Moormerland is a young community, formed in 1973 by combining eleven independent municipalities near the Dutch border. Its name harks back to the Middle Ages, but the current town bears little resemblance to its sprawling forbearer, which once incorporated the capital of Leer.
You will find Gandersum Church to be among the oldest establishments in the area. Originally created in the 14th century, it has been rebuilt several times following numerous fires. Its bell dates back to 1774.
Rorichum Church was also founded in the 14th century, and its tower has survived intact. Also, Hatshausen Church has been around since 1783. But most of the structures in the vicinity, religious and otherwise, are relatively new.
One attraction you will want to see is the gigantic Emssperrwerk Dam. Finished in 2002, it is one of the largest and most modern facilities of its kind in all of Europe. Tours are available, featuring local guides as well as video presentations.
Other must-sees are the Dutch-style windmills nearby, attesting to how close you are to the Holland border. There is also a Fen Museum, where you can learn more about life and history of the surrounding lowlands
With canals, rivers and waterways so plentiful here, cycling, boating and fishing are quite naturally the preferred pastimes here. Shopping is popular, too, with numerous small boutiques you will want to visit.
Then, when it comes time for dining, you may have difficulty making a choice from so many fine restaurants close at hand. Cozy local bistros serve up Dutch-influenced seafood dishes, or you can have your pick of Chinese, Italian, Greek and Indian cuisines. There is even a grill house if you have a hearty appetite.
And don’t forget to save room for dessert. Cafés, ice-cream parlors, beer gardens and pizzerias abound, for snacking at your leisure.
