Rastdorf is an idyllic linear village in the Hümmling region, founded as a colony in 1833. Its long, straight streets are a regional peculiarity, and the landscape around the village is ideal for hiking. This gives you two highlights to include in your travel plans: the history of the colony in the village and outdoor activities in the surrounding area.
Colonial History in Rastdorf
The history of Rastdorf from 1833 to 1943 is presented at the Koloniestein memorial. The memorial was renovated and enhanced in 2024; the work included path construction, planting and a shelter. The dates provide a clear timeframe for the village’s history, while the 2024 improvements mark a later stage in the development of the memorial site.
Historically, three sites in the colony at Quäkenberg were intended as places for hikers and churchgoers to rest and recuperate. Similar places were also planned along Kirchenweg: severe winters repeatedly led to fatalities there. The story of these resting places therefore tells not only of their original purpose, but also of the difficult conditions in which people travelled these routes.
The Wahner Zimmer is housed in a half-timbered building and documents the former village of Wahn and its residents. Maps and models show where the village’s buildings once stood. Wahn was completely demolished during the Second World War to make way for an expansion of a shooting range. The exhibition thus focuses both on life in the former village and on its loss.
Visits to the Wahner Zimmer can be arranged through the municipality of Rastdorf or the local heritage association. The Koloniestein and Wahner Zimmer can be visited through the local heritage association; prior arrangements may be required. Check the booking details and arrange your visit in advance. The Alte Schmiede Rastdorf displays historical craft items and adds insights into traditional craftsmanship to the village’s history.
Hiking and the Emsland region
Those looking beyond Rastdorf to the wider Emsland destination will find further opportunities to explore nature and culture. Hümmling Nature Park covers around 580 square kilometres in the northeastern part of the Emsland district. Cycling and hiking trails with information points run through the park, passing historical sites, megalithic tombs and Clemenswerth Castle.
One specific hiking option in the nature park is the Kranichpfad (Crane Trail), which leads about 2.5 kilometres into the Theikenmeer nature reserve. The return route follows the same path, making the total walking distance around five kilometres. An observation platform offers panoramic views of Lake Theikenmeer and the moorland of Wehmer Dose; there is also an observation hut on the lakeshore. The stated distance and return route make it easier to gauge the scope of this hike.
For a longer cycling tour, the Emsland Route is a 395-kilometre circular route through five landscapes: the Northern Ems Valley, Hümmling, Bourtanger Moor, Hasetal and Southern Emsland. The route connects 19 towns; the towns in Emsland along the route can serve as starting and finishing points. It is very well signposted, mostly flat, paved and traffic-free, and is particularly suitable for beginners and families with children.
Distinct from this is the Emsland junction network, which covers 2,660 kilometres and offers more than 50 themed day tours. The wider region also has additional destinations for culture enthusiasts: the park at Clemenswerth Castle covers 42 hectares and includes the Gloriette, the garden pavilion of Elector Clemens August.
Discover more destinations: Lingen (Ems), Spelle, Esterwegen, Dersum, Stavern, Holte, Werpeloh, Rhede
Go to the main travel overview: Emsland.
