Top 20 Lakes around Straelen

The Krickenbecker Seen form an ancient nature reserve, established in 1938, making it one of the oldest and largest protected areas in North Rhine-Westphalia. This district, formed by peat cutting between the 16th and 19th centuries, is characterized by its rich biodiversity, diverse flora, and habitats for numerous waterbirds. It also holds historical significance with remnants of Napoleon's Grand Canal du Nord.

Swimming, bathing, and boating are generally prohibited in the Krickenbecker Seen due to their nature reserve status. However, the larger northern section of De Witt Lake, adjacent to the Krickenbecker Seen, permits regulated recreational activities such as swimming, sailing, and canoeing. The smaller southern part of De Wittsee remains a protected sanctuary for breeding waterbirds.

The lakes are a haven for wildlife, especially waterbirds. You can observe various duck species, grey herons, great crested grebes, and reed warblers. During winter, over 1000 geese can be seen. The area also features diverse flora, including water lilies, and is home to rare animal and plant species. The Schroliksee Viewing Platform offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

Yes, the Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center is located directly at the lakes. It provides insights into the origin and biodiversity of the nature reserve through exhibitions and interactive elements, and features an observation deck. Additionally, the Schroliksee Viewing Platform offers views over the lake with explanatory boards about resident birds.

The Krickenbecker Seen consist of four main lakes: Hinsbecker Bruch, Glabbacher Bruch, Poelvenn, and Schrolik. These lakes were formed through historical peat cutting. The Nette and Renne rivers flow through them, contributing to the rich aquatic environment. The surrounding landscape includes oak-beech forests, alder carrs, and meadows, reflecting the area's historical swampy and boggy nature.

Yes, the area around the Krickenbecker Seen is ideal for walking, cycling, and hiking. There are well-marked circular routes, including green and blue routes of 7.3 and 10.2 kilometers respectively, allowing visitors to explore the diverse landscape. The Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee highlight is particularly suitable for walking or cycling.

Beyond walking and cycling around the lakes, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including those for touring bicycles and gravel biking, as well as mountain biking trails. For example, you can explore routes like the 'Tree-Lined Avenue – Straelen loop' for cycling or the 'Hinsbecker Höhen Trail' for mountain biking. More details on these routes can be found in the Cycling around Straelen, Gravel biking around Straelen, and MTB Trails around Straelen guides.

Yes, many areas around the lakes are family-friendly. The Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center is a great starting point for families, offering interactive exhibits. The well-marked circular routes are suitable for family walks and bike rides. Events like 'Genuss am See' at De Wittsee also offer family-friendly activities.

The lakes offer unique experiences throughout the year. Winter is particularly good for observing large numbers of geese. Spring and summer are ideal for seeing breeding waterbirds and diverse flora, including water lilies. The Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center is considered worth a visit at any time of the year.

While specific cafes or restaurants directly at the Krickenbecker Seen are not highlighted, the Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center does include a cafe. The broader region around Straelen and nearby towns would offer various dining and accommodation options.

Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the rich natural beauty. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths for walking and cycling, offering charming views of the lakes and diverse landscapes. The opportunity for birdwatching and photography is also highly valued, with many finding exciting motifs in every season.

The area offers a variety of trails. While specific wheelchair-accessible paths are not extensively detailed, the Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center is noted as wheelchair accessible. Many circular routes are generally considered easy, making them suitable for a wide range of visitors.