A hamlet by the locks
Osen lies between the lock complexes of Heel and Linne. In the past, many residents worked here as lock keepers or lock masters, supervising this extensive system of locks and weirs.
Since 1994, cyclists and other two-wheeled vehicles have been able to cross the Linne weir. This route provides a direct connection between Linne and Heel. From the eastern side of the locks, you can look out over the Maas-Seen and the Gerelingsplas.
Flower-filled riverbanks and grazing Galloways
The nature reserve near Osen covers approximately 82 hectares. It includes the Molengreend, the area around the Overlaat van Linne and the western side of the Gerelingsplas. During summer, many different flowers bloom along the riverbanks, creating colourful scenery, especially in late summer.
A small herd of Galloway cattle grazes here throughout the year. The cattle help keep the landscape open. As the animals roam freely, dogs are not allowed in the nature reserve. Dogs are permitted on the paved road across the Overlaat, provided they are kept on a leash.
The Overlaat van Linne and the banks of the Molengreend are freely accessible to walkers. A cycle path also runs across the Overlaat, connecting the western and eastern banks of the River Meuse via the weir.
Birdlife around the lakes
The Gerelingsplas and the enclosed Spoorplas form an important habitat for waterbirds. Small islands are covered with willow woodland. Great crested grebes and Eurasian coots nest along the shoreline, while a beaver lodge can also be found in the woodland.
During winter, large numbers of tufted ducks and common pochards stay here. Cormorants and geese also visit the lakes regularly. In June and July, moulting geese use the calm waters, where they spend several weeks unable to fly and benefit from the peaceful surroundings.
The Overlaat van Linne has a very different appearance. During periods of high water, the River Meuse flows around the weir here. At low water levels, a quiet branch of the river remains. Tall poplar trees line the dikes, while the vegetation beneath provides shelter for breeding birds, including the Savi's warbler.
Put on your walking shoes or hop on your bike and discover how water, birds and riverside nature come together around Osen.