Bielefeld in nestled in the confines of the Teutoburg Forest. This location right in the middle of a regal forest allows for a multitude of green and natural recreational activities.
Tierpark Olderdissen (Olderdissen Animal Park)
The Olderdissen Animal Park (Dornberger Straße 151) was opened in 1930 and since then has held a special place in the hearts of Bielefelders. It began with simple origins, as a nursery for fawns, and run by the town forester. It has since evolved into a 15 hectare park with over 450 animals.
Situated in the picturesque Teutoburg Forest, you’ll be treated not only to wildlife, but to idyllic meadows, ponds and, of course, trees. Don’t miss the local’s favorite attraction, the brown bear enclosure!
Japanese Garden
This Bielefeld nature park is not what you might expect to find in a German city. The Japanese Garden (Quellenhofweg 125) will transport you from 21st Century Europe to 18th century Edo.
Opened in 2003, this garden was built according to the philosophy of “Karesansui,” which is a landscape garden primarily made of sand and rock. So if you’re searching for a bit of Zen in Bielefeld, now you know where to go. ;-)
Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for a more authentically European garden experience, then you’re in luck. The Botanischer Garten or Botanical Garden (Am Kahlenberg) offers just that. The beautiful landscape is adorned with gardens and plants.
The real show-stoppers are the rhododendron and azalea flowers. But be sure to seek out the alpine beds, rock gardens, herb exhibits, gardens of heather and the beech wood.
Obersee Lake And Viaduct
This Bielefeld park is surely the most unique. The Obersee Lake and Viaduct (Am Obersee) provides a wonderful juxtaposition of the beauty of nature and the elegance of architecture. The viaduct at Schildesche is a majestically arching structure, built in 1847 to connect Bielefeld to the Cologne-Minden railway system. The surrounding area consists of 18 hectares of beautiful greenery.
The Obersee Lake offers ample opportunities for water recreation, hiking, jogging and cycling.
