Bergkamen is in an area of low hills and heavy forests to the northeast of Dortmund. It has the pretty river Lippe to the north for those seeking to relax and the medieval town of Soest to the east — the gateway to the Sauerland — for the adventurous!
The town has ancient origins, and some of the Roman structures can still be found. The Roman camp here is the largest site north of the Alps, and is in an expanse of scenic forest.
Surrounded by these extensive forest trails, you will find the Earth Wall near Bummannsburg — a massive structure to behold built over 2,000 years ago. Therefore it only follows that the municipal museum houses a very large Roman department — and ties this in with the Römerlager; a nearby archeological site.
The Großes Holz (the wooded hill) is a busy area in Bergkamen. It is a re-naturalized slag heap would you believe, where vegetation has been encouraged and has prospered. The area is very popular with locals, who find it a great place to relax and unwind. It has lovely views over town.
You could also investigate the Ecology Station if you want to stay outside. This manor house in its idyllic gardens is ideal to entertain the family, with a farm garden, wild bee walks and various ponds. It also houses generous exhibitions through the year in this perfect outdoor setting.
And can you believe it… Bergkamen even has its own art gallery — the Sohle 1 — displaying various exhibits through the seasons, but also holds regular exhibitions and theater.
It’s Cultural Center and well-known historic monument are one and the same — Pit 3. This mining shaft (now closed) is a relic of the towns busy industrial past, but the solid brick structure is certainly worth a visit.
As with most towns and cities in this region of Germany — festivals abound. In summer they hold the Hafenfest (harbor festival) near the watersports centers and the marina. There is also the fantastic Lichtermarkt at Halloween — the light festival, which really is a date to put in the diary!
And don’t forget the indoor ice rink which is open all year, but great at Christmas time…
