If Dinklage’s hotels are any indication of what you’d experience here, then you’re in for a real treat. Really, it’s not just its fabulous hotels; it’s the tiny lanes that amble on and the too numerous to mention outdoor activities in the Lower Saxon sunshine.
No town as old as Dinklage is not without anything historical to see. Starting at the Rathaus (City Hall) is the best bet. Not only because it’s one of Dinklage’s prettiest buildings, but tourists are able to find ample information (maps, etc.) on sightseeing.
When sightseeing, there are a few places that under no circumstances should be missed. First, the castle. What? Did you think that it wouldn’t have one? The original was built over a thousand years ago in the 10th century. It only lasted a few hundred years before invaders got the better of it. It was eventually rebuilt, it’s still beautiful, just not as foreboding and ominous as many others throughout the country. The castle chapel is one of the castle’s highlights.
Another impressive place to visit is the Dinklage Monastery where the Benedictine monks called home. There’s a little monastery cafe to sit with nice cup of tea after a long day’s sightseeing. Dinklage’s Local History Museum does a fine job in detailing more of the monastery and region’s history.
With all that out of the way, it’s time for serious shopping, eating, and playing. Summer Kirmes (1st Sunday in July) is a huge party with plenty of food and activities for all ages. The Dinklager Folk Festival is 3 weeks later with more eating, drinking, and all-around amusement. The town’s Weekly Market is held from 2pm-6pm every Thursday with fresh produce and local vendors hocking their wares.
You’d be lucky to have enough energy left to bike ride through the countryside. Not to mention, the chance to play a game of golf or tennis, go horseback riding, ride a hot-air balloon, or get in on a game of beach volleyball.
Many of these activities are available at the fantastic local Vila Vita Castle Hotel, which was built out of an original half-timbered building. So, it is history of Dinklage in itself. The hotel has a great spa for massages after a few days of trying to “do” Dinklage.
Ahhhh, that feels good! :-)
