Natural monuments around Uplengen showcase a diverse landscape of moors, forests, and waterways in East Frisia, Germany. This region is characterized by its geological past, featuring glacial erratics and ancient trees. Uplengen offers various natural areas, including significant nature reserves, providing habitats for diverse flora and fauna. The area is suitable for those interested in geology, ecology, and tranquil outdoor exploration.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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The approximately 75-hectare nature reserve „Aper Tief“ is located south of the river of the same name between Apen and Augustfehn in the Ammerland district. Through a spectacular dike relocation in 2005, a unique, tide-dependent floodplain landscape with the only freshwater mudflat in the northwest was created here.
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Aper Tief The Aper Tief is a natural river in the municipality of Apen. Coming from the east, it flows through the farming communities of Hengstforde, Vreschen Bokel and Holtgast, from where it merges into the Jümme. Two retention areas were created along the river, which have become a fantastic nature reserve. The connection of the Aper Tief with the Jümme, Leda and Ems as far as the North Sea means that the tides are noticeable in this area with a tidal range of 60 to 120 cm. While hiking or cycling, discover the freshwater mudflats in Hengstforde and the floodplain landscape in Holtgast with its diverse birdlife. Anglers will also find excellent conditions here.
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Due to the topographical conditions, most of the pumping stations are located in the northwestern part of the Ammerländer Wasseracht association area.
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The Aper Tief is a small river in the Lower Saxony municipalities of Apen in the district of Ammerland and Detern in the joint municipality of Jümme in the district of Leer.
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The Aper Tief is a small river in the Lower Saxony municipalities of Apen in the district of Ammerland and Detern in the joint municipality of Jümme in the district of Leer.
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You can rest well at the tower and have a beautiful view of the Aper-Tief.
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Property located in the rustic Bockhorn primeval forest, directly on the cycle path…
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The nature reserve with the designation NSG WE 221 is 75 hectares in size. It has been under nature protection since December 17, 1994. The responsible lower nature conservation authority is the Ammerland district. The nature reserve is located south of the Aper Tief between the towns of Apen and Augustfehn in the municipality of Apen in the Ammerland district. It is bordered to the east by the district road 120 and to the west by the Norderloher Canal. In the south of the nature reserve is the dike of the Aper Tief, which was moved from the bank of the Tief to a road running south of it in 2005. Before the dike line was moved back, there were grassland and wet meadows here, which were crossed by oxbows of the Aper Tief. The grassland was mainly used for mowing. After the dike line was moved back, the areas between the Aper Tief and the dike are subject to the natural river dynamics and are partially flooded at high tide. This creates a river floodplain landscape with river mudflats, floodplain forests and wet biotopes. The areas also serve as flood protection. Reed beds, including cattails, water swaths, reed canary grass and sedge marshes, are spreading on the waterlogged areas. The nature reserve is home to laurel willow, prostrate St. John's wort, marsh marigold, greater burnet, water ragwort, water sedge, needle marsh rush, bristly marsh rush and thread rush, among others. The nature reserve is home to numerous bird species, including black-tailed godwit, common snipe and redshank. The nature reserve is also an important habitat for various insects, including ground beetles and dragonflies. In the south of the nature reserve there are two viewing platforms accessible from the road along the dyke, which can be used for nature observation. Another viewing point is located on a pumping station on the north bank of the Aper Tief near Augustfehn.
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Uplengen offers a diverse landscape, including significant geological formations like the Aper Tief nature reserve, which features a rare freshwater mudflat and rich birdlife. You can also find ancient trees, such as Red Beeches, Chestnuts, Lindens, and Oaks, designated as natural monuments due to their age and historical significance. The region's moors and forests, like the Hollesand Nature Reserve, provide unique ecosystems to discover.
Yes, several natural monuments in Uplengen are family-friendly. The Aper Tief nature reserve has a well-maintained hiking trail. The Neudorfer Moor Observation Tower offers a great spot for birdwatching, and the Hunting lodge in the Neuenburg Primeval Forest serves as a resting place amidst numerous hiking trails, all suitable for family outings.
For birdwatching, the Aper Tief nature reserve is excellent, known for its rich birdlife. The Neudorfer Moor Observation Tower provides views over a rewetting area where many different bird species can be observed. Additionally, the Bird Sanctuary (Polder Holter Hammrich) is a 240-hectare rewetting area, home to over 60 bird species, with a 7-kilometer circular route and a lookout tower.
Uplengen offers a variety of hiking trails. For example, the Hollesand Nature Reserve features well-marked trails using a junction point system. You can find easy routes like the 'Hollensand Nature Reserve – Witch’s Cottage in Holle Sand loop' or the 'Fairy Houses in Holle Sand – Hollensand Nature Reserve loop'. For more options, explore the Hiking around Uplengen guide.
While Uplengen's natural monuments primarily focus on geological and ecological features, the Hunting lodge in the Neuenburg Primeval Forest has historical significance. Built in 1950, it stands near the site of an imposing 850-year-old oak, once considered the oldest tree in the forest, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
The Hollesand Nature Reserve is particularly stunning in the summer when the heathland blooms, creating a vibrant and colorful spectacle. Generally, spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the trails and observing wildlife. However, the region's natural beauty can be appreciated year-round, with each season offering a different experience.
Yes, Uplengen has several viewpoints. The Neudorfer Moor Observation Tower offers panoramic views over the rewetting area. Another excellent spot is the Augustfehner Graben Observation Tower, which provides a nice view of the surrounding landscape and the nature reserve. The Bird Sanctuary also features a lookout tower as part of its circular route.
Uplengen offers various cycling routes. The main Fehn Canal, near the Bird Sanctuary, provides well-developed paths suitable for bikes. You can find routes like 'Ihausener Wald – Quiet Country Road Near Leer loop' or 'Großsander Lake – St. Petri Church Westerstede loop'. For more detailed options, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Uplengen guide or the Gravel biking around Uplengen guide.
Uplengen is known for its granite erratics, or 'Findlinge,' near Remels. These geological features were transported by glaciers during the Ice Age, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's geological past and the powerful forces that shaped its landscape. Their designation as natural monuments highlights their scientific and natural historical value.
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and diverse natural surroundings. Many enjoy the opportunities for birdwatching, the well-maintained hiking and cycling trails, and the chance to explore unique ecosystems like freshwater mudflats and rewetting areas. The peaceful spots offered by ancient trees and the historical context of sites like the hunting lodge also add to the appeal.
Yes, some natural monuments offer facilities. The Hunting lodge in the Neuenburg Primeval Forest serves as a resting place and refuge for forest visitors. At the Neudorfer Moor Observation Tower, there's a bench for resting. Additionally, the Aper Tief nature reserve has a hiking trail starting at Hengstforder Mühle, where you can find refreshments.
Many areas, such as the Aper Tief nature reserve, feature well-maintained hiking trails. The Bird Sanctuary has a circular route that is easily accessible for cyclists and hikers. While specific accessibility details for all sites vary, the region generally aims to provide enjoyable outdoor experiences for a wide range of visitors.


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