Großefehn: Discover Water and Fehn Culture

Discover Großefehn through two very different themes: water at Timmeler Meer and the history of the Fehn landscape. There are also hiking trails in Timmel and Westgroßefehn, as well as windmills that are part of the town’s cultural identity. If you are planning a trip, you can choose between activities on the water, walking the trails and learning about peatland development and sailing.

Water at Timmeler Meer

Timmeler Meer covers 25 hectares. There are opportunities for swimming, motorboating and other watersports. A pedal boat and motorboat rental service is also available at the Timmeler Meer marina. These two specific boating options add to the other activities on the water. If you would like to use one of the rental boats, check locally to find out whether the service is currently operating.

Hiking trails of varying lengths

If you would rather spend time on hiking trails than take part in water activities, the spa resorts of Timmel and Westgroßefehn offer four trails of varying lengths. The trails can be used with a wheeled walker or wheelchair, or have a signposted accessible alternative route. Both trail length and the available mobility option can therefore help you choose. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

Fehn culture in the museum and windmills

In Westgroßefehn, the “Eiland” Fehn Museum presents the development from raised bog to today’s cultivated landscape. Another focus is the history of sailing in the East Frisian Fehn regions. Landscape development and maritime history offer two distinct ways to explore Fehn culture.

The windmills are also among Großefehn’s most distinctive cultural landmarks: of the 19 that once stood here, five are still in working order. They are thatched-gallery Dutch windmills. The contrast between the number that once existed and the five still functioning today gives a tangible sense of the history of the windmills.

Nature in an open garden

In the open garden “Thedas Tuun,” a wetland habitat provides a protected home for animals and plants. Visitors can learn more about the flora and fauna on guided group tours. Advance registration is required for these tours; contact the garden directly to check current dates.

In the wider destination of Aurich

In the wider destination of Aurich, the Fehntjer Tief Nature Conservation Station is an extracurricular learning site for environmental education, as well as a place for meeting and public outreach. The station works to preserve the natural and cultural landscape of “Fehntjer Tief.” In spring and summer, students and visitors can explore the plants and birdlife in the Fehntjer Tief’s wet meadows by bicycle or on foot.

The listed Gulfhaus at the nature conservation station is also a typical East Frisian farmhouse dating from 1843. Its architectural style and date of construction add a historical perspective on East Frisian building culture to the focus on nature and landscape.

Choose accommodation based on your interests

If you are travelling with family, it can help to first decide which shared experiences matter most: water activities, hiking trails or cultural themes each offer a different focus. Tailor your accommodation search to what you would like to experience in Großefehn.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Strackholt, Timmel, Lütetsburg, Marienhafe, Südbrookmerland, Leezdorf, Aurich, Norden.

Return to the wider travel overview: Aurich.