Discover Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock

Springs, moorland, a large forest and a traditional October weekend reveal the different sides of Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock. Experiences include circular hikes, wildlife watching, Safariland Stukenbrock and the history of Holte Hunting Lodge. When looking for accommodation, it can help to first consider which of these themes you want to shape your trip.

Holter Wald, Furlbachtal and the Ems springs

Holter Wald is a contiguous woodland of about 670 hectares, crossed by Senne streams as well as the Öl- and Landerbach streams. As a stepping-stone biotope in the otherwise sparsely wooded Westphalian Bight, it is also designated as a Special Area of Conservation. The forest has hiking, cycling and horse-riding trails. The Holter Wald Trail makes a short loop through the northern part of the forest and takes about 1.5 hours. Holter Wald is also home to an oak estimated to be around 1,000 years old and described as an exceptional natural monument.

In Furlbachtal, trails pass through a species-rich moorland landscape. Birds seen there include the black woodpecker, great spotted woodpecker, white-throated dipper, kingfisher, stock dove, Eurasian woodcock and grey wagtail. Rare dragonfly species, such as the common hawker and northern white-faced darter, live in the moors; the moorland areas are home to cottongrass, sundew, bog rosemary and bog cranberry. The “Romantic Furlbachtal” circular trail is marked with a blue kingfisher. Those wishing to extend the loop can take the Furlbach Trail, marked with a coloured kingfisher.

The uppermost source of the Ems is in the Stukenbrock-Senne district of Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock. As a seepage spring, it flows year-round. The 5 km Ems Experience Trail circular route also runs by the Ems springs in the Moosheide nature reserve. At the spring, a viewing walkway can be reached via wooden steps, and there is an accessible walkway above the spring that is also easy to reach by bicycle, pushchair or wheelchair. The spring area, circular trail and viewing walkways therefore offer different ways to experience this natural landscape.

History and a date with specific requirements

Holte Hunting Lodge was built between 1608 and 1616 in the Renaissance style by Count Johann III and Countess Sabina Katharina of Rietberg. It was built on the remains of “Haus Holte”, which had burned down in the 14th century. The building’s history thus connects the period of the lodge with a significantly older predecessor.

A guided tour of the Stalag 326 (VI K) Senne memorial takes about two hours. It begins in the permanent exhibition in the former detention building and ends at the cemetery of honour for Soviet war dead. Tours take place on Thursdays from 2 to 4 pm, except on public holidays. Registration is required at least 48 hours in advance. The meeting point is at the police school’s gate at 1:45 pm; a valid identity card is required. Check visitor information before your trip so you can plan for registration, the tour time and your ID.

Pollhans and Safariland

Every year on the third weekend in October, Pollhans brings together market stalls, party tents, a trade fair and a farmers’ market. More than 350 fairground operators set up their attractions in Pollhans Square. This recurring date provides a clear event highlight to factor into your travel plans.

Safariland Stukenbrock combines a wildlife zoo with 600 exotic animals, an amusement park with 30 attractions and live shows, and the indoor play park “Kattas Welt”. The different areas offer groups a range of ways to spend their day. As it is advisable to check the offerings before your trip, take a look at the latest visitor information.

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For the main travel overview: Gütersloh.