Bockholter Berge

Bockholter Berge is a nature reserve near Greven featuring a mix of pine forests, sand dunes, and heathland across about 61 hectares. The landscape sits between the Ems River and Schiffahrter Damm, with oak forests in the northern section and mixed pine forests combined with open sandy areas and juniper shrubs in the central zone.

The area gained protected status in 1939 and documents a major transformation of the landscape. Between 1850 and 1900, the open heathland gradually became forested, a shift that shapes the reserve today.

A memorial cross and plaque were installed in 2001 to commemorate two Polish prisoners of war who were executed at this location in 1942.

Visitors should know that regular maintenance like deforestation and bush removal happens to preserve the area's heathland character. The best time to explore is during stable weather, as sandy areas and boggy sections become difficult to access in wet conditions.

A memorial cross and plaque installed in 2001 honor two Polish prisoners of war executed here in 1942. This quiet location thus carries both natural beauty and the weight of historical remembrance.