The only freshwater mudflats in the northwest are located in Apen. They were created in 2005 by relocating a dike to provide a retention area for possible flooding from the Aper Tief. Regular flooding caused by the ebb and flow of the tides affects some parts of the terrain; within the area designated as a nature reserve, it gives rise to unique flora and fauna. Water and flood protection thus shape both the landscape and its distinctive natural environment.
At the Aper Tief: Mudflats, Dike and Mill
On guided walks along the dike in the Aper Tief area, you can learn more about how these areas came about, what they were designed for, and the special features of nature and flood protection. Participants choose the length, which is approximately 3 to 6 kilometres. It is best to check dates and register in advance. Also right on the Aper Tief, in the hamlet of Hengstforde, stands the gallery Dutch windmill of Hengstforde. The site has a long history of milling: a wooden mill stood there from 1742 until it was replaced by a stone building in the late 19th century. The mill is free to visit; guided tours are available by prior arrangement.
Cycling Between the Shore and the Fen Landscape
The Zwischenahner Meer offers a different perspective on the landscape: you can sail, surf or swim there, and cycle or walk along its eleven-kilometre shore. The Ammerland Route covers a wider regional area. This 165-kilometre circular route passes through Ammerland’s parkland and unique fen landscapes. There are eleven shelters along the route where you can take a break. You can choose between a trip by the water and a circular tour through the fen and parkland landscapes, each with a clearly distinct length and setting.
Garden Art and Designed Landscapes
The 14-hectare Park of Gardens occupies the site of Lower Saxony’s first state horticultural show, held in 2002. Its more than 90 individual areas include themed gardens, plant collections and educational trails. There are also over 40 different model gardens. These figures illustrate the breadth of what is on offer: the park brings together different types of gardens and plant areas, along with paths devoted to learning and discovery.
Discover History at Farms and Churches
In Edewecht, the Tollhus up'n Wurnbarg was once a customs station between Ammerland and Oldenburg MĂĽnsterland. The open-air museum displays numerous exhibits on the history of agriculture in Ammerland. Visits and guided tours are available year-round by prior arrangement. The open-air museum in Bad Zwischenahn also offers a glimpse into an earlier way of life: historic thatched houses depict life 300 years ago. Guided tours of the Ammerland Farmhouse are available year-round on request.
In Rastede, St. Ulrich’s Church is almost 1,000 years old. Count Huno and Countess Willa founded it in 1059. In Westerstede, St. Peter’s Church is the oldest building and a landmark of the town; its tower is 48 metres high. It is free to visit. Check the opening arrangements before your visit.
A Taste of Regional Food Culture
Apen is home to the oldest ham smokehouse in Ammerland. Guided tours of the Ham Museum introduce visitors to the rooms and techniques involved in curing, the smokehouse and the tradition; tours are available on request. Smoking is not currently taking place. In Apen, the natural and flood history of the Aper Tief thus meets another, quite distinct part of regional history.
Discover more destinations: Bad Zwischenahn, Westerstede, Apen, Rastede, Edewecht, Wiefelstede, LĂĽneburg, Elbe-Weser Triangle.
Go to the main travel overview: Lower Saxony.
