Anraff: Eder floodplains, cycling routes and experiences

In Anraff, the river landscape and outdoor activities take centre stage. The “Eder floodplains between Bergheim and Wega” nature reserve includes Anraff in Edertal; at the same time, the Hessian long-distance cycle routes R5 and R6 run close to the village along the banks of the Eder. Adventure canoe tours and donkey hikes add to the tourist activities associated with Anraff. You can tailor your stay to different interests: cycling by the river, a trip on the water or a donkey hike.

Eder floodplains and river landscape

The nature reserve covers 70.65 hectares of flowing water, including alluvial woodland, and was designated in 1977. It encompasses a seven-kilometre stretch of river with adjoining riverbanks. The water, banks and alluvial woodland together form the natural landscape that connects Anraff with its surroundings. This is a specific focus for anyone planning a trip around a river landscape.

A named landmark on this stretch of river also helps visitors find their way: a picnic area with seating groups has been set up at Anraff Bridge.

Cycling, canoe tours and donkey hikes

Anraff has a clear connection to the Eder for cyclists: the R5 and R6 long-distance cycle routes run close to the village along the riverbank. Cycling can therefore be a focus of your stay without losing sight of the river landscape. The routes’ proximity to Anraff and their course along the banks of the Eder are the specific features to consider when planning your trip.

Adventure canoe tours and donkey hikes add two more, distinct ways to enjoy the area. There is a specific recommendation for the mini tour on the Eder: it is intended for parents with children who have no paddling experience, and ends in Anraff. This lets you consider a water-based activity with a named endpoint. Donkey hikes offer another way to discover the tourist activities around Anraff. If you are planning a trip with children, you can use the recommendation for the mini tour as a specific point of reference; it applies to this tour and the stated target group.

More experiences in the wider destination of Edertal

The wider destination of Edertal offers a range of activities beyond Anraff. In Giflitz, a village district of Edertal, a historic village trail with 17 stops takes visitors through the village’s history and highlights. In Mehlen, you can pan for Eder gold under expert guidance. Between Mehlen and Giflitz, the Eder floodplain adventure trail invites visitors to hike and cycle through a varied river landscape. So, in addition to the cycling routes near Anraff, there is a trail specifically described for hiking and cycling, as well as opportunities to explore local history and pan for gold.

Other nature and landscape attractions in Edertal offer a different focus: the “Schwimmkaute” and “Krautwiese” nature reserves are former gravel extraction sites that have developed into water-rich habitats. The Eder Dam is another landmark structure in the region, built between 1908 and 1914. The illuminated dam wall is an impressive sight, especially in the evening. Edertal also offers a range of options for cyclists and hikers: cycling tours along Lake Eder, challenging routes through the low mountain landscape and everyday paths between the village districts, as well as relaxing walks and demanding hikes.

If the banks of the Eder, the nature reserve and the cycling routes near Anraff are what appeal to you, focus on Anraff. If you would also like to include village history in Giflitz, gold panning in Mehlen or other landscape attractions, consider the wider destination of Edertal as you make your choice.

Discover more destinations: Kleinern, Mehlen, Bringhausen, Hemfurth, Wellen, Gellershausen.

View the wider travel overview: Edertal.