Grafschafter Trace Search - In the footsteps of the Bentheim landscape sheep

Nordlohne is the easternmost place in the district of Bentheim and is therefore often referred to as the gateway to the neighboring Emsland. A wide forest and heath area extends between Nordlohne and the Emsland village of Schepsdorf, intersected by dune ridges. The area was used as a training ground by the Wehrmacht from 1935 to 1945, by the British Army after the war, and by the Bundeswehr from 1956 to 2007. After the Bundeswehr ceased use, they left behind a 300-hectare area, mostly in its natural state. Therefore, the municipality of Wietmarschen came up with an idea for its subsequent use. This is how the former military area became the present-day recreational area Lohner Sand. A nature trail was created in the large forest and heath area, providing information on all aspects of the local animal and plant life.
If you happen to encounter sheep while hiking, you will get to know the rare and endangered Bentheimer Landsheep in its natural habitat. The sheep breed is considered highly endangered. In the 1970s, there were only three breeders left, holding a total of 50 Bentheimer Landsheep. Fortunately, the population has since recovered.
Note: Follow the yellow signage!