OK, so what if the town of Beelen isn’t drenched in history, or can brag about some naughty royal that used to live here. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t want to come if you’re in this neck of the woods now, should it?
Where in the woods is it? Oh, right between Münster and Gütersloh in the Münsterland.
Sounds pretty, right? It is, and along the Kerkherrenweg (a trail) you’ll see how lovely it really is. It’s also a nice way to see some of Beelen’s Parish Churches. Oh, it isn’t too long of a distance, some 22 kilometers that run in a circular route — which you start and end at the Clarholz Abbey.
You’re more than free to do the Kerkherrenweg all on your own, but things like Beelen’s Photo Safari is done with a guide. They’ll take you out all over the countryside teaching you how to get the best pictures around.
Beelen’s other guided tours include ones to many of the area’s mansions; and one known as the Westphalia BBQ, where you grill at a local farmhouse & let the kids round around for some fun.
Other fun events in Beelen include the 2-day Schützenfest. held on the second weekend of July every year; and the Kirmes takes place on the weekend after Midsummer. St. John the Baptist is the Kirmes‘ Patron Saint, so everything is dedicated to him. But, you’re more than welcome to ride the carousel, shop the Flea Market, or munch at the snacks and confection stands.
Not able to make it? Don’t fret, you’ve still got a shot for showing up at Beelen’s Christmas Market (held on the Kirchplatz on the 3rd Advent), or to enjoy one of the outdoor theater performances every August.
In between all the festivals, make sure you’ve saved some time to see the half-timbered houses that really give Beelen extra charm and grace.
You know what? Beelen doesn’t need to be soaked in history, or have a randy royal — it’s fine just the way it is. :-)
