Rieste combines pilgrimage at Lage Monastery with the natural and recreational attractions of Alfsee. The Holy Cross of Lage, dating from the 14th century, has been a destination for pilgrims for centuries; other attractions include the interactive nature conservation and education centre, cycling routes and activities at StrandArena. When planning a visit, it is worth distinguishing between these highlights: religious local history, insights into the lake landscape and active pursuits each offer a different focus.
Lage Monastery and the Rosary Garden
Lage Monastery in Rieste has been a destination for pilgrims visiting the Holy Cross of Lage for centuries; the cross dates from the 14th century. The Rosary Garden at the monastery was created in 1994 and 1995. It is divided into two areas with a cross-shaped path layout and includes 20 wayside shrines commemorating the lives of Jesus and Mary. The long pilgrimage tradition thus stands alongside a garden dating from the 1990s. The paths and shrines give concrete form to the religious theme. The pilgrimage site of Lage is entered from the west through Lager Tor.
Alfsee: Nature and activities
The Alfsee Nature Conservation and Education Centre (nbz) in Rieste is an interactive centre exploring the history, birdlife and landscape dynamics of Alfsee. It offers seminars, hikes, guided tours and courses. Its three subject areas combine nature observation with a historical perspective and the changing landscape. This means that Alfsee is not approached solely through its birdlife: its history and landscape dynamics are also part of the picture. The range of formats extends from seminars and courses to hikes and guided tours.
At Alfsee StrandArena in Rieste, there are water-ski facilities with different levels of difficulty, as well as water-skiing and wakeboarding courses. StrandArena also has an 18-hole minigolf course. The Alfsee holiday and adventure park includes the Germanenland Adventure World, with climbing logs, water play areas, an oracle and a maze. Water sports, minigolf and the various features of the themed area offer different options for planning your leisure time.
Cycling and planning your time
For cycling stages, there are two Rieste circular cycling routes to choose from, with different distances and approximate journey times. The “Ort” circular route is 15.36 kilometres long, takes about one hour and starts and finishes at Alfsee-Center. The “Land” circular route covers 26.55 kilometres, takes about two hours and has the same starting and finishing point. “Ort” is therefore the shorter option, requiring less time, while “Land” is the longer loop and takes about an additional hour. With the same start and finish point for both routes, the choice mainly comes down to distance and the time you have available.
Getting to Rieste
If you are travelling to Rieste by train, you can use Rieste station.
Discover more destinations: Hesepe, Bohmte, Bramsche, Glandorf, Belm, EggermĂĽhlen, Bad Rothenfelde, Hasbergen
Return to the main travel overview: OsnabrĂĽck.
