Mother Nature has something extra-special in store at Moosheide nature conservation area: from a jetty you can look down over the sources of the Ems river. After exploring the origins of the river in Hövelhof, the medieval "double town" of Rheda-Wiedenbrück awaits. The two parts of the town are linked not just by the river Ems, but also by the exceptionally beautiful riverside park Flora Westfalica.In the university city of Münster you'll be amazed at how modern living has blended seamlessly with the medieval cityscape and its magnificent historical buildings.

In Rheine you have another chance to enjoy the cosy atmosphere of a historical old quarter and some idyllic riverside scenery along the Ems. After this the river opens up its horizons, with the Emsland region stretching as far as the eye can see, setting the scene for breathtaking sunsets. The river almost loses itself amid the abundance of canals and lakes that abound in this region, which lives by and from the water. It has shaped the character of both the former fortress town of Lingen and Meppen with its old quarter. Papenburg, a town with a long shipbuilding tradition, is criss-crossed by canals, spanned by a large number of drawbridges and bascule bridges.

The old port and trading town of Leer marks the beginnings of the East Friesland region, while the sea port of Emden looks out over the North Sea. Attractions include Emden Art Gallery (see picture) with important works by contemporary artists