Bedburg offers a variety of attractions side by side: the moated castle in the town centre, medieval Alt-Kaster and paths along the Erft and the lakes. Whether you want to focus on cultural history, observing nature or outdoor activities, you can plan your visit around the locations and their distinctive features.
Moated Castle and Alt-Kaster
Bedburg Moated Castle dates back to the 12th century and is one of the oldest brick buildings in the Rhineland. It stands in the town centre, in a park with mature trees, and is surrounded by a pond on two sides. The castle’s present-day use adds to its historical significance: cultural events, conferences, weddings and other private celebrations are held here. If you are planning to attend a particular event or make use of the venue, check availability in advance.
Alt-Kaster presents a different historical townscape. Its medieval character is reflected in the town gates, castle and outer bailey, the market square with its old gabled houses, as well as the town walls and defensive towers. Kaster was first mentioned as a town in 1339. Guided tours explain the historical background and share anecdotes; check tour dates and arrangements before travelling.
Hiking Trails and Nature by the Water
The Werwolf hiking trail connects Alt-Kaster with the recreational area around Kasterer See and follows the Erft directly into Bedburg town centre. It can also be walked as a circular route in two stages. Seven stops lead to locations associated with the historically documented werewolf of Epprath. The route combines local history with a hike; check the route details before setting out.
The recreational area around Kasterer See includes the approximately 8-hectare Kasterer Höhe woodland and the lake nestled within it. The southwest shore is used for recreation, while the eastern shore is largely inaccessible and reserved for nature. Wetland habitats and nesting sites for waterbirds are located there. The lake is up to 1,000 m long and 125 m wide, making it suitable for nature walks. The shores therefore differ considerably: one is for recreation, while the other is a protected natural area.
The Klärteiche nature reserve is also shaped by water and birdlife. It has developed into a shallow body of water rich in frogs and aquatic plants. Its waters are an important breeding and resting site for waterbirds and waders. Bedburg also has an extensive network of hiking and trekking trails along the Erft and around Kasterer See and Peringssee. The Wasserburgen Route cycle route passes through Bedburg; check the signage and local conditions before setting off.
Museums, a Windmill and Leisure Activities
The Rosengart Automobile Museum in Bedburg-Rath is dedicated to Lucien Rosengart and his historic vehicles. Another technical attraction is the Grottenherten Windmill, built by Anton Iven in 1831. It lies about 1 km east of the twin village of Kirch-Grottenherten, amid the fertile farmland of the Jülicher Börde. Its two milling mechanisms are still operational and can be powered by the wind.
In the Bedburg district of Lipp, there is a free multi-generational playground and sports park with a wide range of sports and leisure activities. Its centrepiece is a large pump track for cyclists, as well as for inline skates and skateboards. As individual facilities may change, check what is currently available before your visit. A mini-golf course with 18 holes is located right next to Bedburg outdoor swimming pool. Visitors to the pool can use it free of charge; it operates seasonally, so it is worth checking the latest information.
A recurring event for arts and crafts is the market in Alt-Kaster’s historic old town on the first weekend of July. Dates and programme details may change, so check the latest information if you are planning your visit around it.
Bedburg therefore offers a variety of options to suit different travel interests: the castle and Alt-Kaster showcase local and architectural history, Kasterer See and the Klärteiche invite visitors to observe nature, while the windmill and automobile museum explore technical subjects. Hiking and cycling trails add opportunities to spend time outdoors.
Discover more destinations: Kirchherten, Buir, BrĂĽhl, Erftstadt, Kerpen, HĂĽrth, Wesseling, Elsdorf.
Go to the main travel overview: Rhein-Erft-Kreis.
