Discover Verden: Cycling Routes, Nature and Culture

Cycling routes and seasonal river crossings

The Wümme Cycle Route is around 60 kilometres long and passes through the Wümme lowlands. It forms part of the approximately 250-kilometre Wümme long-distance cycle route, which runs from the Lüneburg Heath to the Weser. The cycling network in the district of Verden is also fully signposted. The two routes offer different options for planning: the Wümme Cycle Route is one section of a longer long-distance route, while the Aller Cycle Route follows a circular route between Verden and Rethem.

At Otersen and Westen, the historic ferry near the Amtshaus lets cyclists cross the Aller on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 1 May to 3 October. This shortens the route. If you plan to take the ferry, check the timetable and operating days before setting off.

The Dörverden weir offers another seasonal crossing: pedestrians and cyclists can cross the Weser there from 15 March to 15 October. The route goes over steps; side channels are provided for wheeling bicycles. Check the current conditions before setting off. The ferry and the weir differ both in their operating periods and in how the crossing is made.

Dune landscapes and hiking trails

In the Dünengebiet und Halsetal nature reserve near Verden-Neumühlen, the northern slope of the Verden dunes meets the Halsebach valley. Complex, closely interwoven biotope structures lie at this transition, and the area is notable for its distinctive character and beauty. Signposted hiking trails let you explore the landscape on foot. The nature reserve offers a different focus from the cycling routes: here, the meeting of the dune slope and the valley, as well as the small-scale structure of the habitats, take centre stage.

Architectural history and cultural attractions

The Erbhof in Thedinghausen was built by Bremen Archbishop Johann Friedrich between 1619 and 1621. This listed building is of regional importance. Its restored ballroom is used for readings and concerts. Etelsen Castle reflects a different architectural style: it was built in the historicist style and has an original, well-preserved façade. Its halls, salons and corridors have been restored in keeping with the period.

A historic site can also be made out in the landscape at Barme: a medieval motte with a half-timbered tower once stood on a hill surrounded by a moat. In Diensthop, a reconstruction of a burial mound offers a different perspective on history. Visitors can look inside the mound, which is bisected by a vertical section wall. A massive oak tree coffin stands in front of it.

At Kulturgut Ehmken Hoff, two historic, renovated farmhouses serve as a cultural centre and meeting place. Various exhibitions are held there throughout the year, including a permanent exhibition on archaeological finds from the area. The windmill in Dörverden was renovated with heritage conservation in mind and restored to working order.

A glimpse into everyday life, crafts and nature

The historic Hülsen sheepfold quarter consists of ten barns, which are protected as a listed ensemble. Two barns are used as exhibition spaces for old farming and craft equipment; they can only be viewed from the outside. On baking days during the summer months, Hülsen bread and butter cake are baked there the traditional way. Visitors who are interested can learn how the baking is done and how the oven works.

The information centre for potash mining in Hülsen uses objects, tools, salt cores, miners’ clothing, pictures, plans and graphics to give an impression of the economic boom at the time and what life was like then. The Wolfcenter Dörverden programme includes guided tours of about an hour on wolf biology and ecology, as well as feeding demonstrations.

Find the right holiday apartment for your trip

When looking for a holiday apartment in Verden, the kind of holiday you have in mind can be a good place to start. Cycling tours and river crossings bring routes and seasonal conditions into focus; hiking trails, architectural history and exhibitions offer different highlights.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Neddenaverbergen, Langwedel, Dörverden, Emtinghausen, Riede, Kirchlinteln, Verden, Oyten, Etelsen, Achim, Ottersberg, Thedinghausen, Morsum.

Go to the main travel overview: Lower Saxony.