エスペルカンプの天然記念物・トップ20

Very large observation tower over several floors. Beautifully solidly built, so that even people with a fear of heights can climb up and enjoy the magnificent view without any problems.

Around 11,000 years ago, the Weser formed a gully lake in the area of today's moor. At that time, glaciers prevented the Weser from taking a northerly course as it does today, and it ran westwards north of the Wiehen Hills. When the glaciers melted and the Weser flowed northwards again, the gully lake silted up and became a moor that stretched parallel to the mountains for over 20 kilometres north of the Wiehen Hills. The maximum width of this "primeval moor" was three kilometres at the time. At first a fen developed, but then gradually a raised bog, the remains of which are now known as the Great Peat Moor. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gro%C3%9Fes_Torfmoor

Limberg Castle looks back on a long and eventful history. It was probably founded in Widukind's time and was owned by the Bishop of Minden 1000 years ago. Limberg Castle has only been officially documented since 1319 and was owned by the Counts of Ravensberg and was one of the four border castles in the Ravensberg region, of which the Sparrenburg in Bielefeld is probably the most famous. The count's house died out in 1346, but the county of Ravensberg remained for a long time under the heirs of the House of Jülich-Berg. The castle changed hands several times, and their names are often found in the region (von dem Bussche, Schloen, Gesmold or Ledebur). Of course, there were also some border disputes. The castle, which has since fallen into disrepair, was approved for demolition in 1695, so that the foundations can still be seen today. Only the keep was preserved and was actually used as a prison for some time. Today, it is the keep that is the most striking feature of the ruins of Limberg Castle. If you like, you can borrow a key from the tourist information office. Despite the fact that most of the castle has disappeared, they really make every effort to present the castle ruins in the best possible way. The grounds are not only extremely well maintained, but are also well signposted. The castle's eventful history alone is described on 4 information boards. There is also further information on the various parts of the building. 2 very interesting audio contributions can also be accessed via QR code! And all of this in a comfortable rest area! There are many castle ruins in this region, but for me, Limberg Castle is always one of the most beautiful due to its state of preservation and atmosphere! Just relax and take in the long history of the castle. PS: In the guest house you can see a model of the castle complex, showing how it is supposed to have looked in its full size.

...a really idyllic spot...

+++ I was particularly impressed by the Moorschnucken. These serve to protect the moor, similar to the sheep in the north to protect the dyke. +++You are near P6 (car park 6) at the south tower.

+++The moor is characterized by 3 hiking trails, which are marked on posts in blue, red and yellow. +++2, 2.5 and 7.5 km long paths await visitors. +++ Sufficient notice and information boards make the moor a very interesting place for excursions for young and old, i.e. also for families with children.

In autumn you can marvel at the faded heathland, the colorful and contrasting moor landscape with its many characteristic mini lakes, the so-called moor biotopes, in which the plants and tree stumps are reflected, and of course photograph them...

In autumn you can marvel at the faded heather, the colorful and contrasting moor landscape with its many characteristic mini lakes, the so-called moor biotopes, in which the plants and tree stumps are reflected and, of course, photographed...