BE 3 - Around Bad Essen

A tour through the villages and the naturally rural field, forest, and meadow landscape around Bad Essen: The route passes through nine districts of the salt spa town, crosses the Wiehengebirge ridge twice in the shade of cool deciduous forests, and visits the two most famous sights of the Cittaslow community.
First, the petrified dinosaur tracks in the old quarry in Barkhausen: Life-sized replicas show the eleven different animals that immortalized themselves here 150 million years ago. The exciting information boards of the TERRA.vita Nature and UNESCO Geopark reveal why the paw prints were preserved and how the Wiehengebirge was formed.
Second, the tour visits Ippenburg Castle, nationally known for its English-style garden festivals. Unfortunately, the park and gardens can only be visited during the festivals and on certain weekends in summer. However, the landscape park of Hünnefeld Castle is accessible at any time – at least from May to October. Additionally, the Café Alte Rentei is open on weekends.
In addition to other charming landmarks such as the Wittlager Mill and Wittlage Castle, nature shines along the way. At times, the tour follows the course of the Hunte, which has carved a pretty valley through the Wiehengebirge. Later, the Wierau, a tributary of the Hase river, accompanies cyclists.

Lastly, a stroll through Bad Essen is worthwhile. Right at the entrance to the village stands the historic water mill, which operates on Sundays from April to October. Next to it, the Sheep Stable, a more than 200-year-old half-timbered building, provides the Kunst- and Museumskreis Bad Essen with space for events and exhibitions. Cyclists can find peace and relaxation after the tour in the flower-rich Kurpark with its elegant SoleArena.