A linear village, imposing farmhouses and a church with medieval features define Bülkau. In addition, cycling routes, waterways and views across moorland and heathland offer different ways to get to know the village and its surroundings. A stay here can combine local history with activities in the landscape.
Village Layout and History
Bülkau is a linear village on the L 144. Its imposing farmhouses reflect the agricultural character of the area. Around 1200, Dutch colonists founded a linear settlement here; Bülkau was first documented in 1352. The two dates refer to different historical milestones: around 1200 marks the founding, while 1352 is the first written record.
St. John’s Church and Its Layers of History
St. John’s Church is a central landmark of Bülkau. It stands on a dwelling mound and was probably built as a Gothic fieldstone church during the Frisian colonization. In 1701, the nave was rebuilt on the old foundations as a simple brick hall. The medieval polygonal choir has been preserved. A detached square wooden tower stands to the west of the nave.
The choir houses a triumphal cross group dated to around 1515. The church also preserves a bronze baptismal font from around 1250. Parts of the organ case by Arp Schnitger are still present as well. These architectural features and furnishings point to different periods in the church’s history and can be viewed individually, rather than assigning the building to a single construction phase.
Music is also part of community life: a brass choir, a singing group, a recorder group and a guitar group regularly perform with the organ at services and events. The congregation also hosts evening concerts. In this way, the church’s historic features are complemented by the community’s musical life.
Moorland, Cycling and Walking Routes
Bülkau borders the Balksee and Border Moors protected area and offers views across moorland and heathland. Bovenmoor also borders the protected area directly. There is a freely accessible observation tower in the protected area, offering panoramic views over Balksee; white-tailed eagles can sometimes be spotted from there. The landscape view and the possibility of spotting wildlife are separate aspects: the view over Balksee is available from the observation tower, while white-tailed eagles are only seen occasionally.
Cycling routes along the L 144 and K 21 are suitable for exploring Bülkau by bike. The district of Aue is well suited to both walking and cycling. The route between Bovenmoor and Stinstedt is also suitable for cycling. This gives you a choice of walking or cycling for your plans, without combining the different details into a single route.
Out on the Water
Canoe trips are possible on the Aue and the Hadelner Canal. Public moorings along the canal are available to canoeists and recreational boaters. The Hadelner Canal connects Bülkau with Odisheim, Osterbruch and Steinau. Fishing is possible at Balksee and along the Hadelner Canal; a fishing licence is required. If you prefer to stay on land, the district of Aue offers suitable opportunities for walking and cycling. Water activities and land routes thus offer different ways to explore the area.
Discover more destinations: Belum, Cadenberge, Geversdorf
Return to the main travel overview: Am Dobrock.
