Best attractions and places to see around Apen, a municipality in the district of Ammerland, Lower Saxony, Germany, offer a blend of historical sites and natural beauty. Historically a fortress town, Apen features landmarks like the St. Nikolai Church, built around 1230, and the former moat of its demolished fortress. The region is characterized by green spaces, cultivated parks, and lakes, providing diverse opportunities for exploration.
Last updated: July 20, 2026
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🚲✨ The Lorenz von Ehren and Johann Bruns tree nurseries are two of the world's leading names when it comes to cultivating impressive solitary trees and artfully shaped topiary. If you are out and about in Ammerland (Bad Zwischenahn and Westerstede), you are virtually passing through the 'nursery' for the green landmarks of European metropolises.
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Topiary Trees In addition to the wide range of naturally grown deciduous and coniferous trees, Bruns Plants offers a rich selection of elaborately shaped trees that can serve as structural elements, contrasting stylistic elements, or striking focal points. The broad range of these precious solitary trees includes large bonsai, trees grown in cones, spheres, boxes, or umbrella-shaped forms. Other trees impress with espalier or roof-shaped crowns, and we can also fulfill special requests such as figures and company logos. All plants are shaped by our specialists with passion, utmost professionalism, and sensitivity. Your imagination knows no bounds – we make it happen.
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Nice view of the tree nursery.
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A beautiful section of the sea route.
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The Lorenz von Ehren tree nursery has a large number of old, unusual solitary trees and artistically trimmed topiaries for sale in these open spaces.
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In the middle of nature: a dream
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Beware of pedestrians... Drive moderately.
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Apen boasts a rich history, evident in sites like the St. Nikolai Church, built around 1230, which stands as an important landmark in the Rathausmarkt area. You can also see the former moat of the fortress, offering a glimpse into Apen's past as a crucial border town. Additionally, the St. John the Baptist Church in Augustfehn is another architectural point of interest.
Yes, the Apen region offers several natural and cultivated green spaces. You can visit the Park Gardens and a Kurpark for relaxation and strolls. The Lake Zwischenahn, known as the 'Pearl of the Ammerland,' is the third largest inland lake in Lower Saxony and a popular spot for water sports. While not directly in Apen, the Rhododendronpark Hobbie is a specific cultivated natural area worth exploring.
The area around Apen is excellent for outdoor activities, especially cycling and hiking. You can find numerous routes, such as the 'Water route – themed bike Tours in Ammerland' for touring bicycles or the 'Hengstforder Mill – Aper Tief Nature Reserve loop' for hiking. For more options, explore the cycling routes around Apen or the hiking trails around Apen.
Families can enjoy several attractions in the Apen area. The Wooden boardwalk in Kurpark, Bad Zwischenahn is noted for being a fun and scenic section to ride or walk. Lake Zwischenahn is also considered family-friendly, offering opportunities for water sports and lakeside activities. The Landerlebnis Janßen provides a countryside experience suitable for all ages.
You can visit the Sculpted Trees at Baumschule Lorenz von Ehren. This location features a large number of old, unusual solitary trees and artistically trimmed topiaries, offering a unique visual experience of beautifully shaped trees.
While specific seasonal details for Apen are not provided, generally, spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities in Lower Saxony, offering pleasant weather for cycling, hiking, and enjoying lakes. If you are interested in the Rhododendronpark Hobbie, spring is typically the best season to witness the rhododendrons in bloom.
Yes, the Westerstede Market Square is listed as wheelchair accessible, offering a redesigned urban space with a unique fountain system. Additionally, Barßel Marina is also noted for its accessibility, allowing visitors to enjoy the views and facilities.
The region offers several water-based activities. Lake Zwischenahn is an ideal area for water sports. Additionally, the Badesee Großsander provides a natural swimming lake for recreation. At Barßel Marina, you can enjoy views of the harbor, and there are options for boat trips on the MS Spitzhörn.
The Westerstede Market Square was significantly modernized in the 1980s and features a unique circular and tiered fountain system designed by Alice Peters-Ohsam. It's also where the town hall is located, which houses the tourist information center, offering advice and maps for the area.
Apen has a long-standing tradition of holding an autumn market, established in 1582. This market continues to be celebrated annually. For current event information, it's recommended to check local tourism resources, often available at places like the tourist information in Westerstede.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical sites and natural beauty. The Wooden boardwalk in Kurpark, Bad Zwischenahn is highlighted for being a fun and well-made section to ride. The Lake Zwischenahn is loved for its beautiful natural landscape and water sports opportunities. The Sculpted Trees at Baumschule Lorenz von Ehren are noted for their unique and artistically trimmed appearance.
Yes, there are several cycling routes. For example, the 'Bridge Over the Aper Tief – Jümme River loop from Augustfehn' is a moderate 68 km route, and the 'Aper Tief nature reserve – Jümme River loop from Nordloh' is an easier 30 km option. You can find more details and routes on the cycling guide for Apen.


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