Art & Nature
Niersauen Trail, SALIX art project and the nature of the Lower Rhine
The Niers Meadows
Burg Uda lies in the heart of one of the most beautiful natural landscapes of the Lower Rhine. The Niers meadows with their pollard willows, reed beds and restored oxbow lake provide habitat for a diverse range of wildlife. As part of the Schwalm-Nette Nature Park, the region is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.
The Niersauen Trail
The Niersauen Trail is a certified premium walking path that starts right at Burg Uda. Over 3.9 kilometres, it leads through the picturesque river landscape of the Niers, offering surprising views at every turn.
Start: Burg Uda car park
Difficulty: Easy, suitable for families
The SALIX Art Project
Art and nature in dialogue
Along the Niersauen Trail and around Burg Uda, walkers encounter installations from the SALIX art project. SALIX (Latin for "willow") combines landscape art with the natural materials of the region.
The artworks blend harmoniously into the landscape, inviting visitors to pause and reflect. They explore the interplay between humans and nature, the history of the cultural landscape and the passage of time – fitting themes near the castle ruins, themselves a monument to time.
Willow Art
Sculptures and installations made from woven willow branches – the characteristic material of the Niers meadows. The works change with the seasons and become part of nature.
Land Art
Artists create works directly in and with the landscape. Stones, wood, earth and water become artworks that merge with their surroundings.
Sound Installations
At selected points along the trail, wind and water create sounds that draw attention to the natural acoustics of the landscape.
The Park Guardians
A special feature of the Niersauen Trail are the so-called "Park Guardians" – carved wooden figures standing at prominent points along the walking route. They recall historical personalities and mythical figures from the history of Oedt and Burg Uda.
The Park Guardians are a popular photo opportunity and make the trail especially exciting for children. Each figure has its own story to tell.
Flora & Fauna
Biodiversity in the Niers meadows
Wildlife
• Beaver – returned to the Niers meadows
• Kingfisher – the "flying jewel"
• Reed warbler – in the reed beds
• Dragonflies – over 20 species at the oxbow
• Heron – grey heron and great egret
• Amphibians – in the restored oxbow lake
Plant Life
• Pollard willows – define the landscape
• Reed beds – bird sanctuary
• Alder & ash – riparian woodland
• Marsh marigold – in spring
• Aquatic plants – in the oxbow lake
• Wild herbs – on the wet meadows
Schwalm-Nette Nature Park
The Niers meadows are part of the Schwalm-Nette Nature Park, one of the most diverse natural landscapes in North Rhine-Westphalia. The nature park covers 435 square kilometres between Mönchengladbach, Viersen and the Dutch border.
The "Wasser.Wander.Welt." network connects the most beautiful corners of the nature park through award-winning hiking trails.
More Walking Trails
✓ Galgenvenn Circuit (4.2 km)
✓ Brachter Wald (5.8 km)
✓ Elmpter Schwalmbruch (6.3 km)
✓ Rothenbach Circuit (3.5 km)
Practical Tips
Best Season
Spring: Bird songs, first blossoms
Summer: Lush vegetation, dragonflies
Autumn: Golden colours, migratory birds
Winter: Quiet landscape, beaver tracks
What to Bring
✓ Sturdy footwear (paths can be wet)
✓ Binoculars for birdwatching
✓ Camera for the landscape
✓ Weatherproof clothing
✓ Drinks and snacks
Combine Culture and Nature
Start your day with a walk through the Niers meadows and then visit Burg Uda and the local heritage museum.
Plan Your Visit