Bornhöved’s history can be explored in various ways: the Historic Trail leads through themes from the town’s history, St. Jakobi’s Vicelin Church offers an architectural and historical highlight, and the Old Forge preserves the character of a historic workshop. This allows you to shape your stay around specific places and different ways of exploring history.
The Historic Trail: Sites to Explore on Foot and by Bike
The Historic Trail covers local history from 4000 BC to 1990 and includes 32 sites. Sites up to and including number 20 can be explored on a circular walking route. You can reach other memorial sites by car or bicycle. This means you can choose between different ways to follow the same trail: take a walk along the circular route or travel to other sites. Check the signage and route locally before your trip.
Local History Museum, Forge, and Church
The De ole Rökerkaat Local History Museum presents Bornhöved’s history in an old thatched-roof house. Its themes and exhibits include the Ross family, historical documents, traditional crafts, and a replica of the golden Gönnebek bowl. The museum adds historical materials and crafts to the walking route. As visitor arrangements may change, it is advisable to check the current opening arrangements in advance.
The Old Forge is thought to be Bornhöved’s oldest craftsman’s building. It is used for history, crafts, art exhibitions, and other cultural events; much of its historic workshop character and inventory has been preserved. Visits are possible by prior arrangement. Do not plan a visit without making the necessary arrangements.
St. Jakobi’s Vicelin Church is a Romanesque church consecrated by Bishop Vicelin in 1149. It lies on the Monks’ Way and marks Bornhöved’s historic center. It is therefore another specific point of reference for the town’s history, alongside the trail and forge. Visiting arrangements may change; check the details for your planned date.
More to Explore in the Wider Segeberg Destination Area
If you would like to add nature and culture to your trip beyond Bornhöved’s local history, you will find more options in the wider Segeberg destination area. Eekholt Wildlife Park covers 67 hectares and is home to more than 700 animals from 100 species. Animal numbers may change, so it is a good idea to check them again before your visit.
The landscape also offers a range of options for planning your trip: the Segeberg district brings together forests, lakes, hedgerows, and meadows. Segeberg Forest covers 40 square kilometers and offers a forested setting for nature outings. The district’s hiking trails and paths are suitable for both longer tours and short walks. Guided hikes and nature tours offer insights into local wildlife and plant life. Depending on how much you want to do, you can choose between independent routes and guided activities.
Another cultural option in the wider Segeberg destination area is the Karl May Games: they take place every summer at the open-air theater at the foot of Bad Segeberg’s Kalkberg hill. Each performance can accommodate up to 7,700 spectators. As dates are set annually, check the schedule for your travel period. For a seasonal culinary addition, Gut Stockseehof markets sweet cherries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries directly through the farm and at the farmers’ market, along with other fresh regional produce. Check what is on offer and available for your chosen date.
When choosing a hotel, you can focus on Bornhöved’s historic sites and buildings or include other themes in the wider Segeberg destination area in your plans. For each destination you choose, check the visitor arrangements, event dates, and the best route. This will help you shape your stay around the places that matter most to you.
Discover more destinations: Mözen, Nehms, Bühnsdorf, Travenhorst, Tensfeld, Wiemersdorf, Seth, Goldenbek
To the wider travel overview: Segeberg.
