Best natural monuments around Handrup offer an idyllic landscape characterized by rolling hills, expansive fields, forests, and numerous rivers and lakes. The region provides a diverse natural experience, from unique dune landscapes to ancient geological formations. Visitors can explore a variety of natural features that define the Emsland district of Lower Saxony, Germany.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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The moor provides a natural habitat for moor frogs and adders and is fascinating for the vibrant green, brown, and red tones of its plants. Sphagnum mosses, sedge, rush, and mud sedge, among others, grow here. It is particularly beautiful in May/June when the cotton grass is in bloom and in August when the heather is in bloom.
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The gorge systems, called Tangen, are typical of this area, which is now a nature reserve. Tang is Low German and means "pincer" or "branch." The term describes the waterways that originated in the Maiburg and cut deep, branching valleys into the terminal moraine landscape. An information board on site provides detailed information about the formation of the Ankum Heights and the Maiburger Tangen.
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A very deep stream valley with steps on both sides. It can be muddy at the bottom even in dry weather.
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The Dalum Passage Tomb is a Neolithic passage grave from the period between 3500 and 2800 BC. BC and belongs to the Funnel Beaker culture. It is located in the joint municipality of Fürstenau in the Osnabrück district in Lower Saxony, about 5.7 kilometers south of Bippen. The megalithic complex has a northwest-southeast oriented, approximately 15 meter long chamber. Many of the complex's original supporting and capping stones are missing or have collapsed. Other prehistoric sites are known near the passage grave, including the so-called Hexentanzplatz, also known as the large stone grave "Maiburg 2".
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A wonderful playground for children in summer.
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The 27 meter long megalithic tomb near Thuine.
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Here you have to push the wheel down and up again. If you take this point with you on the tour, you should make sure that you don't load the bike too heavily. the ascent is difficult, and the stairs are built in such a way that you cannot push your bike up if you use the steps. Very challenging!
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Handrup offers a diverse landscape. You can discover the unique dune landscape of the Lohner Sand Nature Reserve, which provides a distinct ecological experience. The region also features geological formations like the Tangen Gorge, formed by the ice age, and the serene Hahnenmoor Nature Reserve, a high moor area with specific flora and fauna.
Yes, Handrup is home to impressive historical natural monuments. The Kunkenvenne megalithic tomb is one of the most remarkable megalithic tombs in northern Germany, dating back to the Neolithic period. Another significant site is the Dalum Megalithic Tomb, a long passage grave also from the Neolithic era, located in the Maiburg forest area.
The area around Handrup is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on easy routes, with options like the 'Lengerich Evangelical Church – Ramingsmühle Watermill loop'. For hikers, there are easy trails such as the 'Handrup Monastery loop'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore moderate trails, including those around the Tangen Gorge. Find more routes in the cycling guide, hiking guide, and MTB guide for Handrup.
Absolutely! Several natural monuments are great for families. The Witches' Staircase features renovated stairs in a hilly forest with a playground, making it fun for children. The Kunkenvenne megalithic tomb and Dalum Megalithic Tomb offer an educational historical experience. The Hahnenmoor Nature Reserve and Tangen Gorge also provide accessible paths suitable for family outings.
The natural monuments around Handrup can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the warmer months are particularly pleasant for outdoor activities. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and ideal conditions for hiking and cycling. The Haselünner See, for instance, is a popular bathing lake especially during warmer weather. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a tranquil, frosty landscape.
Yes, the Haselünner See (Haselünne Lake), located near Handrup, is a popular bathing lake. It features a pretty, fine sandy bathing area on its southeastern shore. While swimming is primarily permitted for guests of the adjacent camping and weekend park, the lake's serene setting makes it a pleasant spot for relaxation and enjoying nature, especially during warmer months.
Visitors frequently praise the unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The renovated Witches' Staircase is loved for its beautiful setting and playground. The Kunkenvenne megalithic tomb is highly regarded for its impressive size and excellent preservation. Many also appreciate the tranquil and distinctive landscapes found in areas like the Hahnenmoor Nature Reserve and the narrow paths of the Tangen Gorge.
Yes, many natural monuments in Handrup offer easy and accessible paths. The Hahnenmoor Nature Reserve features pleasantly soft natural paths through its moor landscape. The megalithic tombs, such as Kunkenvenne and Dalum, are generally accessible for a gentle stroll. For dedicated easy hikes, you can explore routes like the 'Handrup Monastery loop' found in the easy hikes guide for Handrup.
The Hahnenmoor Nature Reserve is particularly known for its wildlife, especially migratory birds, due to its protected status as a bog. The unique ecological environment of the Lohner Sand Nature Reserve also supports specific flora and fauna adapted to sandy terrain, offering opportunities for nature observation.
Many of the natural areas and trails around Handrup are suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners adhere to local regulations. The forest paths around the Witches' Staircase and the trails through the Tangen Gorge are popular choices for dog owners. Always check for specific signage regarding dog access in nature reserves.
Parking availability varies by location. For popular spots like the Kunkenvenne megalithic tomb or the Hahnenmoor Nature Reserve, designated parking areas are often available nearby. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check local maps or route descriptions for information on parking facilities.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Handrup: