ニーダークリュテンでののおすすめグラベルライド

非常に風光明媚でリラックスできる環境です。

Many juniper bushes grow on this heath, some of which are several meters tall. The area is known as the largest juniper heath in the Lower Rhine region. This makes it a rare and valuable nature reserve, as this type of heath is scarce nowadays. The juniper heath originated from human use of the landscape in the past. Grazing by sheep and land use created an open heath landscape in which juniper bushes could grow. Nowadays, this landscape is actively maintained, including through grazing by heath sheep, to prevent it from turning into forest. The area is also important for animals. Various bird species, such as the nightjar and the woodlark, live on the heath. In addition, many insects, reptiles, and amphibians are found here. Due to the combination of wet and dry areas, the biodiversity here is very high.

Keverberg Castle is a historic castle in the village of Kessel in the province of Limburg. The castle stands on an artificial hill along the River Maas and is one of the oldest fortresses in the Netherlands. The castle's origins date back to around the year 1000. At that time, there was initially a watchtower on an artificial hill, a so-called motte. The tower had an important function because it overlooked the Maas and a major trade route between Antwerp and Cologne. Ships and merchants traveling along this route were required to pay tolls. The Counts of Kessel used this site as their residence and a defensive point. From the castle, they governed a large area in North Limburg and parts of present-day Germany. In 1279, the castle was sold to Reinald I, the Count of Gelre. The last Count of Kessel had to sell the territory due to financial problems. As a result, Kessel came under the authority of the Duchy of Gelre. Later, the castle changed owners several more times. Families such as the Van Merwijck and later the Van Keverberg family lived there. Eventually, the last noble resident gave up the castle in the 19th century. Afterward, the building was used by cloister nuns, among others. During the Second World War, the castle was severely damaged. In 1944, retreating German soldiers blew up the castle due to its strategic location. After the war, only a ruin remained for a long time. The castle remained a ruin for decades. It was not until the 21st century that the decision was made to rebuild the castle. It was restored between 2014 and 2015. During this restoration, the old architectural style was combined with modern materials such as glass and steel. As a result, it has become a remarkable castle where history and modern architecture come together.

Whether by bike or on foot, exploring this region is a true pleasure.

There are many juniper bushes here. You don't find juniper berries in many places.

There are many puddles, ponds and wetlands here

Beautiful view over the heathland. Especially beautiful during the heather bloom in August.

Magnificent views over the heathland. Especially beautiful during the heather bloom in mid-August.