Spelle is in the Emsland district of Lower Saxony, around 20 kilometres southeast of Lingen and about 10 kilometres north of Rheine. Historic farm architecture, industrial history and the restored Speller Dose give this destination a range of distinctive features. When planning your trip, you can first consider whether you are more interested in architectural and industrial history, cycling, or seasonal group activities.
Cycling Paths and Routes
Cycling is one of the tourism highlights of the Spelle Joint Municipality. Its cycling network connects to the Emsland Route and the Dortmund-Ems Canal Route, and a junction-based route system offers additional options. When planning, it is worth distinguishing between these two approaches: connections to the named routes and navigation via numbered junctions. Check current route conditions before setting out on a cycling trip. The three-stage circular route “Fascination Southern Emsland” passes through Spelle; check the current route before planning your trip here, too.
Farmhouse History and Technology
Wöhlehof is the last surviving half-timbered farmhouse in the municipality of Spelle. Its main building was constructed in 1791 in the style of a Lower Saxon farmhouse. The Hölscherhof Museum Barn is housed in former farm barns dating from 1943 that have been converted into a museum. Agricultural tools and machinery from the Spelle area are on display there. The farm architecture and regional agricultural technology thus offer two different ways to explore the area’s history.
The KRONE Museum tells the story of the family and the company, from a small forge to a global manufacturer of agricultural machinery and commercial vehicles. Group tours are available outside regular opening hours by prior arrangement. If you are planning a tour, check the current booking conditions in advance.
Venhaus and the Moorland
Venhaus Castle Park is on the site of a former moated castle; today, the Catholic Church of St Vitus stands on the grounds. The castle park serves as an interactive environmental education garden. At Speller Dose, the focus is on the moorland rather than architectural history: it is an upland bog of around 57 hectares that has been rewetted and successfully restored.
Seasonal Activities and Dining
The Spelle Joint Municipality’s group activities include the “Buurnhochtied” and “Töddenspiele” programmes. Since their dates may change, check the latest information before making plans. Brewery tours are also part of the tourism offering; check availability before visiting.
During the colder months, cycling and walking paths serve as lanes for BoĂźeln, a traditional ball-throwing game. The activity combines walking, fitness and relaxation. At the end of BoĂźeln tours, participating inns serve a typical kale meal, a seasonal tradition. In addition, the inns in the Spelle Joint Municipality offer everything from homemade cakes and fine dining to traditional dishes. Individual establishments and menus may change; for a particular offering, it is best to contact the establishment directly.
Discover more destinations: Meppen, Lähden, Lehe, Niederlangen, Vrees, Fresenburg, Dohren, Haselünne.
See the overview of destinations: Emsland.
