Attractions and Places To See around Kempen - Top 20

Kempen boasts a rich history, particularly in its well-preserved historic old town. You can wander through streets like Judenstraße to admire intricately ornamented buildings such as House Basels (1885) and House Witthoff–Peerbooms (1741). Don't miss the impressive Kurkölnische Landesburg (Kempen Castle), located within a park adjacent to the old town, or the medieval Cow Gate and Old City Wall. For cultural insights, visit the Cultural Forum Franciscan Monastery, which houses the Kramer Museum and the Museum for Lower-Rhine Sacred Art.

Absolutely. The region around Kempen offers several beautiful natural spots. The Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee are ideal for walking and cycling, providing picturesque views and paths leading to fishing piers. You can also explore the Niers River near Viersen, which has a pleasant bike path and numerous spots for breaks. Another significant natural feature is Schadbruch, an extensive forest area with streams and wetlands between St. Hubert and Tönisberg.

Kempen is a great starting point for various cycling adventures. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, gravel biking, and general bike paths. For example, the Niers Riverside Trail offers a scenic ride following the Niers River. You can explore more options, including routes like the 'North Canal – Heerenven Observation Tower loop' or 'Kempen's Historic Old Town – Branch channel loop', by checking the dedicated guides for Road Cycling Routes around Kempen and Gravel biking around Kempen.

Yes, Kempen offers several family-friendly options. The Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee are perfect for family walks and cycling. The Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center provides educational insights into local wildlife and nature, making it an engaging stop for all ages. The historic old town itself is a charming place for families to explore, with its unique architecture and central Buttermarket.

The Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center is an excellent resource, featuring information boards that help visitors learn about the local wildlife and the nature reserve. The Schroliksee Viewing Platform also has explanatory boards about resident swimming birds, and bat walks are sometimes offered there.

Kempen's historic old town is often called the 'Pearl of the Lower Rhine' due to its beautifully restored buildings, including numerous half-timbered and patrician houses. It offers a unique atmosphere that blends history with modern life. A newly designed tour, complete with QR codes and a mobile app, guides visitors through historical sites, city walls, and monuments, providing a deeper understanding of its rich past.

Yes, the area around Kempen is well-suited for walking and running. The Krickenbecker Lakes offer wonderful paths for leisurely strolls, and the surrounding green belt provides ample space for longer walks. For dedicated runners, there are several running trails, such as the 'Traffic practice area Kempen – Entenweiher loop' or the 'Illuminated cow gate loop'. You can find more detailed routes in the Running Trails around Kempen guide.

The Buttermarket is a central square in Kempen's historic old town. It's known for its Mediterranean atmosphere, especially during pleasant weather, and is home to a diverse range of gastronomic options. It's a great spot to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the town's vibrant ambiance.

Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty and tranquility of the natural areas, such as the Krickenbecker Lakes, which are described as 'wonderful to walk around or cycle around' with 'charming views.' The Niers River is also popular for its pleasant bike path and numerous spots for breaks. The historical charm of Kempen's old town and its well-preserved architecture also receive high praise.

Yes, Kempen is notable as the home of the mystic Thomas von Kempen (Thomas à Kempis), who authored the world-renowned book 'The Imitation of Christ'. His legacy is an important part of the town's cultural heritage.

Yes, several spots offer great views. The Schroliksee Viewing Platform provides excellent vistas of the lake landscape and its birdlife. Additionally, many points along the Krickenbecker Lakes and the Niers River offer picturesque views, especially for photographers.