Top 3 Natural Monuments around Hariksee

The waterfowl meadows in Schwalm-Nette Nature Park are a unique feature of the water-rich landscape along the German-Dutch border. This nature park, which covers approximately 435 square kilometers in North Rhine-Westphalia, lies between Mönchengladbach, Viersen, and the Dutch province of Limburg. Established as a nature park in 1965, the area has been part of the cross-border Maas-Schwalm-Nette Nature Park since 1976. Characteristic of this region are the numerous rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands that together form a diverse landscape of water, wet meadows, forests, and heathlands. Within this landscape, the waterfowl meadows play an important role. These moist grasslands, often located along streams, lakes, or wetlands, are prone to frequent flooding. These wet conditions foster the growth of specific plants, creating an ideal habitat for many bird species. The combination of open grassland, shallow water, and tranquil nature makes these areas particularly attractive to waterfowl, which rest, forage, and sometimes breed there. The meadows thus serve as a natural feeding and resting place for birds dependent on wetlands. The entire nature park is strongly influenced by water. Rivers such as the Schwalm Nette, Niers, and Rur flow through the area and, together with numerous small lakes, fens, and marshlands, form a network of wetland habitats. These wetlands are among the most valuable natural habitats in the park and are of great importance for biodiversity. They provide habitat not only for waterfowl but also for many other animals, such as dragonflies, amphibians, and mammals that depend on marshes and waterscapes. The waterfowl meadows are part of this larger ecological structure. Large numbers of birds can be seen here, especially in spring and autumn when migratory birds pass through Europe. Ducks, geese, herons, and other water-bound species use the meadows as a stopover to gain energy before continuing their journey. Because the areas are relatively open and experience little disturbance, birds can rest safely here. At the same time, the wet grasslands provide a rich food source with insects, aquatic plants, and small animals that are easily accessible to birds. For visitors to the nature park, these areas also offer a unique natural experience. Water viewpoints have been constructed at various locations throughout the park, offering excellent views of the wetlands and the birds that live there without trespassing on the fragile terrain. These viewpoints allow for close-up observations of waterfowl without disturbing them. Information panels or QR codes are often present that explain the flora, fauna, and landscape of the area. Besides their importance for birds, the waterfowl meadows also play a role in preserving the Lower Rhine landscape. They recall the traditional use of wet grasslands where cattle once grazed on damp meadows along the streams. Today, many of these areas are consciously managed to preserve their natural character. By regulating the water level and implementing extensive grazing, the landscape remains open and suitable for birds and other animals. The waterfowl meadows are a key element of the Schwalm-Nette Nature Park's character. They demonstrate how water and landscape have been interconnected here for centuries and how these wetlands play a crucial role in protecting birds and biodiversity today.

The Wortelpassage, often referred to in German as Wurzelpassage, is a unique landscape feature in the wooded area around Born and Brüggen in North Rhine-Westphalia. The name refers to a narrow forest path where tree roots grow visibly above the ground, forming a natural passageway. This passage is located in the area around the Schwalm and is part of the vast Maas-Schwalm-Nette nature reserve, where forest, marshland, and stream valleys alternate. The formation of the Wortelpassage is related to the soil conditions in the Schwalm region. The subsoil here consists of sandy and peaty layers with a high water table. Trees such as oaks, beeches, and alders are therefore unable to anchor their roots deeply in the ground. Instead, the roots grow more horizontally and become visible at the surface. Due to erosion, rainwater, and intensive use of the path, these root structures have become increasingly visible. This created a natural passage that owes its name to the network of roots that lines it. The Wortelpassage is not a man-made work of art, but a spontaneously formed natural phenomenon. Yet it has an almost fairytale-like quality. Overhanging branches, winding roots, and the filtered light between the trees create a special atmosphere. Especially after rainfall, when the soil is dark and moist and moss clings to the roots, the path takes on an almost mystical appearance. This makes the spot popular with hikers and photographers seeking natural details. Ecologically, the exposed roots serve an important function. They stabilize the soil and prevent rainwater from washing away the sand. In addition, the cavities between the roots provide shelter for insects, small mammals, and amphibians. Combined with the surrounding forest and nearby stream valleys, the Wortelpassage forms a small but valuable part of the larger ecosystem around the Schwalm. The passage is usually part of hiking trails that run along the Schwalm, the Borner See, and other nature reserves. Because the path is narrow and uneven, it emphasizes the natural experience of the landscape. Visitors directly experience the connection between soil, tree, and water. It is a place where the influence of time and nature becomes visible in roots that have slowly formed their own path.

You can also take a break here

beautiful for sure

There are nice wide and narrow hiking trails along Hariksee and Borner See

The place has a great atmosphere

Even if not all paths are always accessible, the area is definitely worth a visit. Lots of birds, lots of water and even an excellent water view

Beautiful ponds with many birds