Description
The Gildehauser Venn is a natural peatland area located near the German-Dutch border. This peatland landscape features wet, spongy soils dominated by sphagnum moss and other typical bog vegetation. It serves as a vital habitat for a variety of rare plants, birds, amphibians, and insects. The nature reserve of 650 hectares has wet heathland, raised bog, ponds and birch forest.
In winter you can observe water birds such as Krdža, Čegrtuša, Ćubasta patka, Riđoglava patka and different geese like Kanadska guska, Belolika guska and Guska glogovnjača (tundranska). Around the birch trees look for Drozd imelaš and Mali drozd. In spring and summer you can see or hear Poljska ševa, Obična kukavica and Vuga. During migration you have a chance of spotting Ždral making a stop in the area. From the observation towers often Poljska eja or Eja močvarica can be seen.
Details
Access
Gildehauser Venn is located between the towns of Gronau and Bad Bentheim, close to the border with the Netherlands. Press P on the map for directions to a parking spot. There is no designated parking area, you have to park on the side of the road.
The walk through the area goes from one observation tower to the other. This takes about half an hour. You can then walk back around the area, but taking back the same route is faster and keeps you within the area. This path is only suitable for walking. The access route is via an unpaved road. This takes you close to the observation tower, so you don't have to walk far with the telescope. Note: the walk can be muddy, so make sure you wear good, waterproof footwear.


