Schwalmtal cycling loop

The signposted circular route passes by a variety of mills. Water mills have existed on the Lower Rhine at least since the 13th century. The Schwalm once powered 23 mills on its 32-kilometer course from the source to its mouth into the Meuse at Swalmen. Its tributaries powered 15 mills. The mills ground grain, oil crops (rapeseed, flax), and bark (for tanning) or rags (textile scraps) for papermaking. They fullered hides and fabrics and powered sawmills. The starting point of this route is the marketplace in the historic town center of Waldniel with the imposing Catholic parish church St. Michael ("Schwalmtal Cathedral"). Via Ungerath, it continues on unpaved paths through the Schomm forest area and over the Lousberg to the former Pannenmühle from the 17th century in the scenic Schwalm lowlands. After crossing the Schwalm, turn right, passing the sports park, through the center of Niederkrüchten and towards the district of Brempt with its Chapel St. Georg from the 15th century. Slightly off the circular route, the old Brempt Mill can be reached via a detour. The route continues to the recreational area of Hariksee with the island castle. The lake is a popular excursion destination with the passenger ship "Patschel" and a boat rental. To the north of the lake stands the former Mühlrather Mill with a large water wheel and a built fish ladder. The route leads further north past the quiet Borner See. Slightly off the route is a former grain, oil, fulling, and tanning mill, the so-called Borner Mill. On the way back to Waldniel, it first goes through Born, then past the Heidweiher beach bath, and through Amern along the beautiful Kranenbach valley on a former railway line.