Rheinberg brings together several themes to consider when planning a trip: a nature reserve with diverse birdlife, hiking trails and historic landmarks. The TerraZoo adds another distinct focus. Think about what you want your stay to revolve around—nature, outdoor activities, city history or wildlife—and then decide which attractions you’d like to explore further.

Natural Habitat and Birdlife

The Alter Rhein, Jenneckes Gatt, Niepgraben nature reserve is located in Rheinberg. Its Alter Rhein section is a breeding, resting and wintering area for several bird species, including the kingfisher, goosander, wigeon, common pochard, reed warbler and nightingale. The area’s different functions make birdlife a defining feature of Rheinberg’s natural environment; this does not mean that individual sightings are guaranteed.

Hiking Trails and Stages

The NiederrheinWeg includes Rheinberg on its 125-kilometre circular route, which connects eight town halls. The route is walked in nine stages of approximately 14 to 16 kilometres. The total distance describes the scope of the circular tour, while the approximate stage length helps when planning individual sections. The stage start and end points are connected to public transport. Before your trip, check the current route and connections, as both may change.

In addition, clearly signposted cycling and hiking trails connect Rheinberg with the districts of Borth, Budberg and Orsoy. So, alongside the NiederrheinWeg’s stage-by-stage itinerary, you can choose trails that lead to these districts. The NiederrheinWeg provides the framework for planning stages of a longer circular tour; the signposted trails lead to Borth, Budberg and Orsoy.

Historic Landmarks in Rheinberg

Several buildings provide tangible points of reference for the city’s history. A Gothic town hall stands in the area of Rheinberg’s market square. The history of St. Peter’s Parish Church dates back to the 12th century. The Alte Kellnerei dates from 1573 and is the only surviving remnant of the former Electoral Castle. The Zoll-/Pulverturm, meanwhile, dates to 1293. Together, these different dates offer several historical points of reference without telling a single story of the city’s origins.

Another memorial can be found on Maria-Kann-Weg: a commemorative plaque there describes the life and work of the woman for whom the road is named. If you’d like to learn about Rheinberg’s history as a former customs and fortress town in a more connected way, you could consider guided tours on this subject. Availability and booking conditions may change, so check the current options in advance.

TerraZoo and Educational Activities

The TerraZoo Rheinberg exhibits around 400 reptiles, amphibians, arthropods and fish. The collection size may change over time. The zoo also offers guided tours and a wide-ranging educational programme aimed particularly at children and young people. These offers may also change, so it’s worth checking the current options before planning your visit.

The nature reserve and TerraZoo have different emphases: one focuses on a habitat that serves various functions for bird species, while the other presents a collection of several animal groups. Along with the historic buildings and hiking trails, they offer a range of themes to help you plan your stay in Rheinberg.

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