Talk about having famous neighbors. Uedem (never heard of it, right?) is a German town bordering Xanten. Oh, and being only a few minutes from the Dutch border, as well.
And just because Uedem isn’t as well-known as her surrounding town doesn’t mean it’s not as lovely and charming as the other(s).
I like it and I think you will, too.
What I like best about Uedem are all the walking and cycling trails through the countryside. Some of the trails are small scenic routes, like the Manor Route. It’s a bicycle route along the Dutch/German border highlighting some of the prettiest castles and manor houses. It’s a doozy of a trail, some 500km, but it’s set up with 16 smaller day-friendly sections.
What’s the point of a castle route without a castle? The Alte Schlüterei was part of a 14th century castle that was used as an office for serfs that needed to pay their “duty” (read — money) to the dukes of the manor. The office was moved out of the castle in the 15th century, but a fire required a need to move it back.
All the better for the dukes to keep their money closer, wouldn’t you say.
Then you’ve got the Lower Rhine Route. You don’t have to do all 2000km of it (you’re staying in Uedem, right?); so you can do as little or as much of it as you wish without feeling guilty.
Other bicycle and hiking routes that bring you through Uedem is the District of Kleve (a cycling route) and the Treasures of the Lower Rhine (both a walking & bike route), and the Kalkar-Xanten-Hamminkeln Route.
If you’re interested maps of these routes are available at the Rathaus (Town Hall) at Mosterstraße 2.
To stay more local, yet see the countryside, I’d suggest a tractor ride. It’s a relaxing and fun way to do it. From May to October Uedem hosts a charming Garden Tour on the Lötzenhof, which is also a nice way to “do” Uedem.
Uedem’s got other sightseeing that doesn’t involve motoring around. You just need to remember to see the Hohe Mühle (High Mill, built 13th century) you can only do it on the weekends from 2:30pm-5pm. The view from the top is extraordinary.
You might have noticed quite a few bronze statues (like the Sailor Fountain) at the Marktplatz. If you like them, there’s plenty more on display at the Stiefenhof.
All that’s left is Uedem’s festivals. March kicks it off with the Niederrheinischer Fahrradtag (Lower Rhine Cycling Day), the Courage Festival in July, an annual Flea Market in August, the Kirmes Church Festival in October, as well as the Antique Market — also in October.
Didn’t I tell you you’ll like Uedem? It should be as famous as its neighbors, right? OK, let’s spread the word. :-)