A jewel on the Lower Rhine is the town of Grefrath. Not only famous for what it has to offer in the warmer months, but in the colder ones as well.
Having been around since the 12th century, Grefrath has had plenty of time to get things right for all its residents and visitors.
A stop over at the local history museum, housed in the cellar of the Oedt District’s town hall, explains a lot about the region of Grefrath, located only a stone’s throw from Venlo, Netherlands.
After strolling through the local history museum, go explore the Lower Rhine Open Air Museum (called Niederrheinisches Freilichtmuseum). It’s filled with local crafts, houses the toy museum, and the Dorenburg. The Dorenburg is a 14th century manor house, that was once an old water castle. The Dorenburg is also near Farm Speneshuf, a museum filled with historical old pottery and stoneware.
Another site to visit are the ruins of the 14th century Castle Uda. It stood until the French somehow blew it up in the year 1757.
For some other historical buildings to visit, try the Parish Church Laurentis (with its Roman Tower) and the two local monasteries (Mariendonk & Liebe Frau).
What’s great about Grefrath, in addition to all its history, is all the many outstanding outdoor activities going on. There are the town’s weekly markets — Grefrath holds theirs on Thursdays and Oedt his on Tuesdays and Fridays. Then there is the town’s Culture Monday program such as concerts, readings, jazz music, and more.
As far as sport is concerned, many go canoeing on the lake and explore plenty of biking and hiking trails around town or within the Maas-Schwalm-Nette nature park. Plus there are opportunities for swimming, tennis, and horseback riding, to only mention a few of some other sports in the area.
The main attraction, though, is the outdoor ice skating rink. Built in 1970, it’s been the main focus for enjoying the outdoors, the “Holiday On Ice” program, and even concerts.
