Spenge brings together several themes for a stay: the history of the Werburg complex, churches with medieval architectural features, and trails around Hücker Moor. When looking for accommodation in Spenge, you can choose your focus based on whether architectural and church history or walks by the water are more important to you.

Werburg, churches and architectural history

The Werburg complex is a lowland castle site first mentioned in official records in 1468. The eastern gatehouse and parts of the manor house are architecturally in the Lippe-Weser Renaissance style. Schloss Mühlenburg, its park pond and the courtyard fountain can be viewed from outside.

The Marienkirche Wallenbrück is Spenge’s oldest church. Its Romanesque tower dates from the 12th century; the 1624 organ is considered the third oldest in Westphalia. St. Martin’s Church also spans several centuries: the present church was built in the second half of the 13th century, the St. Martin’s altar dates from the 15th century and has been back in the church since 1993.

Hücker Moor: landscape and circular trail

At about twelve hectares, Hücker Moor is the largest body of water in the Herford district. The moor lake formed after peat extraction ended and the excavated basin filled with water. By the lake, you can walk along the shore, go boating and eat at establishments with direct access to the water.

A circular trail about 3.5 kilometres long leads around Hücker Moor and includes views from the Paradies viewpoint. The south shore is a protected zone and must not be entered. Check the current protection rules before setting out on the trail.

Hiking trails by route type

The trails vary in length and route: the Mühlenweg, also known as the Mühlradweg, runs for nine kilometres to Werburg Spenge or Spenge Town Hall. The Segelschiffweg, also known as the Schiffchenweg, is about 13 kilometres long and leads towards Hücker Moor. The Spangenweg, about 16 kilometres long, is a circular route around Spenge. This gives you the choice of a route with named destinations, a trail towards the moor and a circular route.

Maps and information boards for finding your way are available at the car park opposite Schloss Mühlenburg. A separate board at the Werburg complex describes shorter walks. This makes it easy to choose between longer named routes and shorter walks when planning.

Windmill, nature education centre and outdoor pool

The Hücker-Aschen windmill was built in 1861 and is a restored example of historic milling technology. The Hücker-Aschen local history association offers visits; check in advance for possible dates. In the Katzenholz woods is the Hühnerhaus, a former woodland workers’ cottage that is maintained as a nature discovery centre. The sunken lane is considered a historic feature of land use and a refuge for animals and plants.

The Werburger Waldbad has a diving tower, a non-swimmer area, step-free access and a children’s pool. As facilities and operating arrangements may change, check the latest operating information before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Enger, Bünde, Hiddenhausen, Sundern, Vlotho, Kirchlengern, Herford, Rödinghausen

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