Beauties in black and whiteHistoric town centres

Rheda-Wiedenbrück has retained its historic charm with its quaint restaurants and many restored little houses. Amidst winding alleyways and cobbled streets, visitors feel transported back in time. The impressive architecture of the old town, which includes both half-timbered houses and magnificent town houses, invites you to immerse yourself in the history of this town and be enchanted by its timeless beauty. We particularly recommend a trip to the moated castle of Rheda, where the princely Bentheim-Tecklenburg family resides. The imposing castle complex, which looks back on centuries of history, forms the heart of the town and is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a symbol of the splendour of times gone by.

In the midst of forests and meadow valleys, black and white half-timbered houses huddle close together and form the "Old Spot" - this is what the people of Freudenberg call their historic old town centre, which is also very popular as a photo spot. Here, where time seems to stand still, picturesque alleyways and squares open up, exuding the charm of bygone eras. The narrow streets, lined with lovingly restored half-timbered houses, tell of a lively history that stretches back to the Middle Ages. The windows adorned with flowers and the colourful variety of old front doors give the townscape a unique character.

Freudenberg is not only a popular destination for photography enthusiasts, but also a place where tradition and modernity blend harmoniously. Numerous small cafés and shops housed in the old buildings invite you to linger. The "Alte Flecken" is not only a piece of history, but also a lively part of today's Freudenberg, which never fails to impress with its unmistakable atmosphere.

The historic city centre of Aachen is a true gem, deeply rooted in history and yet alive in the present. With its winding alleyways, magnificent façades and impressive architecture, which is characterised by Roman, Carolingian and medieval influences, the city tells stories from centuries ago. Aachen Cathedral in particular, a masterpiece of architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts visitors from all over the world. Here, where history and modernity meet, you can feel the pulse of the past, which at the same time leaves room for new ideas and experiences. The historic centre of Aachen is a place where time seems to stand still, while the lively atmosphere fills every step with inspiration and wonder.

Typical of Monschau, which lies in the rocky valley of the Rur in the Eifel, are the house-high beech hedges that the townspeople planted generations ago to protect their houses. After a tour of the town, you can take a hike through the secluded nature of the High Fens moorland area or enjoy culinary delights in the historic mustard mill.

A stroll through the historic old town is like travelling back in time - past lovingly preserved facades, small boutiques, cafés and the imposing Red House, the former home and business premises of a clothier family.

If you are still in the mood for nature afterwards, you can set off directly from the town centre on a hike to the high moor of the High Fens - a special retreat full of tranquillity, vast landscapes and rare plant species.

To round off the day, visit the historic mustard mill, where you can not only taste the famous Monschau mustard, but also enjoy small culinary discoveries on your plate - from savoury to sweet.

A trip to Gräfrath is like travelling back in time: the historic old town with its typical Bergisch black, white and green appearance features half-timbered houses, an idyllic market square and an imposing monastery church. Just a few steps away is the German Blade Museum, which tells the story of Solingen's world-famous cutlery. A must for anyone who wants to find out more about the tradition and significance. From ornately decorated swords to fine cutlery, the museum not only tells the story of craftsmanship, but also of Solingen's global significance as a city of blades.

Those who want to take a deep breath afterwards will find numerous opportunities for a relaxing walk with sweeping views of the Bergisches Land in the surrounding forests and mountain trails around the district.

The historic castle town of Blankenheim is not only the source of the River Ahr, which makes its way from here through the Eifel to the Ahr Valley - the picturesque little town itself invites you to take a leisurely stroll with its narrow alleyways, lovingly restored half-timbered houses and old town gates.

Blankenheim is also an ideal starting point for active discoveries: Hiking enthusiasts start here on the Eifelsteig trail, which leads in wide arcs through impressive nature, while cyclists can choose the Ahr cycle path, which follows the young Ahr through varied landscapes.

The almost 900-year-old Grafenburg Castle towers high above the town - an imposing structure with fortified walls and sweeping views over the valley. Today it houses a youth hostel that not only welcomes families and groups, but also offers overnight stays in a historic setting with a touch of knightly romance.

A visit to Blankenheim combines nature, history and Eifel hospitality - ideal for anyone longing for a little break with character.

Located directly on the Ruhr, the Essen district of Kettwig exudes the charm of a small holiday resort. Especially in summer, walkers, hikers and cyclists are drawn here - whether for a tour along the Ruhr or a relaxed stroll through the old town.

Between winding alleyways and lovingly preserved half-timbered houses, it is a wonderful place to take a break - ideally with an ice cream in hand and a view of the picturesque ensemble of historic facades, small shops and cafés.

Just a stone's throw away is Lake Baldeney, a popular meeting place for water sports enthusiasts, sun worshippers and day trippers. Anyone interested in industrial culture and history should also pay a visit to Villa Hügel: The former family seat of the Krupps not only impresses with its magnificent rooms and extensive park, but also with its special atmosphere of power history and Rhenish-Westphalian elegance.

In the historic centre of Bergneustadt stands the Losemund fountain, a landmark that not only impresses with its artistic design, but also with its interesting history. The fountain owes its name to two washerwomen who, in the past, were said to have a loose mouth - a nickname that spread through the village due to their lively conversation and constant chatter. These two women, who were known for their frank and often cheeky remarks, are immortalised on the fountain in the form of graceful sculptures that are both a humorous and honourable monument to them.

The detailed depiction of the two washerwomen, who emerge vividly from the fountain, gives an idea of their character traits and brings a piece of living history to everyday life in the town. There are many stories and legends surrounding the fountain, which have been passed on by the inhabitants of Bergneustadt. The fountain is often described as a symbol of the sociable, but also somewhat gossipy life of the village community, which played just as important a role in earlier times as the hard work in the household and in the fields.

Located between Aachen and Cologne, many visitors know Bedburg and its historic district of Alt-Kaster as the "castle town on the Erft". The charming town combines historic buildings with a Rhineland lifestyle and invites you to travel back in time, especially in its medieval district of Alt-Kaster.

Behind the old town walls, an ensemble of winding alleyways, lovingly restored houses and quiet courtyards unfolds, which can be discovered on a walk around Bedburg Castle. A special highlight of the year is the atmospheric St Nicholas market, which transforms Alt-Kaster into a festively illuminated village: This is when residents open up their yards and garages to offer handmade treasures, tasty treats and creative little things - all with a lot of heart and soul and a personal touch. In this special atmosphere of twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine and encounters, the warmth of the region is revealed - a real insider tip for anyone looking for an authentic experience away from the hustle and bustle during Advent.