Rastdorf – A Colony’s History on the Hümmling

Rastdorf is an idyllic linear village on the Hümmling and was founded as a colony in 1833. Its long, straight streets are considered a regional curiosity. Two historical points of interest are the Koloniestein, which presents Rastdorf’s history from 1833 to 1943, and the Wahner Zimmer, which commemorates the former village of Wahn and its residents. The countryside around Rastdorf is ideal for hiking. The village thus combines a clearly defined historical theme with the opportunity to make time outdoors part of your stay.

Colonial history and historic routes

The Koloniestein presents Rastdorf’s history from 1833 to 1943. The start of this period coincides with the village’s founding as a colony and gives the historical presentation a clear framework. The Koloniestein was renovated and enhanced in 2024. The work included path construction and planting; a shelter was also built.

Historically, three colony sites on Quäkenberg were intended as places for walkers and churchgoers to rest and relax. Resting places were also planned along Kirchweg; repeated deaths during severe winters provided the historical context. This history of the routes helps explain the importance once assigned to places for resting and recreation.

The Wahner Zimmer and the former village of Wahn

The Wahner Zimmer exhibition is housed in a half-timbered building and documents the former village of Wahn and its residents. Maps and models show where the village buildings once stood. In this way, the exhibition preserves memories of both the locations of the former buildings and the people who lived there. Wahn was completely demolished during the Second World War to make room for an expanded shooting range.

To arrange a visit to the Wahner Zimmer, you can contact the municipality of Rastdorf or the local heritage association. Visits to the Wahner Zimmer and the Koloniestein can be arranged through the heritage association. As advance arrangements may be necessary, confirm your visit and the current booking details beforehand.

The Emsland as a regional setting

Beyond Rastdorf itself, the Emsland offers more to explore for nature lovers and cycling enthusiasts. The regional cycling junction network covers 2,660 kilometres, and there are more than 50 themed day tours. The Emsland also offers outings along the Ems and Hase rivers and to bathing lakes. These options are part of the Emsland region and do not describe the streets or paths in Rastdorf.

Hümmling Nature Park covers around 580 square kilometres in the northeast of the district of Emsland. Cycling and hiking trails run through the nature park, passing information stations at historic sites, megalithic tombs and Clemenswerth Palace. One specific walking route in the Emsland is the Kranichpfad: it leads into Theikenmeer Nature Reserve over a distance of around 2.5 kilometres. The return route follows the same path, making the total walking distance about five kilometres.

Discover more destinations: Renkenberge, Holthausen, Werpeloh, Surwold, Meppen, Esterwegen, Geeste, Lünne

For the main travel overview: Emsland.