Tankenberg / Twentse heuvels

Rolling landscape on the border with Germany

The Tankenberg lies just east of Oldenzaal, on the transition from the Netherlands into the German Münsterland. It is one of the higher points in Twente, though the summit sits at just over 80 meters. That sounds modest, but in this otherwise flat country you notice it immediately. The gently rolling slopes, the broad essen spreading out as pale patches between the trees, the open view to the east: this is one of the few places in Overijssel where you genuinely feel the landscape breathe.

The combination of ancient field complexes, hedgerows, deciduous woodland and sunken lanes makes the Tankenberg special. It is a cultural landscape that has looked this way for centuries. You can see that in the structure, in the scale, in the way the plots lie against the hillside.

Why fall works here

In fall this landscape really comes into its own. The beech woods turn from ochre yellow to reddish brown, and when mist sits in the valleys you get that layering that gives landscape photographs weight. Early in the morning the light is soft and low, and the mist lifts slowly from the lower-lying areas. That adds depth to your image without you having to do much for it.

Late October and early November are generally the strongest weeks. After a cold night the chance of ground mist is greatest. Arrive before sunrise. The light catches the higher trees before it reaches the valleys, which creates pleasing contrast.

Compositions and focal points

A telephoto zoom around 70-200mm works well for compressing the layers of the landscape. The essen, with their light color, stand out against darker woodland edges and those are your anchor points. Sunken lanes or rows of trees as a leading line towards an open field give direction to the image. With a wide angle, say 24mm or 35mm, you are better off working close to a striking element, such as a gnarled oak or a path climbing the slope.

Seek out the edges too. Where woodland gives way to open land you will almost always find interesting texture and transition.

Practical

There are several parking options around the Tankenberg, including along the Tankenbergweg near Oldenzaal. The area is freely accessible and there is a network of footpaths. No permit is needed for photography. It is a popular walking area, so on Sunday mornings in season you will encounter other people. During the week it is quieter.

Sources and further reading

• Natuurmonumenten – Tankenberg en Oldenzaalse Veen
• Gemeente Oldenzaal – natuur en landschap
• Landschap Overijssel – Twentse essen en houtwallen