Best lakes around Ringe are centered around Ringe Lake (Ringe Sø), a 14-hectare body of water in the town center. This lake is a result of a nature restoration project completed in 2005, re-establishing a natural space. The area offers walking routes around Ringe lakes, including a 2.5-kilometer path encircling Ringe Lake, and provides opportunities for birdwatching. Visitors can find picnic and relaxation areas along the lake's perimeter.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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After the peat bog was extracted in the 1960s, the Dutch Forestry Commission began the renaturation of what is now the Bargerveen nature reserve. Today, due to its exceptional diversity of flora and fauna, it enjoys special protection as a European bird sanctuary and an important wetland. You can explore the area on approximately 30 kilometers of hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views of the bog from the observation hill and tower, or experience the unique landscape on guided tours and accessible rides on the Veenland Express train.
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Beautiful nature all around and an exceptional shelter directly on the lake
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Information, opening times: http://xn--cafe-am-mhlenteich-u6b.de/
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This water mill, which belongs to the Schoneveld farm and is powered by the dammed Fertenbach, was probably built in the 13th century, when the Schoneveld family's ancestral seat was established. However, there are no documented references from the first centuries. It is only from a report by the rent collector Dröghorn from 1748 that it is clear that there was a grain mill on the farm. It is also listed in the list of private mills from 1771 as a water mill belonging to the Prince of Orange's serf Schonevelding in Wilsum.
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The local history society has extensively restored the Wilsum watermill. For centuries, a watermill has been turning in Wilsum in the county of Bentheim. It gets its energy from an idyllic mill pond fed by a stream. After the 600-year-old mill on the site of a former farm threatened to fall into disrepair, the local history society got involved and renovated the historic facility. Schoenefeld's watermill has been turning again since the mid-1990s, driving not only a millstone, but also a lathe and a washing machine.
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A converted farmhouse as a café. Very cozy and great atmosphere.
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The lakes around Ringe offer a variety of natural landscapes. Ringe Lake itself is a restored 14-hectare body of water, originally a 'dead-ice hole' from the Ice Age. You can also find raised bog areas, such as near the Thatched Shelter by the Lake, and wetland areas like the Bargerveen nature reserve, visible from the View of Bargerveen Through the Observation Window. These areas are part of a larger effort to preserve and restore natural spaces.
Yes, Ringe Lake is known as an excellent location for birdwatching, with geese, ducks, and various other water birds visible throughout much of the year. The nearby Bargerveen nature reserve, accessible from viewpoints like the View of Bargerveen Through the Observation Window, also offers opportunities to observe many different species of birds.
Near the lakes, you can explore historical sites such as the Schoneveld Watermill. This mill, likely built in the 13th century and powered by the Fertenbach, is located on a mill pond in Wilsum. Another notable spot is the Wilsum Watermill and Mill Pond, which also features a cozy café in a converted farmhouse.
Yes, several areas around Ringe's lakes are suitable for families. The 2.5-kilometer path around Ringe Lake is pleasant for walks and passes near an Iron Age playground. The Schoneveld Watermill and Wilsum Watermill and Mill Pond are also considered family-friendly highlights. Additionally, the Buffer Zone North is a natural area designed to protect the raised moor, offering a unique environment for families to explore.
You'll find various walking and hiking routes. A popular choice is the 2.5-kilometer path encircling Ringe Lake, which is ideal for scenic strolls. For more extensive options, you can explore easy hikes in the region, such as the 'Hochmoor Ringe Nature Reserve loop' or the 'Blue Vechte Bridge Ringe – Vechte River Near Ringe loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Easy hikes around Ringe guide.
Yes, the area around Ringe offers good cycling opportunities. You can enjoy road cycling routes like the 'Vechte River Near Emlichheim – Schoonebeek Oil Pumps loop' or explore gravel biking trails such as 'Canals & Vechte river trails: Hoogstede, Georgsdorf & Esche'. The Thatched Shelter by the Lake is also in a nice area for cycling. For more routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Ringe and Gravel biking around Ringe guides.
The lakes around Ringe are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and picnics, with lush greenery and active birdlife. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer serene, quiet landscapes, though some paths might be less accessible depending on conditions. Birdwatching is good for much of the year.
Yes, along the perimeter of Ringe Lake, you'll find tables and benches, providing ideal spots for picnics and relaxation amidst nature. The Thatched Shelter by the Lake also serves as a refuge and vantage point in a raised bog area, though it's noted to lack proper seating.
Ringe Lake is very accessible from the town center. A path known as 'Kærlighedsstien' (The Love Path) offers a direct connection from the lake to Ringe Center, making it easy to reach on foot.
Visitors appreciate the peaceful natural settings and the opportunities for outdoor activities. The scenic walking and cycling paths, especially around Ringe Lake, are highly valued. The historical significance of sites like the Schoneveld Watermill and the unique natural features like the raised bog near the Thatched Shelter by the Lake also contribute to a memorable experience.
Yes, you can find observation points, particularly within the Bargerveen nature reserve. The View of Bargerveen Through the Observation Window is one of several such posts, offering views of the moor and providing information about the recovering nature and wildlife in the area.


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