Pannerden: Nature, Routes and History

A stay in Pannerden can be shaped by a variety of interests: landscapes, routes along the water or regional history. The Rijnstrangen nature area lies between Lobith and Pannerden and is part of the Rijntakken Natura 2000 site. The routes, structures and historical themes differ in whether they focus on nature, water management or local history.

Rijnstrangen, Routes and Birdlife

The “Tussen Oude Rijn en Oude Waal” route passes through Rijnstrangen, a nature area with diverse flora and fauna. It provides a habitat for wetland birds such as the great reed warbler, Eurasian bittern, little bittern and penduline tit. In spring, black terns nest there on artificial nests among the aquatic plants. For nature enthusiasts, the distinction in timing is relevant: the habitat is home to several of the bird species mentioned, while the black tern’s nesting activity is specifically associated with spring.

The route combines landscape and history: it passes the “dode” kraan, which symbolizes the decline of the brick industry, and explores the history of an ancient Roman settlement in Pannerden. Nature, the memory of the brick industry and the history of Roman settlement thus come together along one route.

Canals and Architectural History

Knooppad 5 starts in Pannerden at H. Martinuskerk and follows the Pannerdensch Kanaal and the Bijlandsch Kanaal. This gives it a different focus from the “Tussen Oude Rijn en Oude Waal” route: that route foregrounds Rijnstrangen and historical themes, while the church as its starting point and the two canals are key landmarks on Knooppad 5.

The Pannerdensch Kanaal was initially constructed as a line of defense in the early 18th century. Its historical function adds an earlier military significance to the canal’s role in today’s routes. The Martinuskerk in Pannerden was consecrated in 1878 and is a municipal monument. The farm complex and fruit wall at De Raayhof, Pannerdense Waard 14/15, are also listed as municipal monuments in Pannerden. These structures offer a different perspective from the canal’s history: here, the focus is on a year of consecration, a farm complex and a fruit wall.

Visit Gemaal Oude Rijn

Tours of Gemaal Oude Rijn are available by appointment. Visitors can see the engine room and learn about the history of the old pumping station. An interior visit, which also includes a view of the old machinery, is possible when the large gates in the dike are open. If you are planning a visit, arrange a tour and check in advance whether the gates will be open. This helps you keep the scheduled tour times and the condition for viewing the interior in mind separately.

A Crossing in the Rijnstrangen Area

In the Rijnstrangen area, the Berghoofdse Veer cable ferry provides a self-operated crossing over an old river channel. The crossing is used on walking and cycling routes. As water conditions can affect its operation, take them into account when planning your route. In addition to routes focused on nature and history, this offers a practical crossing option for walking and cycling routes in the Rijnstrangen area.

Discover more destinations: Lobith, Spijk, Herwen, Tolkamer.

Return to the main travel overview: Rijnwaarden.