Discover Herzlake: History, Moor and Hase

Herzlake combines traces of history with experiences in nature: St. Nicholas Church is around 700 years old, Aseburg is an early medieval fortification connected with the town’s history, and the Hahnenmoor lies between Herzlake and Grafeld. Cycling and hiking trails in the joint municipality, along with the canoe landing on the Hase, round out the picture. This lets you choose different focuses for your trip, from history and moorland to outdoor activities.

Church, Fortification and Mill History

St. Nicholas Church in Herzlake is around 700 years old. Aseburg is an early medieval fortification connected with Herzlake’s history. The Kanonenberge burial ground is another historic sight in Herzlake. The Aselager Mill adds an example of historic milling technology to these landmarks: it is a cap windmill dating from 1860 and can be viewed from the outside at any time. Please observe local access conditions. The church, fortification, burial ground and mill show different facets of history rather than focusing on just one period.

Moorland and Peat History

The Hahnenmoor nature reserve lies between Herzlake and Grafeld and covers around 620 hectares. The observation platform is located directly on the Hünenweg long-distance hiking trail and can be reached from the Hahnenmoor Peat Works Information Centre. The Hahnenmoor is accessible at any time; local notices may provide information about temporary closures. Also check the latest details about the route and platform before setting out. An exhibition at the Hahnenmoor Peat Works traces the history of the Hahnenmoor, and parts of the historic production facilities have been preserved. Guided tours are also offered; please check their availability before your visit. The platform and exhibition offer different perspectives: one looks out over the moorland, while the other focuses on its history.

Trails and Water: Cycling, Hiking and Canoeing

The joint municipality of Herzlake has a well-developed network of cycling and hiking trails. You can use it to plan days on foot or by bike. Motorized boat traffic is not permitted on the Hase. From the motorhome site, you can reach the Herzlake canoe landing by crossing the Hase from Dohren and following the “Boat Landing” sign. Since the canoe map is older, check the signs and parking situation locally. This gives you different options when planning: trails on land and access for canoeing.

When looking for accommodation for a stay in Herzlake, it helps to decide first what you want to focus on during your trip: history, observing the moor, or active days on foot, by bike and by canoe. This helps you tailor your choice to the character of your trip.

The Emsland as a Wider Destination

The Hümmling Nature Park lies in the northeast of the Emsland district, within the wider Emsland destination, and covers around 580 square kilometres. Cycling and hiking trails with information points along the way pass historic sites, megalithic tombs and Clemenswerth Baroque Palace. The Emsland thus adds another travel focus: a distinct, extensive landscape and cultural region.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Rastdorf, Dersum, Kluse, Heede, Lähden, Meppen, Walchum, Sögel.

To the wider travel overview: Emsland.