Open above through the Emsland

Endless horizons, gentle hills, and charming towns – the Emsland is a perfect destination for a convertible tour. The well-developed roads lead through green moor landscapes, historic villages, and along idyllic rivers. This round trip combines relaxed cruising with exciting stops and genuine insider tips.

Relaxed drive through the green heart of northern Germany

Start in Papenburg – The City of Ocean Giants

The tour begins in Papenburg, the oldest peat colony in Germany. The Meyer Werft is the most famous attraction here. In the gigantic halls, some of the largest cruise ships in the world are constructed. After a visit to the shipyard, a walk along the main canal is recommended, where historic sailing ships are docked. If you want to take a shipyard tour, plan at least two hours.

From Papenburg, the convertible road trip continues on quiet country roads to Leer.

Leer – Historic port and East Frisian charm

Leer is known as the "Gateway to East Frisia" and impresses with its beautiful old town filled with historic buildings and a maritime atmosphere. Particularly noteworthy is the weighing house at the port. If you have some time, you can also visit the Evenburg with its impressive castle park. A short coffee break in one of the harbor cafes is worthwhile.

Afterward, the journey continues toward Meppen.

Meppen – Relaxation by the Ems

After a relaxed drive through vast moor landscapes, you will reach Meppen, the heart of the Emsland. The town lies idyllically on the Ems and is crisscrossed by canals. The historic old town with the old town hall invites you for a stroll.

Also worth seeing are the Kreuzkirche and the old fortress buildings. Meppen is a perfect place for a lunch break – in the restaurants along the Ems, you can enjoy fresh fish and regional specialties. From Meppen, the convertible route continues to Haselünne.

Haselünne – Distilleries and half-timbered charm

Haselünne is the oldest town in the Emsland and the center of the grain distillery tradition. Here, there are several distilleries that offer tours and tastings. The old town is characterized by beautiful half-timbered houses and small shops. A bottle of regional spirit is an ideal souvenir. After Haselünne, the route leads into the Hümmling, one of the most picturesque landscapes of the Emsland.

The Hümmling – Nature, burial mounds, and a baroque castle

The Hümmling surprises with gentle hills and dense forests – a rarity in the otherwise flat northern German landscape. It is worth stopping at the burial mounds of Groß Berßen, which are among the oldest attractions in the region.

A true highlight is the Clemenswerth Castle in Sögel. The unique star-shaped castle complex from the 18th century is a popular destination and features impressive architecture. A walk through the castle park is an ideal opportunity to stretch your legs.

A small detour leads to Esterwegen, where the memorial of the former concentration camp is located – an important place of remembrance. Afterward, the convertible route continues to Werlte.

Werlte – Historic mills and landscape panoramas

Werlte is known for its well-preserved windmills. If you want to take a short break on the convertible route, you can visit the Hüvener Mill, one of the last combined wind and watermills in Germany. This section is also picturesque: gentle hills and expansive meadows shape the scenery. If you feel like a short hike, you can explore the Hümmling Nature Park. From Werlte, the journey continues via Börger and Neubörger on beautiful country roads toward Dörpen.

Dörpen – Idyllic waterways and the Emsland Moor Museum

Dörpen lies right on the Ems and is a relaxed place for a short break. Not far away is the Emsland Moor Museum, which showcases the history of peat cutting and the unique flora and fauna of the moor areas. A visit to the museum provides interesting insights into the region's development. Now, it's time to head back toward Papenburg.

Why a convertible tour through the Emsland is perfect

The Emsland is ideal for a convertible tour as the roads are mostly lightly trafficked and wind pleasantly along rivers, moors, and forests. Here, you can enjoy the landscape without stress, leisurely cruise through charming small towns, and stop at interesting places.

Tips for your convertible tour

The best time for a convertible tour through the Spessart is in spring and autumn, when the temperatures are pleasant and the landscape shines in lush green or warm autumn colors. Since the open country roads can be windy, it is advisable to bring a light jacket or scarf.

Along the convertible route, numerous viewpoints and attractions invite you to pause and enjoy nature and historical places at your leisure. As there may not be gas stations everywhere in rural areas, it's wise to refuel in advance to continue your ride without worries.

Driving a convertible through the Emsland

This convertible tour through the Emsland combines relaxed cruising with exciting sights, beautiful nature, and an interesting blend of history and culture. The route leads through picturesque villages, past historic mills, ancient burial mounds, and impressive buildings like Clemenswerth Castle or the Meyer Werft. Here, vast moor landscapes alternate with gentle hills – a rare combination in northern Germany that makes every drive special.

The roads are mostly lightly trafficked, well-developed, and offer just the right mix of relaxed straight stretches and gentle curves for a pleasant driving flow. Whether you choose to stop at a cozy distillery, take a walk through the heath, or pause at a small canal café – the options for personalizing your convertible trip are diverse.