Historic loop from Velen via Heiden and Borken – day Tours on the Hohe Mark cycle route

This 68-kilometer cycling route offers plenty to see, and right at the start, you'll discover a beautiful spot: the Kuhlenvenn, a fascinating 67-hectare nature reserve near Gescher-Hochmoor. There, you can observe rare bird species without disturbing them, thanks to the observation stations. (For those who want to explore further, a little further on is the Fürstenkuhle.) On the way to Heiden and the Düwelsteenen, you'll cycle through stunning scenery in the Heubachwiesen/Lavesumer Bruch.

The next stop is the Düwelsteene in Heiden, a well-preserved stone tomb approximately 4,000 years old. The area around the tomb offers a pleasant place to rest, and information panels explain everything you need to know. From Heiden, your route takes you to Borken. There, in the former marshlands of the Bocholter Aa, stands the imposing Gemen moated castle. With its numerous moats, upper and lower moats, it lies picturesquely and beautifully nestled within an extensive parkland. The castle was built and expanded over almost 900 years, resulting in a remarkable architectural masterpiece. It remains privately owned to this day. Since 1946, it has been used as a youth education center and has been known as Gemen Youth Castle ever since.

Following the beautiful Sternbusch Avenue from the north of the castle to the Sternbusch Forest, your next destination is the Apothecary Garden with its sensory garden, information panels, and the Geological Garden in Borken-Weseke. A small oasis and a place to linger.

The route continues through the beautiful countryside towards Ramsdorf, then on for quite some time through nature to Velen. Here, another very special attraction awaits: the historic Velen Zoo. Here, too, you can admire the wonderfully landscaped park and learn about its history. A perfect end to your tour.