4.5
(2798)
11,769
hikers
10
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Alfhausen-Rieste traverse a diverse landscape, characterized by expansive water bodies, wetlands, grasslands, and forests. This region, designated entirely as a nature reserve, features the main Alfsee basin, a sedimentation basin, and a reserve basin with a central lake. Hiking paths often follow dikes, offering elevated viewpoints over the water and surrounding natural areas. The varied terrain provides accessible routes for exploring this internationally significant habitat for water birds.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
4.6
(125)
481
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(397)
1,642
hikers
10.5km
02:39
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.2
(14)
96
hikers
4.69km
01:11
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
18
hikers
8.91km
02:15
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(7)
19
hikers
3.63km
00:55
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Alfhausen-Rieste
It's a nice, quiet place to walk around, especially in the morning.
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The Alfsee was artificially created to regulate the water level of the Hase River and to facilitate agriculture in the Hase floodplains. This recreational lake is dammed by this dam. From here, you have a fantastic view of the large reservoir. Walking across the dam is definitely worth it.
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A popular refuge for waterfowl of all kinds. Since the area is also quite wooded, it's not possible to see deep into the reserve basin from every corner. Depending on the wildlife activity, the path along the dike can be quite lengthy.
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short shelter
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Alfsee, located southeast of Alfhausen, a few hundred meters east of the B 68, can be reached from this federal highway and from the Neuenkirchen-Vörden junction of the A 1, which runs just to the east. Rieste train station, served hourly from Bremen (via Delmenhorst) and Osnabrück, is only about 1,800 meters from Alfsee.
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There are 10 family-friendly hiking trails in the Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Alfhausen-Rieste region. Most of these, 8 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.
The trails offer a diverse mix of terrain, from well-maintained paths, some paved, to loose surfaces. You'll encounter open water views, wetlands, grasslands, and wooded areas, providing a dynamic and engaging environment for families. Hiking along the dikes also offers excellent panoramic views over the expansive water bodies.
Yes, for a shorter, easy loop, consider the Alfsee South Dam loop from Feuchtgrünland südwestlich Burlager Ort. It's just over 3 km long and offers a pleasant walk for families.
The region is rich in natural beauty and points of interest. You'll find diverse water bodies including the main Alfsee and the Alfsee Reserve Basin Nature Reserve. The Alfsee Overflow Weir is particularly recommended for its great views and the sound of rushing water. The area is also an internationally significant habitat for water birds, so keep an eye out for various species.
Absolutely! Many trails provide excellent views. For a particularly scenic experience, try the Alfsee South Dam – View of the Alfsee loop from Rüsskamps Pött, which offers fantastic perspectives of the lake. The dikes themselves also serve as elevated viewpoints.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.47 stars from over 2600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the diverse landscapes of water, wetlands, grasslands, and forests, and the excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
Yes, the Alfsee Campsite – Alfsee loop from Rieste is an easy, circular route just under 5 km, perfect for families looking for a convenient starting point and a pleasant walk around the lake.
Yes, the Naturschutz- und Bildungszentrum Alfsee (Alfsee Nature and Education Center) is located within the area and offers exhibitions and events. It's a great place to gain educational insights into the local ecosystem, especially for curious children.
For exploring the north shore and getting views of the Reserve Basin, the North shore of the Alfsee – Viewpoint Reserve Basin Alfsee loop from Rieste is an excellent easy option. It's about 7.5 km and offers diverse scenery.
The Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Alfhausen-Rieste is beautiful year-round. However, spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for hiking, with milder temperatures and vibrant natural colors. These seasons also offer prime opportunities for birdwatching as many species migrate through or overwinter in the area.
For families seeking a slightly longer and more challenging, yet still moderate, hike, consider the Alfsee South Dam – Alfsee loop from Rieste. This route is around 8.9 km and offers a rewarding experience with varied views.


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