Best attractions and places to see around Straelen, a municipality in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, offers a mix of historical sites and natural landscapes. Situated near the Dutch border, the region features tranquil rural scenery and cultural points of interest. Its landscape is characterized by vast fields, idyllic countryside, and meandering rivers, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. The area is known for its connection to horticulture, reflected in local landmarks.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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You automatically interrupt your tour to take a look over the lakes.
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From up here you can watch the hustle and bustle of the translators with the ferry.
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It's interesting to watch the hustle and bustle on and around the ferry.
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In the meantime, the ferry has also become a bit more expensive per person by bike €1.20 (as of May 2023)
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Great starting point for long hikes.
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The Krickenbecker lakes are always popular.
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At different times of the day, the lakes always offer beautiful photo opportunities.
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These information boards are set up in many places. Helps visitors with their visits.
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Straelen is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the serene Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee, perfect for walking or cycling with charming views. Another beautiful spot is Glabbacher Bruch Lake, which is particularly magnificent during the 'blue hour'. The Straelener Bruch Nature Reserve is also a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Yes, Straelen offers several historical and cultural sites. You can see the unique Green Couch at the Town Hall, symbolizing the region's connection to horticulture. The Parish Church of St. Peter and Paul is a significant religious landmark. You can also explore the historical center with its old buildings, or learn about the town's past at the Town Archive, located in one of the oldest houses in the town center.
Many attractions around Straelen are family-friendly. The Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee are great for easy walks and cycling. The Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center provides helpful insights for visitors of all ages. Additionally, the Schroliksee Viewing Platform offers explanatory boards about resident birds, which can be engaging for children.
Straelen is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various cycling tours, such as the 'GreenCity RadTour' or the 'Schmugglerpfad Straelen'. For more structured routes, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Straelen, which include options like the 'Smugglers' Trail Arcen and Velden'. The Krickenbecker Lakes area is also perfect for leisurely walks and bike rides.
Yes, some attractions offer accessibility. The Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center is noted as wheelchair accessible. The Velden–Grubbenvorst Ferry is also listed as wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to observe the ferry activity from an elevated position.
The natural attractions around Straelen, such as the Krickenbecker Lakes, are beautiful to explore throughout the year. Whether you prefer the vibrant colors of spring and summer or the tranquil atmosphere of autumn and winter, the landscape offers charming views in every season.
Straelen offers excellent opportunities for mountain biking and gravel biking. You can find various trails in the area, including moderate MTB trails like the 'Taubenberg Observation Tower – Hinsbecker Höhen Trail loop from Straelen'. For gravel biking, explore routes such as the 'Trails through Landgoed de Hamert' or the 'Great Heath – Venloer Heide Forest Trail loop from Straelen'. More details can be found in the MTB Trails around Straelen and Gravel biking around Straelen guides.
Straelen is home to the European Translators' College, the world's first international workplace for literary translators, housed in a complex of five listed buildings. The town also has a vibrant arts scene with galleries and studios showcasing local artists, and visitors can attend exhibitions or performances.
Yes, the Straelen area is excellent for wildlife spotting, especially in its nature reserves. The Straelener Bruch Nature Reserve is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The Schroliksee Viewing Platform provides information about resident swimming birds, and bat walks are occasionally offered there.
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lakes, such as the Krickenbecker Lakes, which are praised for their charming views and suitability for walking or cycling. The informative boards at places like the Schroliksee Viewing Platform are also appreciated for enhancing the experience of the natural landscape.
Beyond the main attractions, you might find interest in the Junggesellenstein Kreuzrinne, a mosaic cross with a unique tradition dating back to 1588. The foundational remnants of the former city gate 'Mühlentor' also offer a glimpse into Straelen's fortified past.
Yes, the Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center includes a cafe, making it a great starting point or resting spot for long hikes around the lakes. You'll also find various cafes and pubs within Straelen's historical center.


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