Siebengewald is a true border town: many German residents come here to shop for typically Dutch goods. The town’s history, local art and cycling opportunities towards De Maasduinen reveal different sides of this destination. When planning a stay, you can focus on the history of the border, on architecture and works of art, or on spending time outdoors.
Border History and Historic Place Names
The historic settlement of Siebengewald was an enclave under the rule of Weeze, between Afferden and Goch. After the exchange of enclaves in 1817, the old farming community formed the core of what is now Dutch Siebengewald. This sequence makes the town’s border history tangible through two specific milestones: its former political status and its development into today’s settlement.
Customs officers who guarded the border and had to arrest smugglers lived in the former barracks at Augustinusweg 2. A street name also points to an earlier designation: the section of Augustinusweg on the property at Boterdijk 64 was once called PLEESSEN DIECK. The Haagdoorn building at the corner of Augustinusweg and Gochsedijk later became known as Jagershof. The former Jagershof café has a history as an inn spanning more than 200 years; this does not imply that it is still operating today.
The production of heather brooms is also part of the local economic history. It was an important source of income for the residents of Siebengewald. Along with the names of former buildings and roads, this craft offers a different perspective on the town’s history than border administration: it tells of work that was once important to the residents’ livelihood.
Church, Memorial and Art in the Town
St. Jozefkerk is a pseudocross basilica built with a concrete frame and brick cladding; its tower serves as a landmark. The foundation stone was laid on 10 July 1955, and the church was consecrated on 8 September 1956. These two dates place its construction in the mid-1950s and add a clear timeline to its architectural features.
The war memorial in the cemetery, next to the chapel, was unveiled in 2025. It commemorates nine fellow townspeople who lost their lives as a result of acts of war. Its location and dedication make it a tangible point of reference for remembering those affected.
Artworks also offer a variety of perspectives. The sculpture “Playing Children” by Sef Moonen dates from 1965 and stands on Kendelweg near the ’t Kendelke primary school. Hans Mes’s artwork “Border Crossings” is located beside Gochsedijk. The titles alone distinguish their themes: playing children in one case, border crossings in the other. The artists, works and locations provide specific points of reference if you are interested in local art.
Cycling, Hiking and Seasonal Shopping
From Siebengewald, you can cycle into De Maasduinen, a large nature reserve. You can also cycle across the border into Germany. One section of the Siebengewald Loop is specifically identified: between junctions 33 and 27, the route runs partly across the Bleijenbeek golf course. When comparing cycling and hiking options, the type of trail is another difference: De Maasduinen National Park has marked hiking trails, including a route between junctions 43 and 86. Routes may change, so check the current route before setting out.
At Ingenbleek Asperges in Siebengewald, you can buy asparagus grown on the farm’s own fields. Availability may vary by season. If you are planning a shopping trip to the farm, check what is currently available beforehand.
Discover more destinations: Wellerlooi, Well, Afferden.
For the broader travel overview: Bergen.
