Gangelt lies in the western most region of Germany on the border with the Netherlands with Celtic origins and was once considered “King’s Property.” Say what? That just means that some old crusty king was the only one with rights to what happened to the area.
Add in that the town’s made up of seventeen local hamlets (some with less than 50 residents) and you’ve got yourself an area that’s interesting to say the least.
When you come to Gangelt, you’ll want to see the Museumsmühle Breberen, a windmill that still works after a 150 years. You’ll also want to hop a ride on the Selfkantbahn; old railway cars that trek on for about 38 km and acts like a railway museum.
Visitors often go see the Village & Fire Brigade Museum with exhibits on Gangelt’s history; including World War II memorabilia.
Another look at Gangelt’s history is to visit the medieval side of the town. There are the old City Gates, as well as parts of the original defense walls called a Stadtmauer. Gangelt boasts a stunning example of medieval architecture with its town church and a castle “donjon.” There’s also a very early Middle Ages framework castle hill to visit.
After all that sightseeing you’ve probably worked up an appetite. One such specialty is some sort of farmer’s cheese produced locally in one of the town’s factories. Another is some sort of sweet cake, making a perfect dessert (or snack).
During Gangelt’s many festivals and markets you can eat a lot more of Westphalian delicacies, including the Nikolaus Market on the 1st Advent (think four weeks before Christmas), Beach Night, and even the Town Celebration.
Gangelt even offers some sporting activities to keep everyone busy, like miniature golf and swimming in the town’s outdoor pool.
The town of Gangelt might have once been under some German king’s domain, but now it’s a town that anyone and everyone can enjoy.
