In Kalkum, an unusually well-preserved historic ensemble meets the natural attractions of the Kalkumer Forst. The castle, village, church, park, kitchen gardens, and Kalkumer Schlossallee provide a tangible framework for the area's history; wildlife and cycling routes offer a different focus for your stay.

Kalkum Castle and Its Historic Ensemble

Kalkum Castle is one of the most significant moated castles in North Rhine-Westphalia. Together with the village of the same name, the Romanesque parish church, the castle park, the kitchen gardens, and Kalkumer Schlossallee, it forms an unusually well-preserved historic ensemble. Its individual elements are part of a larger whole rather than simply standing side by side as separate attractions.

The castle's present appearance was shaped largely by renovations commissioned from 1809 onward by its then owner, Countess Maria Anna von Hatzfeldt-Wildenburg-Weisweiler. She commissioned the architect Georg Peter Leydel to carry out the extensive work. St. Lambertus Church is also a landmark of Kalkum's architectural history: its origins date to the 12th and 13th centuries, and it is also considered an important example of the Neo-Romanesque style.

Kalkum Castle and its park are listed historic monuments. Those interested in architectural history can therefore focus on both the castle's architectural development and its connection with the park and village.

Castle Park, Water, and Cultural Landscape

The Schwarzbach flows through the castle park and feeds the castle's moat. Another notable spot is the so-called Tempelberg: from here, there are lovely views over the boundary wall and across the surrounding cultural landscape. The stream, moat, and views add a landscape perspective to the architectural history.

Nature and Cycling in the Kalkumer Forst

Deer, foxes, hares, and rabbits live in the Kalkumer Forst, and badgers have also returned to the area. Its diverse stands of mature trees provide food and shelter for many bird species. Cavity-nesting birds, such as woodpeckers, are particularly noteworthy. Wildlife and the forest's structure are thus among Kalkum's defining natural features.

A cycling brochure published in 2019 describes wide, flat, straight paths in the Kalkumer Forst that are suitable for longer rides. As path conditions can change, check the latest information before setting off. Another option is Tour D2, a circular route from Düsseldorf Airport to Kalkum Castle and along the Rhine through Kaiserswerth. Check the route details before you start, too.

Stops and Travel Planning

Kalkum has stops on Kalkumer Schloßallee and at Kalkum Castle. As routes and connections can change, check the latest services for your travel date before setting off. When choosing a holiday apartment, you might first consider whether you want to focus your stay mainly on the castle and its architectural history or on nature and cycling.

More to Explore in the Wider Düsseldorf Destination

The wider Düsseldorf destination also offers distinct cultural, park, and culinary attractions. The Hofgarten is Düsseldorf's oldest public park. It covers around 27 hectares and features a large expanse of water and numerous sculptures. At Carlsplatz, a culinary shopping destination offers Düsseldorf-style home cooking alongside Italian, Indian, French, and Persian dishes. Little Tokyo invites visitors to discover Japanese culture and cuisine, while Düsseldorf's traditional breweries offer a taste of its brewery culture.

Discover more destinations: Rath, Garath, Angermund, Holthausen, Wittlaer, Benrath, Düsseldorf

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