Dülmen Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Dülmen with our travel guide. Find information about the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Dülmen

Dülmen is a historic town located in Münsterland, in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions, Dülmen is a popular tourist destination in the region. The town is named after the River Dülmener Aa and is situated in the heart of the Baumberge hills, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you want to explore its historical landmarks or spend your days hiking and biking, Dülmen has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Dülmen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dülmen is rich in history and culture, making it a fascinating place to explore. You will find several historical landmarks and museums across the town.

  • Dülmen Parish Church: A gothic-style church dating back to the 14th century.
  • Dülmener Wildpferdebahn: A nature reserve where the wild horses of Dülmen roam freely.
  • Burg Hülshoff: A 14th-century castle and birthplace of the famous German writer, Annette von Droste-Hülshoff.
  • Westphalian Bell Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of bell-making in Westphalia.

Natural Attractions of Dülmen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dülmen is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, giving visitors ample opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

  • Baumberge Hills: A range of low hills that offer fantastic hiking and biking trails.
  • Sandstone Caves: Explore the underground world of Dülmen and discover the natural beauty of the region.
  • Silbersee: A beautiful lake that offers a range of water activities, including swimming, fishing, and boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dülmen

Dülmen is a paradise for nature lovers, with a wealth of hiking and biking trails on offer. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Baumberge Hills Trail: A 60 km trail that winds through the hills, offering stunning views of the landscape.
  • Wildpferde-Route: A 26 km trail that takes you through the Dülmener Wildpferdebahn nature reserve.
  • Burg Hülshoff Trail: A 15 km trail that leads you to the beautiful Burg Hülshoff castle.

Best Things to Do in Dülmen: Activities and Tours

Dülmen offers a range of activities and tours that cater to all interests and budgets. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Horse Riding: Experience the thrill of riding one of the wild horses of Dülmen at the Dülmener Wildpferdebahn nature reserve.
  • Cycling Tour: Explore the scenic beauty of Dülmen on a cycling tour through the Baumberge hills.
  • Silbersee Water Sports: Enjoy a day of swimming, fishing, or boating at the beautiful Silbersee lake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dülmen

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary to help you plan your trip to Dülmen:

Day Activity
1 Explore Dülmen Parish Church and Burg Hülshoff
2 Spend the day hiking in the Baumberge hills
3 Visit the Dülmener Wildpferdebahn nature reserve
4 Take a cycling tour through the Baumberge hills
5 Explore the Westphalian Bell Museum
6 Spend a day at the Silbersee lake
7 Shop for souvenirs and local products before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Dülmen

Must-Try Dishes

Dülmen boasts a range of delicious local dishes that you must try:

  • Dülmener Wildpferde: A dish made with horse meat, a local delicacy.
  • Westphalian Ham: A cured ham that is famous in the region.
  • Pumpernickel Bread: A dense, rye bread that is often served with butter or cheese.

Local Beverages

When it comes to drinks, here are a few local options to try:

  • Korn: A type of schnapps made from grain.
  • Westphalian Beer: A range of local beers that are brewed in the region.

Where to Stay in Dülmen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dülmen offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences:

  • Hotel-Restaurant-Pinocchio: A family-friendly hotel that offers comfortable and affordable rooms.
  • Püning’s Landhotel: A traditional, rural hotel offering cozy rooms and a restaurant that serves local cuisine.
  • Landhaus Menzel: A boutique hotel with stylish rooms and an on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in Dülmen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to take home, here are a few options:

  • Pottery: The region is famous for its pottery that is handmade by local artisans.
  • Horse Figurines: Purchase a wooden figurine of the famous Dülmener Wildpferde.
  • Westphalian Ham: A popular souvenir that travelers often take back with them.

Local Culture and Customs of Dülmen

Dülmen has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its customs and traditions. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Respect for Horses: As the home of the Dülmener Wildpferde, horses are held in high regard in the region.
  • Festivals: The town celebrates a range of festivals throughout the year, including traditional carnivals and wine festivals.

Best Time to Visit Dülmen

The best time to visit Dülmen is in late spring or early autumn when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dülmen

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including the famous Dülmener Wildpferde.
  • Respect the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.
  • Attend local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Use flash photography when visiting the Dülmener Wildpferdebahn nature reserve.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dülmen

Dülmen is a safe and friendly town, but it is always wise to take precautions. Here are a few tips:

  • Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of money.
  • Stay on marked trails when hiking or exploring the outdoors.
  • Observe local traffic laws when driving or cycling.

Health in Dülmen

Medical facilities in Dülmen are of a high standard, and there are several clinics and hospitals in the town. Travelers are advised to take out travel insurance before visiting the region.

Getting to Dülmen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dülmen

The nearest international airport to Dülmen is Düsseldorf Airport, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Dülmen

There are several bus stations in Dülmen, including the Dülmen Bus Station and the Dülmen Bahnhof Bus Station.

Other Options

Travelers can also reach Dülmen by train, with regular services connecting the town to nearby cities and towns.

How to Get Around in Dülmen

The best way to get around Dülmen is on foot, especially when exploring the historic center. However, hiring a car or a bicycle is recommended if you plan to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Dülmen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Dülmen is located in a beautiful region of Germany, with several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, including:

  • Münster: The historic university town of Münster is only a 30-minute drive away.
  • Westphalian Open-Air Museum: A fascinating open-air museum that showcases rural life in Westphalia.
  • Castle Vischering: A stunning medieval castle located just a short drive from Dülmen.

Conclusion

Dülmen is a hidden gem in Germany’s Münsterland region, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you want to explore its historical landmarks, hike the Baumberge hills, or simply relax and enjoy the local cuisine, Dülmen has something to offer for everyone. We hope this travel guide helps you plan your trip to this charming town.

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