4.5
(2800)
11,763
hikers
6
hikes
Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Alfhausen-Rieste hiking trails offer routes through a designated nature reserve and EU bird sanctuary. The area features two main sections: the Alfsee, a large main basin with 210 hectares of open water and mostly treeless shorelines, and a reserve basin characterized by grasslands, forests, and wetlands. This landscape provides diverse habitats for numerous waterbird species. The terrain is generally flat, with gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for easy walks and nature observation.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
2
hikers
1.90km
00:29
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
2.53km
00:38
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
4
hikers
4.16km
01:04
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
2
hikers
3.01km
00:46
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Alfhausen-Rieste
A highlight in Ankum is the lake of the same name.
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Many benches invite you to linger.
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St. Nicholas Church in Ankum is also popularly known as the "Artland Cathedral." The three-aisled, neo-Romanesque basilica, the oldest part of which (the lower section of the west tower) dates back to the 16th century, was rebuilt after a fire in 1892. About 1,000 years ago, only a simple wooden baptismal chapel stood here.
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The fountain was designed and constructed by Dr. Reinhard Krüsselmann.
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There are a handful of urban hiking trails in Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Alfhausen-Rieste, with 6 routes currently available. All of these routes are rated as easy, making them accessible for most hikers.
Urban hikes here offer a blend of natural and developed areas. You'll find paths around the large, open waters of the Alfsee, with its mostly treeless shoreline and reed beds, as well as routes through diverse lowland landscapes featuring grasslands and forests within the reserve basin. The area is a designated nature reserve and EU bird sanctuary, so expect rich natural features even within urban-adjacent paths.
Yes, all the urban hiking routes in Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Alfhausen-Rieste are rated as easy. For example, the Wonderburger Osnabruck loop from Bersenbrück is a short, gentle walk, as is the Lohbecker Eck Bank loop from Bersenbrück. These trails are perfect for a relaxed outing.
Many urban trails offer views of the Alfsee and its surroundings. You might encounter the impressive Alfsee Overflow Weir, which provides excellent views and the sound of rushing water. The North shore of the Alfsee and the Alfsee South Dam are also notable points of interest. The area is rich in natural beauty, being a nature reserve.
Yes, several urban hiking routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Pastors Stiege – Heimathaus Ankum loop from Ankum and the Pastors Stiege – Arcades at Ankum's St. Nicholas Church loop from Ankum, both offering convenient circular paths.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,100 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquility, the diverse natural landscapes, and the excellent opportunities for birdwatching, especially around the Alfsee and its reserve basin.
Yes, the region is well-suited for families. The trails are generally easy and offer varied scenery, from open water views to grasslands and forests. The Alfsee Recreational Park nearby also offers additional activities like an indoor play paradise, making it a great destination for a family day out.
While the area is a nature reserve and EU bird sanctuary, many paths are generally accessible for dogs. However, it's crucial to keep dogs on a leash, especially around sensitive wildlife areas and during breeding seasons, to protect the diverse bird population. Always check local signage for specific regulations.
The Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Alfhausen-Rieste offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round. Spring and autumn are particularly good for birdwatching due to migration. Summer provides pleasant weather for walks around the lake, while winter can offer serene, quiet landscapes. The diverse habitats ensure there's always something to see.
Absolutely. Many routes offer stunning views of the Alfsee. For instance, the Lake Ankum – North Shore of Lake Ankum loop from Ankum provides direct access and views of the lake, allowing you to experience the expansive open water and its surrounding natural beauty.


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