At the intersection of the 6th eastern meridian and the 51st parallel, a monument in Gangelt commemorates Mercator. The town also has surviving sections of its fortifications and themed routes that can be explored independently. These different attractions give you several ways to discover Gangelt, depending on how much time you have and what interests you.
Mercator and the fortified town
The Bruch Gate is one of three surviving city gates in the fortified town of Gangelt. The castle tower is another surviving part of the former fortifications. It was first mentioned in 1364 as part of a territorial lord’s castle. The monument, gate and tower each offer a different perspective: the Mercator monument refers to coordinates and remembrance, while Bruch Gate and the castle tower are part of the history of the fortified town.
Routes with different themes and durations
The themed routes can be explored without a guide. Their stated durations range from around one hour to one or two hours, helping you choose a suitable time slot. Families and children aged ten and over can try an approximately one-hour medieval route with a questionnaire. Also designed for families and children aged ten and over, the approximately 90-minute sculpture walk includes a questionnaire. This lets you choose between a medieval theme and sculptures, even though the target groups or approximate durations may differ.
The approximately 90-minute Mercator Special is a GPS treasure hunt for people aged ten and over and for groups. The answers can be found on information boards. Another route with a different focus is the approximately one-hour Trail of Discovery, which provides information and background stories about Jewish families and is intended for people aged 14 and over as well as families. The age requirements distinguish these experiences from routes designed for children aged ten and over.
The Mill Rally runs from mill to mill through the Rodebach Valley, takes one to two hours and is intended for families. Its questions focus on the route, reading and observation. Alongside questionnaire and GPS activities, it also features tasks to complete along the way. Check that the routes are available before your trip.
Getting your bearings at the Rodebach and activities at Kahnweiher
The information centre at Gangelt outdoor swimming pool is the gateway to the Rodebach Nature and Landscape Park. Signposted walking, cycling and horse-riding trails lead into the park from there. An outdoor fitness trail stretches along Gangelt’s Kahnweiher and can be used for workouts; access to the trail may vary. Check before your visit. Rowing boats are also available to rent at the pond. Check in advance whether this is currently available.
Gangelt in the wider Heinsberg destination
The Teverener Heide is also one of the nature destinations in the wider Heinsberg area. This 450-hectare nature reserve extends across the municipality of Gangelt and the towns of Geilenkirchen and Übach-Palenberg. Four circular trails offer different distances: the Moor Trail is 5.8 kilometres long, the Heath Trail 6 kilometres, the Lakes Trail 7.1 kilometres and the Grand Trail 9.4 kilometres. The starting points are at the designated car parks in Scherpenseel, Grotenrath and Hohenbusch. These trail details complement Gangelt’s shorter themed routes with several longer circular walks; trail conditions can change.
Discover more destinations: Geilenkirchen, Wegberg, HĂĽckelhoven, TĂĽddern, Holzweiler, Selfkant, Erkelenz, Heinsberg.
Return to the main travel overview: Heinsberg.
