The blue water of Obermaubach Dam shimmers peacefully.  When you close your eyes, you can hear the gentle sound of the water lapping at the banks of the reservoir. The circular trail by the water is always a good weekend plan for switching off and immersing yourself in nature.

Route facts: The circular trail is seven kilometres long and takes around two hours. You start and finish the walk by the car park opposite Café Flink. You can also reach the dam with the Rurtalbahn train (Obermaubach station).

Technical information: The dam was built in 1933/34. Like the neighbouring Rurtalsperre dam, it serves to regulate the flow of the Rur and generate electricity. A particular feature of this dam is its salmon ladder, the highest in the state of North-Rhine Westphalia.

Nature highlights: The charms of the Obermauchbach dam differ with each season. In early summer, its wild fruit trees and yellow broom bushes provide a riot of colour. In autumn, you can walk amidst the colourful foliage, and in winter you might be lucky enough to observe wintertime visitors such as barnacle geese and bean geese. 

For the kids: With its swings and slides, the woodland playground is the best feature of the route for young walkers. 

For four-legged friends: Dogs are always welcome on this route. However, they must remain on lead so as to not disturb the geese, beavers and other wildlife. 

Yummy! After your walk, a slice of cake and a cup of coffee in one of the local cafés and restaurants will taste twice as good.