Herrenmoor Nature Reserve near Kleve
Herrenmoor Nature Reserve near Kleve
Highlight • Natural Monument
Cycling
5.0
(57)
The Herrenmoor bei Kleve Nature Reserve is a significant natural monument located in the German state of Schleswig-Holstein, within the Steinburg district. Situated at an elevation of 33 meters, this unique area represents an ancient high moor remnant, transitioning from the Elbmarsch into the Geest region. It is framed by the villages of Kleve, Nutteln, Vaalermoor, Moorhusen, and Neuendorf-Sachsenbande, making it a prominent natural landmark in the region.
Visitors are consistently drawn to the Herrenmoor bei Kleve for its remarkable ecological restoration and the opportunity to witness a rare, actively re-naturalized high moor ecosystem. Many appreciate the extensive re-wetting efforts that have transformed the landscape since the 1990s, reversing historical drainage and creating a vital habitat for numerous species. The tranquil views over the renatured moor are a particular highlight, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Before visiting the Herrenmoor bei Kleve Nature Reserve, it's helpful to know that conditions can be wet, especially after rain or during certain seasons, so wearing rubber boots is highly recommended. While some paths are suitable for cycling, many areas are best explored on foot. Hikers should be aware that dogs are generally not permitted on tours, and it's crucial to stay on designated paths to protect the delicate ecosystem. Parking is available, and the reserve can be circumnavigated from areas like Nuttelner Vierth.
The Herrenmoor bei Kleve is an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts throughout the year, though the heather bloom offers a particularly beautiful experience. It provides opportunities for hiking and walking, allowing visitors to observe specialized flora like peat mosses, cotton grasses, and sundew. The reserve is also a haven for wildlife, with chances to spot moor frogs, adders, and various bird species such as the short-eared owl and common snipe, making it a prime spot for wildlife Herrenmoor bei Kleve sightings.
One popular way to experience the Herrenmoor bei Kleve is by circumnavigating it on foot from Nuttelner Vierth, utilizing the municipal paths that offer diverse views of the landscape. A small oak plank path on the Nutteln moor side provides an intimate look into the moor grassland areas, showcasing the ongoing moor development. These routes offer a moderate walking experience, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the reserve's unique terrain.
Being there, visitors often remark on the sense of witnessing a living restoration project, with the re-wetting initiatives visibly bringing the moor back to life. The presence of grazing Moorschnucken sheep and goats adds to the authentic moorland atmosphere, contributing to vegetation management. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature, observing the specialized plants and animals that thrive in this carefully preserved environment.
Whether you're interested in a leisurely walk or a more extensive hike, the Herrenmoor bei Kleve offers a variety of routes to explore its diverse landscapes, from high moor remnants to wet grasslands and the Klevhang. Discover the best walks near Herrenmoor bei Kleve and plan your visit using the komoot route planner, which provides numerous options for hiking and cycling to suit different preferences and abilities.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Herrenmoor bei Kleve
Tips
October 31, 2021
Cycling
December 21, 2022
Cycling
May 9, 2022
Cycling

Sign up for a free komoot account to get 2 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Herrenmoor Nature Reserve near Kleve

5.0
(9)
26
riders
49.8km
03:03
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(4)
31
riders
40.1km
02:26
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(5)
28
riders
44.0km
02:38
110m
110m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 30 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 9 June
18°C
8°C
60 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
The reserve features a diverse landscape, primarily ancient high moor remnants, but also includes adjacent wet grasslands and parts of the Klevhang (slope). While some areas are partially overgrown with bushes or moorland forests, re-wetting efforts mean many paths can be quite wet and boggy. Hikers should be prepared for soft ground, especially after rain, and consider wearing rubber boots.
Yes, the reserve can be circumnavigated on foot from areas like Nuttelner Vierth using municipal paths. There's also a small oak plank path on the Nutteln moor side that leads into the moor grassland areas, offering an intimate look at the developing moor. These routes provide moderate walking experiences and allow for comprehensive exploration.
Parking is generally available at various access points around the reserve, such as near Nuttelner Vierth. There is also an observation point in the south of the reserve that is accessible by vehicle. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for designated parking areas.
The reserve offers a unique educational experience for families, showcasing a rare and actively restored high moor ecosystem. Children can learn about specialized plants and wildlife. However, due to potentially wet and uneven paths, and the need to stay on designated routes to protect the delicate environment, it's best suited for families who enjoy nature walks and are prepared for potentially muddy conditions.
To protect the sensitive ecosystem and its wildlife, dogs are generally not allowed on tours or off-leash within the Herrenmoor bei Kleve Nature Reserve. Visitors should adhere to posted regulations to ensure the preservation of this important habitat.
The reserve is framed by several villages including Kleve, Nutteln, Vaalermoor, Moorhusen, and Neuendorf-Sachsenbande. While the reserve itself does not have facilities, you can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in these nearby communities, particularly in Kleve (Kreis Steinburg).
The reserve is a vital habitat for diverse wildlife. Thanks to re-wetting efforts, species like the moor frog have returned, and adders (Kreuzottern) are present. Birdwatchers might spot short-eared owls, common snipes, curlews, whinchats, and common redshanks. During summer, you might also see 'Moorschnucken' sheep and goats grazing, which help manage vegetation.
Herrenmoor bei Kleve is primarily an ancient high moor remnant, situated at the edge of the Elbmarsch and transitioning into the Geest region. Its uniqueness lies in its high-quality, species-rich raised bog remnants and the ongoing re-wetting initiatives that are restoring its original water conditions. This process allows for the resurgence of typical moor vegetation like peat mosses, which are crucial for high moor formation.
As a nature reserve, there are typically no entry fees required to access Herrenmoor bei Kleve. However, visitors are expected to respect the conservation guidelines, such as staying on designated paths and not disturbing wildlife, to ensure the preservation of the area.
While some paths are municipal and may be relatively even, the nature of a high moor means many areas can be wet, soft, and uneven, especially the oak plank path leading into the moor grassland. This might present challenges for visitors with mobility issues or those using wheelchairs. It's recommended to assess current conditions if accessibility is a primary concern.
To observe the specialized flora, late spring through summer is generally ideal. Carnivorous plants like sundew are typically visible during the warmer months. The heather bloom, which offers a particularly beautiful experience, usually occurs in late summer to early autumn, transforming parts of the landscape with vibrant purple hues.