When thinking about a town like Hünxe, graceful just seems to come to mind. Quiet, idyllic, peaceful are a few others, as well.
This isn’t a fast-paced bustling city, more like lush green meadows and tree-lined streets. A German version of a Norman Rockwell painting. This is most likely the reason that Hünxe is so popular with bike riders and motorcycle enthusiasts through the Westphalian countryside.
Once you get here you’ll understand how painter and sculptor Otto Pankok could have found inspiration here. His house, where his daughter still lives, is a piece of work in itself. Haus Esselt (Otto-Pankok-Weg 4) was originally built in 1482, but the gorgeous building you see today dates from the 17th century.
Hünxe’s Local History Museum explains more of the region and Esselt House’s history.
It’s a great way to learn more about Schloss Gartrop, too. Now a restaurant and meeting facility, the castle was originally built in 1375. When a fire ravaged the castle in the late 17th century it was rebuilt in the popular Baroque style of the time. The three acre English Garden seems to fit perfectly with the elegant manor house and surrounding ponds.
There are a few times a year that Hünxe let’s its proverbial hair down and sheds its quiet demeanor. The Rock & Bike Fest is one such time. For two day, people from all over come to “rock the house” concluding with a battle of the bands.
But, nothing will prepare you for the most famous of the festivals here. It’s another two day festival, this time hard-core “Death Metal” music. Any of you who grew up in the ’80’s should remember Metal Music, now multiply that by 20 decibels. No wonder its played out on an old airfield! ;-)
Despite a few days of rock-n-roll and Heavy Metal, Hünxe still remains mostly a serene, quiet town just perfect for bicycle ride on tree-lined streets.
