Natural monuments around NSG Emsaue encompass a vital natural landscape in North Rhine-Westphalia, characterized by diverse ecosystems along the Ems River. This extensive nature reserve spans approximately 65 kilometers, featuring riparian forests, oxbow lakes, and flood channels. It provides crucial habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna, including various bird species and amphibians. The area offers opportunities to experience dynamic riverine processes and rich biodiversity.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
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🚲✨ The Ems side arms near Emsdetten are silent witnesses to the river's history and today valuable refuges for rare animal and plant species. Especially in the Hembergen district and in the Veltrup area, you can discover these picturesque waters, which act like small windows into the original river landscape.
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🚲✨ The Emsaue Nature Reserve (NSG Emsaue) is one of the most important nature reserves in Münsterland and stretches as a green belt along the Ems from Warendorf via Telgte, Münster and Greven all the way to Emsdetten and Rheine. It is a paradise for cyclists who want to experience the original river landscape up close.
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The storm and the flood already have enormous power
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Unfortunately, it did not survive the flooding of the Ems
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Long arm of the Ems between the bridge over the Ems and the Hotel Schipp Hummert
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A large, standing oak tree 🌳 has fallen over.
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Visitors frequently enjoy the Ems Oxbow, which offers a different picturesque scene with each season. Another favorite is the Sandy riverbank on the Ems (NSG Emsaue), providing scenic access points to the river. The Ems River at the Emsaue Nature Reserve is also highly rated for its excellent overview points, where you might spot storks and herons on quiet days.
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The Anima Foresta Pond in Elter Dünen Nature Reserve offers a quiet, relaxing break with a bench and plenty of birds to hear. The Sternbusch Beech Grove is also a pleasant area for walks, offering a glimpse into historical landscape design.
The NSG Emsaue is rich in diverse natural features. You can explore extensive riparian forests, willow groves, and wet grasslands. The area is also characterized by oxbow lakes and flood channels, which are crucial habitats for various species. Additionally, river-accompanying dunes like the Bockholter Berge and Elter Sand offer unique flora and fauna, including sand lizards.
The Steinhorster Becken is an exceptional bird sanctuary and a must-see for birdwatchers. This large man-made biotope serves as a crucial resting, feeding, breeding, and wintering site for numerous native and migratory wading birds and waterfowl, including kingfishers, ospreys, and herons. A 4.5-kilometer circular hiking trail and observation towers provide excellent, undisturbed viewing opportunities.
Yes, the Sternbusch Beech Grove is a notable example. Created in 1738 during the Baroque period as a 'star bush,' it was likely used as a hunting ground by Prince-Bishop Clemens August of Bavaria. The two diagonal axes of its original star-shaped hunting lanes can still be seen today.
The area around NSG Emsaue offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, running, and easy hikes. For example, you can explore routes like the 'Paved Path Through the Forest – Emsauenradweg' for gravel biking, or the 'Saltworks Canal, Rheine' for running. For easy hikes, consider trails like 'Heathland in the Elter Dünen Nature Reserve'. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around NSG Emsaue, Running Trails around NSG Emsaue, and Easy hikes around NSG Emsaue guides.
You can visit the Ems Springs, which mark the very source of the Ems River. Here, water emerges from the ground in numerous places, and a wooden walkway allows visitors to explore the spring area. The surrounding Ems-Erlebnisweg is a 4.9 km hiking trail that winds through pine forests and heathland, offering educational insights into the natural environment.
The Bockholter Berge Nature Reserve is renowned for its distinctive dunes, formed by glacial meltwater. It features enchanting heathland that is particularly beautiful during the heather bloom, alongside juniper shrubs, ancient oaks, dry grasslands, and pine forests. It's one of the oldest reserves in the Steinfurt district and home to endangered species like the woodlark and sand lizard.
While the Emssee was created during the State Horticultural Show in 1988, it is described as a beautiful and idyllic area offering a serene environment right next to the historic city center of Warendorf. It provides a picturesque scene where the Ems River flows alongside the expansive lake, making it an excellent spot for relaxation, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the waterside scenery.
Visitors appreciate the diverse and dynamic river landscape, the opportunities for birdwatching, and the tranquil spots for relaxation. Many enjoy the scenic views, such as those from the Ems River at the Emsaue Nature Reserve, and the peaceful atmosphere found at places like the Anima Foresta Pond. The blend of natural beauty and accessible paths for walking and cycling is also a highlight.
The NSG Emsaue offers beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for experiencing the lush riparian forests and observing diverse birdlife, especially at the Steinhorster Becken. The heathland in Bockholter Berge is particularly beautiful during the heather bloom in late summer. Even in quieter seasons, the changing scenery of the Ems Oxbow provides a unique experience.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around NSG Emsaue: