Top things to do in Raeren (Belgium)

Raeren: A Hidden Gem in Belgium

Nestled in the heart of Belgium lies the charming town of Raeren. With its picturesque landscape and rich cultural heritage, Raeren is a perfect destination for anyone seeking a break from the mundane. Whether you are a history buff, adventure seeker, or just a curious traveler, Raeren has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of tourist attractions that would make your stay in Raeren an unforgettable experience.

Raeren Castle

One of the most iconic landmarks of Raeren is its castle. The castle dates back to the 14th century and was originally built as a fortress to protect the town from invaders. Today, it houses a pottery museum that displays ancient and contemporary pottery. Visitors can explore the castle's fascinating history and enjoy the stunning views of the town from its towers. For more information, visit www.toepfereimuseum.org.

Töpfereimuseum Raeren

Adjacent to the castle is the Töpfereimuseum Raeren, a museum dedicated to the art of pottery. The museum boasts an extensive collection of pottery dating back to the medieval times. Visitors can witness the process of pottery making and even try their hands at creating their own pottery. For more information, visit www.toepfereimuseum.org.

Wesertalsperre - Staumauer

For those who love the great outdoors, a visit to the Wesertalsperre - Staumauer is a must. This impressive dam is the largest in the region and offers breathtaking views of the Weser River. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and picnicking in the surrounding areas. For more information, visit wesertalsperre-eupen.business.site.

Hiking in WRS Gut Rattenhaus

If you are looking for a challenging hike, head to WRS Gut Rattenhaus. This beautiful hiking area offers scenic trails that wind through lush forests and pastures. Hikers can also enjoy panoramic views of the town from the hilltops. For more information, visit www.gut-rattenhaus.be.

Labyrint Drielandenpunt

Located just a short drive from Raeren is the Labyrint Drielandenpunt, a family-friendly attraction that offers a unique maze experience. Visitors can navigate through the maze and climb the observation tower for a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. The park also features a water play area and team games. For more information, visit www.drielandenpunt.nl.

Nature Parc High Venn - Eifel

The Nature Parc High Venn - Eifel is a protected moorland area that is home to rare flora and fauna. The park offers numerous hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the stunning landscape. The park's boardwalks and walking trails meander through ancient patches of bog, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. For more information, visit www.botrange.be.

Naturzentrum Haus Ternell

For a deeper understanding of the flora and fauna of the region, a visit to the Naturzentrum Haus Ternell is a must. This educational center offers interactive exhibits on the natural history of the area and is perfect for visitors of all ages. The center also houses a restaurant that serves local cuisine. For more information, visit www.ternell.be.

Railbiking in Hohes Venn

For a unique experience, try railbiking in Hohes Venn. This exciting activity allows visitors to ride a special bike that runs on railway tracks through the beautiful countryside. The route includes stunning views of the region's forests, fields, and lakes. For more information, visit www.railbike.be.

Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo

The Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo is a zoo that houses exotic birds and mammals. Visitors can enjoy seeing a wide variety of animals, including zebras, camels, and ostriches. The park also features petting zoos, pony rides, and playgrounds. For more information, visit www.euregiozoo.de.

Other Notable Attractions

  • Möhrenmuseum: A museum dedicated to the humble carrot. Visitors can learn about the history and cultural significance of this ubiquitous vegetable. For more information, visit www.atlasobscura.com/places/museum-of-carrots.
  • Grenzweg Hubertusweg: A hiking trail that follows the border between Belgium and Germany. Visitors can walk along the trail and enjoy stunning views of the countryside.
  • Mariensäule: A historic monument that dates back to the 18th century. The monument is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. For more information, visit eupenlives.be/de/160-mariensaeule.
  • Trou Malbrouck: A natural wonder that features a rocky ravine and a series of waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy hiking and exploring the area's unique geology.
  • Panzersperren bei Lammersdorf: A historic site that features World War II tank traps. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its significance during the war.

Getting Around

Raeren is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot. Visitors can also rent bikes locally to explore the surrounding countryside. For longer distances, public transportation is available.

Where to Stay

Raeren offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget. Visitors can choose from hotels, vacation rentals, and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Europa: Located in the town center, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. For more information, visit www.hotel-europa-raeren.be.
  • Bed and Breakfast Haus Stehlings: A charming B&B that offers cozy rooms and a home-like atmosphere. For more information, visit www.haus-stehlings.de.
  • FeWo Raeren: A vacation rental that offers spacious, fully-equipped apartments. For more information, visit www.fewo-raeren.de.

Conclusion

Raeren is a destination that offers something for everyone. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and friendly locals, it is a perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We hope that this travel guide has provided you with a comprehensive list of attractions that will help you make the most of your stay in Raeren. Happy travels!