Hagen am Teutoburger Wald, or Hagen a.T.W for short, is a wonderful little town (est. 1097) that’s worth getting to know. Completely surrounded by the Teutoburg Forest, you’ll find the most magnificent landscape to explore, as well as some charming festivals, and old historical buildings.
The town’s landmark building is the Parish Church Martinus (built over an older church), now the place for many concerts or other artistic pursuits.
Sadly, a fire destroyed the center of town in 1723 and many of the half timbered buildings come from later in the 18th century, though a few do remain from the 17th century.
One thing Hagen a.T.W. is known for is its cherries and the town’s cherry festival; there’s even a crowned Cherry Queen.
That’s not the only festival around town, every two years Hagen hosts an International Music Festival. Every other year seems to be the theme here, since the Outdoor City Festival, with several thousand partiers, is celebrated every two years.
Another bi-annual event is the Hagen Riding Tournament, great if you love the ponies. But, the Kirmes Folk Festival, with a cattle market, is held annually on the Monday after September 29th.
Since Hagen’s surrounded by forest, there are many great outdoor activities that everyone can enjoy (in this case, swimming in the indoor and outdoor pool optional) but there’s tennis and basketball, too. Though, horseback riding through the forest can be extra special.
There’s also over 35 miles of hiking trails through town and 100 km of trail on the “figure 8” Maple Way route that runs right through the town of Bad Iburg. And, don’t let a little snow in winter stop you from enjoying Hagen, it only adds to the town’s natural beauty, just minus the cherries. ;-)
