinhude, the largest in-land lake in north-west Germany, is ideal for bathing holidays with the whole fam-ily, and, with an area of around 32 km², can be easily circumnavigated. Nature lovers will enjoy the tranquillity of the na-ture park of the same name, located right by the water.

The Aller-Radweg crosses the Leine-Hei-de-Radweg in Schwarmstedt, thus offer-ing further opportunities to ride by the water. From here, it’s a relaxed one-day stage to the homely half-timbered royal residence town of Celle or to one of the leisure parks and zoos.

Hannover, the starting point for cycling tours, offers great daytrip destinations right at its doorstep, such as the Hannover Erlebnis-Zoo and Herrenhäuser Gardens. In the evening, visit the GOP-Varieté thea-tre or relax your tired legs with a visit to the Aspria Spa right by Lake Maschsee.

Active recreation in the Hannover tourist region

Tourismus Region Hannover e. V.www.tourismusregion-hannover.de

18

The charming “Deisterkreisel” runs for 80 km around Hannover’s local moun-tain, the Deister. You should allow 2 to 3 days to cover it. Attractions: Display mine in Barsinghausen, grain distillery in Wennigsen/Bredenbeck, Wisent game park and hunting lodge in Springe, land-grave’s thermal spa in Bad Nenndorf and a health resort with salt works in Bad Münder. www.tourismusregion-hannover.de/Aktivitaeten_Fahrrad_de.bspx

Spanning 60 km between Sarstedt and Bad Gandersheim, the “Rad-weg zur Kunst” offers a plethora of artistic treasures. Art-loving cy-clists will find this an exciting experience. You should treat yourself to at least one full day in Hildesheim and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the historic marketplace with the Knochen-hauer Amtshaus.www.tourismusregion-hannover.de/Aktivitaeten_Fahrrad_de.bspx

28 south

The Leine-Heide-Radweg starts at the source of the Leine in Thuringia’s Eichsfeld district – a landscape characterised by wooded mountains and orchards. As you follow the Leine, you will pass through interesting settlements with historic Old Towns until you reach the former border between East and West Germany. The re-gion’s border museum explains the influ-ence it had on the lives of the people.

Half-timbered architecture and modernity enliven the old university town of Göttin-gen, with its many churches and museums. A little further on, the Northeimer Seen-platte gives nature lovers the opportunity to take a refreshing swim or rest on the banks of one of the many bodies of water.

Soon after, we reach Einbeck, famous for its brewing tradition and the very well-preserved medieval centre with its richly adorned half-timbered houses.

On the way to Hannover, you can also ad-mire half-timbered architecture in Alfeld and Gronau, before choosing from the Herrenhäuser Gardens, Lake Maschsee or many other attractions in Niedersach-sen’s state capital. From here, the Leine trail heads through the river landscape of the Aller-Leine Valley, characterised by forest and moors.

The cycling track now continues through the Lüneburger Heide, with its many day-trip destinations, such as the Weltvogel-park Walsrode. The 169.2-m-high Wil-seder Berg offers spectacular views over the heath landscape. On a clear day, you can even see the skyline of Hamburg, the trip’s final destination.

Tourismus Region Hannover e. V.www.leine-heide-radweg.de

18

410 diverse kilometres on the Leine-Heide-Radweg

Accommodation options along the route can be found in the “Bed+Bike, bike-friend-ly lodging in Germany” directory. Nu-merous hotels, pensions, guesthouses and camping grounds have catered to the spe-cial needs of cycling tourists, and look for-ward to welcoming them.www.bettundbike.de

The Leine-Heide-Radweg navigator will give you interesting hints and tips on at-tractions, daytrips and bike workshops situated along the way. The zoom func-tion allows you to view your individual stages and calculate the route. www.lknom-navigator.de/lhr

29south

Welcome to the “Wild West”!Welcome to the “Wild West”!Have you ever wanted to gallop through the prairies like a cowboy? Cross borders? Or discover a treas-ure? Then you’ve come to the right place! Because western Niedersachsen, from the Mittelweser, to the Oldenburg Münsterland and Osnabrück region, to the Grafschaft Bentheim, is a real “realm of expe-riences”. Join us on a short adventure through the “Wild West”.

Are you ready? Let’s set off by jumping back into the past. Wearing hiking boots, we’ll promenade through the history of the Osnabrück region, heading past large stone graves attesting to life over 5,000 years ago, in the footsteps of ancient giants to Kalkriese, which was once the scene of the spectacular Varus-schlacht (the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest).

Time for a bit of peace! And you’ll find it not only in the stunning natural setting with moor landscapes and the wooded hills of the Teutoburg Forest, but also in the peace city of Osnabrück. In 1648, the Peace of Westphalia was declared here on the steps of the town hall, thereby ending the Thirty Year’s War!

30 west

We’ll refuel with some typical Osnabrück Springbrötchen (bread rolls) and then hop on our bikes. We’ll pass by palac-es, small villages and countless farmsteads, before reaching our next destination: the Alfsee reservoir. “Time to change!” We now continue by draisine. Don’t worry, you can’t get lost; the tracks know the way. “Faster! Faster!”

So much work makes you hungry, and the small farm shop is just what we need. First we’ll fill the picnic basket with handmade cheese and fresh fruit from the region, then we’ll fill our hungry stomachs in the rural paradise of the Olden-burg Münsterland. Following Frisian tradition, we continue by “street bowling” (“boßelnd”) through stunning moor and heath landscapes.

Once back on our bikes, it’s already time to prepare ourselves for the next adventure: western riding! “So, who’s game?” Accompanied by romantic river and sea landscapes, we’ll cycle through the Mittelweser region. And while some may decide to fulfil their cowboy dreams, others can plan a ca-noe ride – just like the Indians.

With happy faces and another experience under our belt, we continue with our adventure and discover a treasure be-tween Bremen and Oldenburg: the Wildeshauser Geest Na-ture Park – one of the largest nature parks in Germany. Its idyllic river valleys, blossoming heaths and exciting themed trails invite us to embark on an expedition. “What’s that clat-tering away there?” An enchanted water mill has aroused our curiosity. “And look! A kingfisher!” We enjoy some more time amongst nature over a glass of fresh milk from the Melkhus before continuing on. Next stop: Dümmer See. Now we’ve definitely earned a cool off! While some plunge head-first into the water, others will amuse themselves by surfing, sailing, rowing or taking a paddleboat ride. That’s enough for today – good night!

Rise and shine, it’s time for the next adventure! We continue on to the Dümmer Nature Park, where we have a rendezvous with a dead person. Because apart from themed moor trails, viewing towers and a moor railway, this place is also home to Niedersachsen’s oldest moorland corpse.

We’ll keep riding to the Dutch border, to the Grafschaft Bent-heim. Without realising it, we’re suddenly no longer cycling here – we’re “fietsen”. Passing by the mighty Bentheim Castle and the Vechtahof, which is home to rare breeds of domestic animals, we reach Europe’s largest open-air museum: kunst-wegen. What awaits you there? See for yourself! We won’t reveal more than that ... it’s your adventure after all!

31west

Tourismusverband Osnabrücker Land e. V.www.osnabruecker-land.de

19

Our landscape is like the often-cited fine wine: it gets more attractive and more cov-eted with age. A proud 300 million years of history characterise the nature park in the Osnabrück region, which is a reflec-tion of fascinating geology and forces of nature, and today thrills visitors with a wide variety of landscapes. TERRA.vita, as the nature park is called, has even had the honour of being the first German na-ture reserve to be included in the UN-ESCO geopark network. Those expecting something special will not be disappoint-ed – provided you’ve packed some time and an appetite for discoveries. Because the Osnabrück region has four adventure regions which perfectly connect culture with nature. And speaking of “connect”: we have lovingly and systematically spun a comfortable web of cycling and hiking trails for you, which, over 3,000 km, will take you to all the attractions.

Have a ramble through the wooded peaks of the Teutoburg Forest and the Wiehen Hills, enjoy a restorative climate in our four vitality spas, discover the gardens, palac-es and parks, and marvel at the legend-ary Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, Europe’s only farmstead culture and the peace city of Osnabrück, which is the only major German city to be located within a nature park. Then it’s time to let rip! We ensure varied forms of exercise. You just have to choose from 10 themed cycling routes, 4 award-winning hiking trails and 5 out-standing golf courses.

We’ll be glad to advise you!

Here, the landscape is the superstar!

We tempt you to push your limits, send you off on peace trails or over 98 bridges, let you go mill hop-ping or following the rivers, or attract you to paradis-es beyond the garden fence!Whether it be a 7-day tour or a wellness holiday stay-ing in one spot: Plan your individual cycling experi-ence with us – enjoying service right from the start! www.osnabruecker-land.dewww.gartentraumtour.dewww.brueckenradweg.dewww.grenzgaengerroute.de

Don’t feel like an ambitious race to the top, but still want lots of pleasure and surprises? Then you’re ready for your hiking hol-iday with us! Get to know our “DiVa”, hike along the sea floor at altitudes of no more than 33 m or discover cultural monu-ments older than the pyramids over 208 easy kilometres! Welcome!www.osnabruecker-land.dewww.huenenweg.de www.divawalk.de

32 west

Experience the rural life in the Oldenburg Münsterland dur-ing a cycling tour on the “Boxenstopp-Route” cycling circuit. Numerous farm cafés, country inns, freshly made farm prod-ucts and cosy hotels and guesthouse invite you to take a re-laxing break. Ask for our free route map with accompanying brochure! Our three-day pit-stop taster tour can be booked from just 119 €!

The holiday park meets the highest standards, and its very vast grounds include a 5-star camping facility, individual holiday houses, modern holiday apartments and the 3-star Piazza hotel. There’s lots to discover: The stunning atmosphere amongst lush nature, and daytrips into the un-touched landscape by bike or hike. Elaborate cycling routes or guided tours lead to the most beautiful places.Those who want to can go on expeditions from the Alfsee. Interesting towns, villages and palaces are situated around the lake, from the cloth-ier museum to the site of the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest. But the ex-perience of riding a draisine is also yours to discover.

The highlights for active people include the water-ski funiculars, the Alf-see carting track and the Bullermeck indoor fun centre. Wine and dine in the various restaurants and cafés. A diverse events calendar rang-ing from live music to comedy ensures good entertainment. Special chil-dren’s programmes are particularly popular among the young ones.

Verbund Oldenburger Münsterland e. V.www.oldenburger-muensterland.de21

Osnabrücker Land · Alfseewww.alfsee.de20

Alfsee – Holiday paradise for nature

lovers and active people

Pit-stops to refuel, breathe deeply and feel good

Cyclist’s paradise around the Alfsee. Cyclists in partic-ular will enjoy the ideal conditions around the Alfsee: rolling hills, vast plains, lots of greenery and little traf-fic. You can also set off towards worthwhile destina-tions in the surrounding area. Interesting tours for one-day stages, as well as guided tours, are on offer.www.alfsee.de

33west

Relaxing and being active in time with nature: whether it be bike-riding, horse-riding or canoeing, whether you’re young or old, the Mittelweser-Region has a wide variety of activities on offer. Be enchanted and discover the region on two wheels. Apart from the Meerweg, the Weser-Radweg is also very well-known and popular. It runs from the Weserbergland through the Mittelweser-Region to the North Sea. Even further away from this track, there is a plethora of themed cycling routes which, given that they are so flat, are also suitable for the little ones in the family. But it’s not just cyclists who get their money’s work in the Mittelweser-Region. Horse-riding activities range from pony rides for kids, to western riding, to trail riding. And things are exciting on the water too. Depending on your mood, the beauty of nature can be enjoyed by canoe or motorboat on one of the many streams and rivers.

Feel the pulse of nature in the Mittelweser-Region!

Mittelweser-Regionwww.mittelweser-tourismus.de

22

Cycling by the water! Over five days, you’ll get to know 3 rivers and 1 lake in the middle of Niedersachsen. The Leine, Aller, Weser and Lake Steinhude guaran-tee a varied cycling holiday. Luggage transfers are taken care of. The day stages are between 45 and 60 km in length, making them easy to complete even for amateurs.www.mittelweser-tourismus.de

Wildeshauser Geest Nature Park With paddles

& on pedals

Naturpark Wildeshauser Geestwildegeest.de · www.steinzeitreise.de www.hunte-natur.de

23

A secret tip for all those wanting to escape hectic everyday life and who love relaxed holidays. The Wildeshauser Geest Na-ture Park, situated between the cities of Oldenburg and Bremen, thrills visitors with its scenic gems. Idyllic river valleys, forests and moors alternate with sand dunes and heaths. One-day and mul-ti-day tours perfectly combine impressive structural and archae-ological monuments from the Stone Age and Middle Ages, wa-ter mills and wind mills located in enchanted settings, sculpture pathways and beautiful gardens. The 11 Melkhüs in the nature park make for original places to stop. You can freshen up and refuel with some milk and yoghurt products. A canoe ride on the Hunte is a particularly enjoyable natural experience. At a lei-surely pace and with a bit of luck, you’ll discover sand martins, common sandpipers, kingfishers and dragonflies. After gaining so many different impressions and engaging in sporting activi-ties, spend the evening indulging in the local cuisine with deli-cious regional dishes.

The 4-day “City, country, whispering moors” cycling route per-fectly combines a natural experience with cultural pleasure. At-tractions: Ahlhorner Fischteiche Nature Reserve, Hasbruch pri-meval forest, Goldenstedter Moor natural experience centre, monastery ruins and water mills in Hude, the aristocratic Bas-sum monastery and much more. Enjoy the days of active recov-ery and relaxation.www.Genießer-Tage-Natur.de.

34 west

In the south-west is the water-sport El Dorado that is the Dümmer-See with its dyke track and beaches, in the east is the Weser, and in be-tween are the vast heath landscapes of the Diepholz moors – these are the landscapes of the magical DümmerWeserLand holiday region in the heart of Niedersachsen, which are best explored by bike! The Dümmer Nature Park, as well as the best-preserved moor region in Niedersachsen, with internationally renowned wetlands, invites you to experience its viewing tours, moor adventure tracks, moor rail-ways, draisines and Niedersachsen’s oldest moorland corpse. Around 40,000 cranes come to rest every autumn, mak-ing for an impressive sight.www.duemmerweserland.de Actively experiencing the water

and the interiorThe Dümmer, the second largest inland lake in north-west Germany, is not only a wonder-ful place for sailing and surfing, but is also the leisure region for active people! Situated

at the heart of the Dümmer Nature Park, the lake borders vast high moors, and is nestled between the Stemweder Berg and the Dammer Mountains. In this attractive landscape, elaborate tours on good cycling and hiking tracks ensure you get to see the most diverse side of nature. However, the “Dümmer Tour” and “Düm-mer Villages Tour” also offer cyclists good eateries, recreational facilities and historically charming towns. Water sport, swimming, boat cruises, museums and lots of events add to the holiday pro-gramme in the Dümmerland region. www.duemmer.de

Dümmerland,the cycling and hiking paradise

Bathers and water enthusiasts certainly get their money’s worth at the Dümmer-See, which is no more than 1.5 m deep. Apart from sailing, surfing, rowing and riding paddleboats, you can also take canoe tours on the Lohne or the Hunte. From April to October, sailing boats cast off from four Dümmer harbours almost every hour for lake crossings or cruises.

Cycling in the DümmerWeserLand is easy with the free 18 tours cycling brochure! The 20 to 60-km-long, flat tours head through unique natural settings in the Dümmer Nature Park and the Die-pholz moors. By the roadside on all tours: Excellent places to stop and interesting attractions, e.g. Ströhen Zoo.www.duemmerweserland.de

Dümmer-See und Dümmerlandwww.duemmer.de 24

35west

The county of Bentheim lies right on the Dutch border. Bike-riding is called “fi-etsen” here. In the south, around Bad Bentheim, and in the north-west, around Uelsen, the landscape is slightly hilly, but otherwise has no major climbs. Along the rivers and canals, and through moors, heaths and forests, the “Fietse” almost seems to run on its own. You can experience the entire county over approx. 1,000 kilometres of well-developed, well-signposted cycling tracks on the “Grafschafter Fietsentour”. Eu-rope’s largest open-air museum – kunstwegen – is situated in the

Vechtetal Valley, between Nordhorn and Zwolle. 60 objets d’art combine nature and art in a unique manner here. Art enthusi-asts encounter nature – nature lovers discover art. Fietsen buses run through the entire county; bikes are put in the trailer, and you can get off at any of the “Fietsenbus” stops. Popular daytrip destinations include the mighty Bentheim Castle and the zoo in Nordhorn, whose Vechtehof is home to almost extinct breeds of domestic animals. Discover Nordhorn from a duck’s perspective

or climb the sandstone rocks of the Isterberg. In the far north, the Bourtanger Moor, a once giant high moor, extends into the Grafschaft Bentheim. Experience the authentic landscape and discover the histories of peat farmers and smugglers.

Grafschaft Bentheim – Unlimited cycling

Crossing borders by bike

The cycling tracks in the Grafschaft Bentheim cross bor-ders. You can continue on into the Netherlands at any time, as the networks of tracks are interconnected. Dis-cover where the Capri moon rises, where Bentheim sandstone is quarried or where an entire town revolves around starch.

Hiking old trails

Merchants used to take their wares to the Netherlands to sell them there. Today, you can enjoy wonderful hikes along these old trade routes. Discover the Podag-ristenpad from Coevorden to Bad Bentheim, and learn why three older Dutchmen once hit the road.

Grafschaft Bentheim Tourismus e. V.www.grafschaft-bentheim-tourismus.de 25

36 west

Nordseebad SpiekeroogGmbH Kurverwaltung & Schifffahrt Noorderpad 2526474 Spiekeroogt +49 (0) 4976 9193-101f +49 (0) 4976 [email protected] www.spiekeroog.de

Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbHLedastrasse 1026789 Leert +49 (0) 491 91 96 96 60f +49 (0) 491 91 96 96 [email protected] www.ostfriesland-tourism.com

Tourismusverband Landkreis Stade/Elbe e. V.Kirchenstieg 3021720 Grünendeicht +49 (0) 4142 813838f +49 (0) 4142 813840info@tourismusverband-stade.dewww.urlaubsregion-altesland.de

Kulturland TeufelsmoorBergstraße 1327726 Worpswedet +49 (0) 4792 93 58 20f +49 (0) 4792 93 58 [email protected] www.teufelsmoor.de

Schlosspark LütetsburgLandstraße 5526524 Lütetsburgt +49 (0) 4931 42 54f +49 (0) 4931 42 [email protected] www.schlosspark-luetetsburg.de

Emsland Touristik GmbHOrdeniederung 149716 Meppent +49 (0) 5931 442266f +49 (0) 5931 [email protected] www.emsland.com

Elbtalaue-Wendland Touristik GmbHRundling Lübeln 229482 Küstent +49 (0) 5841 96 29 0 f +49 (0) 5841 96 29 [email protected]

Biosphärenreservatsverwaltung Niedersächsische ElbtalaueAm Markt 129456 Hitzacker (Elbe)t +49 (0) 5862 9673-0f +49 (0) 5862 9673-20info@elbtalaue.niedersachsen.dewww.elbtalaue.niedersachsen.de

Flusslandschaft Elbe GmbHSchlossstraße 1021354 Bleckedet +49 (0) 5852 951988-0f +49 (0) 5852 [email protected]

Naturpark Elbhöhen-Wendland e. V. Königsberger Straße 1029439 Lüchow (Wendland) t +49 (0) 58 41 120 540f +49 (0) 58 41 120 509 naturpark@luechow-dannenberg.dewww.naturpark-elbhoehen-wendland.de

Arbeitsgemeinschaft Urlaub und Freizeit auf dem Lande e. V. NiedersachsenLindhooper Straße 63 27283 Verden/Allert +49 (0) 4231 9665-0f +49 (0) 4231 [email protected]

Lüneburger Heide GmbHWallstr. 421335 Lüneburgt +49 (0) 700 20 99 30 99f +49 (0) 4131 30 98 [email protected] www.lueneburger-heide.de

Harz –Harzer Tourismusverband e. V.Marktstrasse 4538640 Goslart +49 (0) 5321 3404-0f +49 (0) 5321 [email protected] www.harzinfo.de

HAHNENKLEE tourismus marketing gmbhKurhausweg 738644 Goslar-Hahnenkleet +49 (0) 5325 5104-0f +49 (0) 5325 [email protected] www.hahnenklee.de

GOSLAR marketing gmbhMarkt 738640 Goslart +49 (0) 5321 7806-0 f +49 (0) 5321 [email protected]

Weserbergland Tourismus e. V.Postfach 10 03 3931753 Hamelnt +49 (0) 5151 93 00-0f +49 (0) 5151 93 [email protected] www.weserbergland-tourismus.de

Touristik Naturpark Münden e. V.Rathaus, Lotzestr. 234346 Hann. Mündent +49 (0) 5541 75-313 und -343 f +49 (0) 5541 75-404info@hann.muenden-tourismus.dewww.hann.muenden-tourismus.de

ZeitOrte – TourismusRegion BraunschweigerLAND e. V.Willy-Brandt-Platz 338440 Wolfsburgt +49 (0) 5361 89993-33f +49 (0) 5361 [email protected] www.ZeitOrte.de

Tourismus Region Hannover e. V.Prinzenstraße 1230159 Hannovert +49 (0) 511 3661981f +49 (0) 511 [email protected] www.tourismusregion-hannover.de

Tourismusverband Osnabrücker Land e. V.Krahnstraße 53/5349074 Osnabrückt +49 (0) 541 9511195f +49 (0) 541 [email protected] www.osnabruecker-land.de

Osnabrücker Land – AlfseeAm Campingpark 1049597 Riestet +49 (0) 5464 92120f +49 (0) 5464 [email protected] www.alfsee.de

Verbund OldenburgerMünsterland e. V.Oldenburger Straße 24649377 Vechtat +49 (0) 4441 95 65 0f +49 (0) 4441 95 65 [email protected] www.oldenburger-muensterland.de

Südheide Gifhorn GmbHMarktplatz 138518 Gifhornt +49 (0) 5371 88-175f +49 (0) 5371 [email protected]

Die Nordsee GmbH Postfach 2106 26414 Schortenst +49 (0) 4421 9560991 f +49 (0) 4421 [email protected]

How to reach your hosts for an active holiday in Niedersachsen:

1

9

18

19

20

21

10

11

13

14

12

15

16

17

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

37

Wald

Städtischer Ballungsraumüber 100000 Einwohner

Flüsse

Gewässer

Autobahn

Sonstige Straßen(in Auswahl)

Bundesstraße

Eisenbahn mitPersonenverkehr Kanäle

FähreKatamaran

Unter 15000 Einwohner

Über 15000 Einwohner

Über 30 000 Einwohner


FALLERSLEBEN Friedeburg Neuhaus

LebenstedtHARBURGDAMME Vechelde

BREMENLÜNEBURG

LAATZEN Seevetal

HORNBURG

Städte Stadtteile Gemeinden Gemeindeteile

Unter 15 000 Einwohner





30

Erlebnis-Tipps

Kultur-Tipps

Nationalpark

Flughafen

ICE-Bahnhof

30 km20100

Maßstab 1: ???LGN 2008

Erlebnis-Tipps

Kultur-Tipps

Nationalpark

Flughafen

ICE-Bahnhof

Autobahn

Sonstige Straßen

Bundesstraße

Eisenbahn mit Personenverkehr

FähreKatamaran

30

Städtischer Ballungsraumüber 100000 Einwohner

Unter 15000 Einwohner

Über 15000 Einwohner



Flüsse

Gewässer

Kanäle

Stadt / Stadtteil

Gemeinde / Gemeindeteil

In Niedersachsen sind alle Städte und Gemeinden verzeichnet.Bei Samtgemeinden ist die Gemeinde mit dem Sitz der Samtgemeindeverwaltungverzeichnet.Außerhalb Niedersachsens sind alle Städte verzeichnet. Bei Gemeinden, Verwaltungsgemein-schaften und Ämtern sind die Orte mit dem Sitz der Verwaltung nur in Auswahl verzeichnet.

Kreisfreie Stadt /Stadt mit Sitz einer Kreisverwaltung

29

28

31

31

31

1

1

27

27

7

7

7

7

30

302

2

39

38

395

250

28

39

33

Nordseeküste

Grafschaft

Bentheim

LüneburgerHeide

OldenburgerMünsterland

Emsland

Ostfr iesland

Hannover Region

Weser- bergland

Osnabrücker Land

Braunschweiger

Land

Mittelweser

Harz

Das Land zwischen

Elbe und Weser

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Sachsen-Anhalt

Thüringen

Nordrhein-Westfalen

Hessen

NIEDERLANDE

Schleswig-Holstein

Brandenburg

2 h

1 h 15 min

45 m

in

45 min30 min

45 min 1 h

30

min

Helgoland H

elgoland

3 h 30 min

4 h 30 min

1 h 3

0 m

in

3 h

2 h 10 min

Helgoland

Steinhude

Hodenhagen

Butjadingen

Werdum

NeuharlingersielDornumersiel BensersielNeßmersiel

HarlesielHorumersiel

Schilling

Sittensen

Hooksiel

Bispingen

Bad Eilsen

NationalparkNiedersächsischesWattenmeer

NationalparkHarz

Borkum

Norderney

30 km20100

Scale 1: 1.800.000LGN 2008

National Park

Cultural Tips

National Park

Airport

ICE Station

Autobahn Motorway

Other Streets

Federal Highways

Commuter Railway

FerryCatamaran

30

City conurbation of more than 100 000 residents

Under 15 000 residents

Over 15 000 residents



Rivers

Lakes and Ponds

Canals

30 km20100

Scale 1: 1.800.000LGN 2008

National Park

Cultural Tips

National Park

Airport

ICE Station

Autobahn Motorway

Other Streets

Federal Highways

Commuter Railway

FerryCatamaran

30






Rivers

Lakes and Ponds

Canals

30 km20100

Scale 1: 1.800.000LGN 2008

National Park

Cultural Tips

National Park

Airport

ICE Station

Autobahn Motorway

Other Streets

Federal Highways

Commuter Railway

FerryCatamaran

30






Rivers

Lakes and Ponds

Canals

30 km20100

Scale 1: 1.800.000LGN 2008

National Park

Cultural Tips

National Park

Airport

ICE Station

Autobahn Motorway

Other Streets

Federal Highways

Commuter Railway

FerryCatamaran

30






Rivers

Lakes and Ponds

Canals

Legend24

25

Dümmer-See und DümmerlandGroße Str. 7649459 Lembrucht +49 (0) 5447 242f +49 (0) 5447 [email protected] www.duemmer.de

Grafschaft Bentheim Tourismus e. V.van-Delden-Str. 1–748529 Nordhornt +49 (0) 5921 961196f +49 (0) 5921 [email protected] www.grafschaft-bentheim-tourismus.de

Mittelweser-Touristik GmbHLange Straße 1831582 Nienburg / Wesert +49 (0) 5021 91763-0f +49 (0) 5021 [email protected] www.mittelweser-tourismus.de

Naturpark Wildeshauser GeestDelmenhorster Straße 627793 Wildeshausent +49 (0)4431 85-351f +49 (0)4431 [email protected] www.wildegeest.de www.steinzeitreise.de www.hunte-natur.de

22

23

38

Events

The northNorth Sea

Mudflats race in DuhnenThe “horse race on the sea floor”, first held in 1902, is considered the most unusual major event in horse-racing. On 24 July 2011, the Duhnen mud-flats race will once again attract around 30,000 spectators with its diverse programme of events. www.duhnen.de/duhner-wattrennen.html

Sludge sled race near GreetsielWhile sludge sledge were originally used by fishermen to get to their gillnets out in the mud-flats in order to empty their bow nets, they are today a key element in the sludge sled champi-onships – a combination of a dress-up competi-tion and team competition held every year dur-ing the summer months.www.greetsiel.de

Spiekeroog

6. International Jazz FestivalYou can watch well-known international musi-cians perform at the 6th International Jazz Festi-val (8/4 – 10/4/2011) on Spiekeroog. The pro-gramme ranges from classic piano blues to the deep big-band sound.www.spiekeroog.de

Paper boat regattaThe paper boat regatta on Spiekeroog on 23/8/2001 will see young and old captains face off against one another in their boats made of paper, cardboard & glue.www.spiekeroog.de

Ostfriesland

“Weekend at the Jade”On the first weekend in July, Wilhelmshaven will celebrate its big city and harbour festival with the “Weekend at the Jade”. A colourful musical programme on numerous stages will ensure eve-ryone’s spirits are high.www.ostfriesland.de

Emden Delft and Harbour FestivalIn mid-July, the Emden Delft and Harbour Festi-val held around the Delft will attract many visi-tors with numerous showmen, a children’s pro-gramme, lots of delicious treats and a diverse programme of stage performances.www.ostfriesland.de

Altes Land

Flower Festival in the Altes Land orchardThe flower festival, dedicated entirely to tradi-tional customs, the “Flower Queen” and culture, will be held in Jork on the first weekend in May, when the cherry and apple trees are in bloom.www.altlaender-bluetenfest.de

Cyclists’ and skaters’ day by the ElbeCyclist and skaters always have the right of way on the 1st Sunday in June. On this day, the Al-tes Land am Elbstrom holiday region has car-free streets and a host of different events.www.radlertag.de

Teufelsmoor

HammeNacht The peat barge night in the moonlight. Every Au-gust, the peat barges sail between the waterside restaurants at the Teufelsmoor well into the night. A unique experience!www.kulturland-teufelsmoor.de/hammenacht

creARTourArtists in the collective municipality of Hamber-gen open up their studios and workshops dur-ing the ‘creARTour’ in May. A particular high-light: the creARTour adventure bike tours with a guided tour through the ADFC (German Cyclists’ Federation).www.creartour-hambergen.de

Open workshops‘Open workshops’ in Worpswede (July): Com-bine cycling with an artistic experience on one of the guided cycling tours to the open work-shops of Worpswede artists.www.worpswede.de/veranstaltungen

Schloss Lütetsburg

“Lütetsburg autumn”Stalls and interactive events related to hunting and fishing, horses and dogs, sport and leisure, garden and living, lifestyle and fashion, with the beautiful backdrop of the Schlosspark Lütets-burg, attract visitors every autumn.www.luetetsburger-herbst.de

Emsland

Anradeln 2011On Sunday 17 April, over 1,000 Emslanders and visitors will open the cycling season with ral-lies from all towns in the region. This year’s meet-ing point: Lingen! Anradeln 2012 on 22 April.www.emsland.com

Lingen dressage festivalThis is the premium equestrian sport, because every year in spring or summer (20 – 22 May 2011), the dressage elite show off their skills in Lingen. With an events programme!www.emsland.com

The eastElbtalaue-Wendland

Biosphaerium Elbtalaue - Bleckede CastleExperience beavers, fish and storks live – at the information centre of the biosphere reserve, you’ll encounter the native animals of the Elbta-laue all year round.www.biosphaerium.de

Elbgenuss – Cross-stream“GenussPunkte” on both sides of the Elbe in-vite you to make lasting discoveries this autumn around 3 October. Over 10 days, you can en-joy nature tours, poetry and all things organic.www.elbgenuss.de

Südheide-Gifhorn

Allersehl equestrian sport festivalFrom 10 to 14 August 2011, the world’s eques-trian elite will converge on the Südheide Gif-horn region. Dressage and show jumping elite will come to the small heath town of Allerse-hl near Hankensbüttel for the Niedersachsen Grand Prix. A diverse range of dining options, a colourful marketplace and a children’s fun park guarantee a varied, family-friendly pro-gramme of events.www.pferdesportfestival-niedersachsen.de

Lüneburger Heide

European eventing championshipsEuropean championships with pure thrill: The 5th European eventing championships will be held in Luhmühlen from 25 to 28 August 2011.www.lueneburger-heide.de

The southHarz

Oxfam TrailwalkerOxfam Trailwalker: 4 people – 1 team – 100 kil-ometres – 30 hours! Anyone who feels fit enough can participate in this top-class hiking event. Al-ways held on the first weekend of September.www.oxfam.de/trailwalker

Hahnenklee

Liebesbankweg season openingCelebrate the season opening of our Liebes-bankweg every year on the first Saturday af-ter Ascension. Experience an attractive pro-gramme of events relating to hiking and love.www.liebesbankweg.de

39

Niedersachsen’s natural landscapes:National parks, biosphere reserves and nature parks National parks:National parks are natural landscapes in which the aim is to preserve natural habitats with their characteristic biocoenoses and vari-ety of flora and fauna. Here, the motto is “Let nature be nature”, i.e. there should be as lit-tle intervention as possible in national parks. This means preserving and protecting natu-ral structures, and creating shelters for wild plants and animals. At the same time, howev-er, national parks are also places of adven-ture and diverse experiences for humans.

Biosphere reserves:Biosphere reserves are model regions in which an environmentally-friendly and sustain-able form of land usage is developed and im-plemented in co-operation with the people liv-ing and working there. Apart from protecting the variety of species, they should also pro-mote education on sustainable development, research and long-term observation.

Nature parks:In nature parks, the main focus is on recov-ery and experiencing nature. They are vast cultural landscapes which largely comprise nature and landscape reserves. The prima-ry aims are that of environmentally-friendly tourism, sustainable regional development and environmental education. By developing a balance between intact nature, economic wellbeing and a good quality of life, nature parks act as exemplary landscapes for the development of rural regions.

Goslar

Walpurgis Night at the marketplaceThe typically Harz Walpurgis Night is an attrac-tion for the whole family, inviting you to join in the party with eerily beautiful decorations and live music at Goslar’s historic marketplace on the night of 30/4-1/5/2011.www.goslar.de/veranstaltungen/highlights-des-jahres.html

Goslar Old Town marathonThe major sporting event that is the 22nd Goslar Old Town marathon will be held on 17/4/2011. It is a traditional marathon for young and old, covering various distances through the historic Old Town.www.mtv-goslar.de/altstadtlauf

Weserbergland

Felgenfest in the Wesertal ValleyThis car-free recreational day on 29/5/2011 will once again attract numerous cyclists and inline skaters to the 55-km-long stretch between Boden-werder and Rinteln. Bon voyage!www.muenchhausenland.de

Allersheim Mountain-bike Cup in the Hochsolling regionRapid descents and altitude differences of up to 2,000 metres await the participants of the Mountain-bike Cup held in the Hochsolling re-gion every July.www.mountainbike-cup.de

Hannover Region

Aller Bike DayEvery year on 1 May, the cycling season on the Allerradweg is opened with the Aller Bike Day. It is celebrated at a different town along the Aller each year.www.tourismusregion-hannover.de

The Hannover Night“The Night in Hannover”, the exciting bike race with world-renowned pros, is held every August. A great spectacle on the quick, only 740-m-long city circuit around the Opera!www.nacht-von-hannover.de

The westOsnabrücker Land

Schloss IppenburgThe home of garden festivals is and always will be Schloss Ippenburg in Bad Essen: “Narzis-senfest” (daffodil festival) in spring, “Garten-lust und Landvergnügen” in early summer and “Ländliches Herbstfest” (rural autumn festival) im September.www.ippenburg.de/veranstaltungen/2011_termine

Roman and Teuton DaysThe legendary site of the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest in the Osnabrück region, the Kalkriese museum and park, presents the annually alter-nating “Roman and Teuton Days” at Pentecost (2011) and the “Osterleuchten” (2012).www.kalkriese-varusschlacht.de

Dümmerland

“The Dümmer’s on fire”An annual traditional event in August. Right by the lake: children’s festival, arts and crafts, lots of live music on lake stages, aerial fire-works over the lake, and the Shanty Choir Fes-tival on Sundays!www.duemmerbrand.de/programm.htm

„DümmerSpaßWochen“There’s a diverse and affordable holiday events programme for young and old by the Dümmer every day during the Niedersachs-en and NRW holidays.www.duemmer.de

Mittelweser

Katharinenmarkt zu HoyaAt Hoya‘s Katharinenmarkt held in Septem-ber, you’ll witness spectacular knight com-bats, as well as a colourful marketplace with jugglers, musicians and numerous medieval market suppliers.www.katharinenmarkt-hoya.de

Brokser HeiratsmarktThe Brokser Heiratsmarkt held in Bruchhaus-en-Vilsen in August is considered one of northern Germany’s largest folk festivals. It includes pretend marriage ceremonies, fun rides and the horse market.www.brokser-heiratsmarkt.de/start.php

Wildeshauser Geest

Dötlinger GartenkultourThe Dötlinger Gartenkultour is a cultural mix of artists, gallery owners, gardeners and restau-rateurs. They open their doors every year on 1 May, the last weekend of June and 3 October.www.doetlinger-gartenkultour.de

Jazz, Folk & Bike FestivalThe Jazz, Folk & Bike Festival is held in Syke on the 1st weekend in September. Unusual and traditional venues within cycling distance of each other combine nature with culture.www.jazzfolkbike.de

Grafschaft Bentheim

Discover the water city by boatDiscover Nordhorn as a pirate, enjoy the city by moonlight, or head to the zoo via Lake Vechtesee. Unique city tours.www.nordhorn.de

40

PublisherTourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbHEssener Straße 130173 Hannover

DesignB:SiGN Werbeagentur GmbHEllernstraße 3630175 Hannover

PrintingBWH GmbHBeckstraße 1030457 Hannover

The copyrights and/or usage rights to the images are held by the following people/establishments:

Eike Hahn / Fotolia; Marco Antonio Fdez. / Fotolia; Dirk Topel; Nordseebad Spiekeroog GmbH; TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH; TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH – Peter Hamel; Ostfriesland Tourismus GmbH; Tourismusverband Landkreis Stade/Elbe e. V.; Touristikagentur Teufelsmoor-Worpswede-Unterweser e. V.; Rüdiger Lubricht; Emsland Touristik GmbH; Kanustation Gartow; Biosphärenreservatsverwaltung Nds. Elbtalaue; Elbtalaue Wendland Touristik GmbH; Biosphärenreservatsverwaltung Nds. Elbtalaue; Bauernhofferien Arbeitsgemeinschaft Urlaub und Freizeit auf dem Lande e. V. Niedersachs-en; Bett & Box – Arbeitsgemeinschaft Urlaub und Freizeit auf dem Lande e. V. – Hof Schmit Ankum; Harzer Tourismusverband e. V.; Stefan Schiefer, GOSLAR marketing gmbh; Weserbergland Tourismus e. V.; Pit Becker; Hameln Marketing und Tourismus GmbH; Ferienregion Uslarer Land; Andrea Wüstenhagen; Stadt Salzgitter; Tourismusgemeinschaft Elm-Lappwald e. V. Foto: O. Bauer; Helmstedt, Wirtschafts- und Tourismusfördergesellschaft Landkreis Peine mbH (wito GmbH); Tourismus Region Hannover e. V.; bilderfilm.de; Lüneburger Heide GmbH; HVE-Eichsfeld-Touristik GmbH; Zweckverband Aller-Leine-Tal; Tourismusverband Osnabrücker Land e. V.; Gemeinde Hagen a.T.W.; Alfsee GmbH; Mit-telweser-Touristik GmbH; Manfred Below; Zweckverband Naturpark Wildeshauser Geest; Willi Rolfes; Tourist Information Dümmerland; DümmerWeserLand Touristik/W. Rolfes.

If not listed here, the copyrights and/or usage rights are held by the respective originators of the editorial articles.

ImprintImage credits


golf guide 2011golf courses and hotel in the “golfl and niedersachsen”


golf guide 2011golf courses and hotel in the “golfl and niedersachsen”


Lust auf Komfort- und Vitalurlaub?

Entdecken Sie exklusive Wohlfühl-Angebote, bestellen Sie Ihr kostenloses Reisemagazin und gewinnen Sie einen Genießer-Aufenthalt in Niedersachsen: www.geniessen-sie-sich.de

Jetzt Niedersachsen entdecken!



Lust auf Komfort- und Vitalurlaub?

Entdecken Sie exklusive Wohlfühl-Angebote, bestellen Sie Ihr kostenloses Reisemagazin und gewinnen Sie einen Genießer-Aufenthalt in Niedersachsen: www.geniessen-sie-sich.de

Jetzt Niedersachsen entdecken!


You can order the latest brochures and leaflets from Reiseland Niedersachsen free of charge online at www.niedersachsen-tourism.com or by telephone:+49 (0) 511/270 488-50.

Daytrip tips, event highlights and suggested routes for your holiday in Niedersachsen can be found at www.niedersachsen- tourism.com. By subscribing to our news letter, you’ll regularly receive even more inspiration for your holiday in the tourist region that is Nied-ersachsen!

www.facebook.com/LowerSaxony

41

The Niedersächsisches Wattenmeer National Park is al-ways a special experience. In spring, when the seals lie on the sand banks, in summer, when the salt marshes are in bloom, in autumn, when millions of migratory birds stop to take a rest and stock up their fat reserves before fl ying to their winter lodgings, or in winter, with geese to watch. The migratory bird days offer insights into this unique spectacle every October. Numerous events and tours relating to bird migration are held over nine days. 16 national park information facilities along the coast and on the islands always look forward to welcoming you.

To ensure the Wadden Sea and its vital importance as a “refuelling stop” for migratory birds is preserved, the co-operation promotes environmentally-friendly transporta-tion to the Sea by rail. Since 2010, transport to and from the Wadden Sea has been completely carbon-free

thanks to Ameropa’s trips purchased through Fahrtziel Natur. The “Urlauberbus” ensures fl exible mobility with-in the site: Guests holding a spa or visitor’s card can use the local public transport throughout the East Fri-sian Peninsula and the neighbouring district of Ammer-land for just 1 Euro per person per ride.This offer is val-id every day from 9am between mid-March and the end of October, but not on the day of arrival or depar-ture. Treat both yourself and your car to some time-out!For more information on the Niedersächsisches Watten-meer National Park, nature trips, hikes from the station, tips and much more: please visitwww.fahrtziel-natur.de.

– just a train ride away(Weltnaturerbe Wattenmeer)

UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site,

the Wadden SeaIn co-operation with Fahrtziel Natur Deutsche Bahn and the environmental associations BUND, NABU and VCD invite avid travellers to explore selected nature reserves. The Niedersächsisches Wattenmeer National Park has been a popular “Fahrtziel Natur” (nature destination) since 2001.

Foto: Ralf Sinning

Documents

active & outdoors - Hiking, cycling and more in Niedersachsen