Hidden behind hedges

Gerleve Monastery offers you a suitable starting point for your circular route. The still active Benedictine monastery is able to transmit its decelerating effect to its visitors with ease. The originality of this monastery is impressively set off by the impressive west work with its two high towers - both are 42 metres high! An absolute speciality that you should not miss: Guests are cordially invited to the monks' hourly prayer.

From the monastery, you now cycle downhill through the slightly hilly landscape towards Billerbeck. The mighty towers of Ludgerus Cathedral, once a rebellious symbol of a Catholic peasantry against the Protestant Prussians, appear in the distance. You soon discover the idyllic moated castle of Haus Hameren on your way - hidden yet impressive. The complex dates back to the early 14th century and has been extended and modernised several times. The different construction phases can still be clearly recognised today. The castle is privately owned and is therefore best viewed from a distance.

Near Billerbeck , you should make a short detour to the beautiful little town. The picturesque town offers plenty of culture, culinary delights and provides real aha moments: whether it's the unconventionally large cathedral in the town centre, numerous historic buildings that are listed as historical monuments or the Kolvenburg castle, which houses art exhibitions of the highest quality behind its rustic exterior - Billerbeck never ceases to delight its guests.

Cycle past Billerbeck in the direction of Darfeld. You slowly realise the special nature of this route: gentle hills, babbling rivers, lush meadows. The fascination of the Baumberge and its surrounding area should slowly lift you out of your everyday life and you can sit back and enjoy. On the way towards Varlar, you will pass the Varlarer Schänke pub. You can take a short break in the beer garden, enjoy Westphalian ham specialities and use the charging service for your e-bike.

Your route now continues along the Varlarer Mühlenbach stream past Varlar Castle. This beauty also wants to remain hidden and would prefer to hide behind the highest hedges. View the moated castle, which was once part of an impressive monastery complex, from a distance. The same applies to the Coesfeld hunting lodge, which you will come across on your route. It once belonged to the Varlar monastery, as indicated by the impressive coat of arms stone above the door.

A little off the route is Haus Loburg. A noble residence from the 16th century whose roots are said to go back to Charlemagne. Although it is only possible to visit the outside, the farm shop on the estate is a great place to browse. You now cycle right through the centre of the district town of Coesfeld, where numerous cultural sights and culinary stops beckon. Here you can round off the day before tackling the final section back to Gerleve Abbey.