Rietberg between half-timbered houses, a chapel and nature
Accommodation in Rietberg
Rietberg combines a historic town center, gardens, art and trails by Mastholter See. When planning a stay, you can focus on the town’s history and half-timbered houses, walks through a variety of natural landscapes, or activities on the water.
Historic Town Center and St. John’s Chapel
Rietberg’s Historic Town Center reflects the town’s past as the seat of a county and the regional capital. Its character is shaped by lovingly restored half-timbered buildings. The bright white St. John’s Chapel stands out: it is considered Rietberg’s most significant historic building. Countess Maria Ernestine Franziska von Kaunitz-Rietberg commissioned its construction; in 1748, the chapel was consecrated in honor of Saint John of Nepomuk. The half-timbered houses and the chapel’s architectural history thus represent different aspects of historic Rietberg.
Walking Routes and Water at Mastholter See
The “Grafenschritte” town walking route follows in the footsteps of the counts along the Ems, through the protected Historic Town Center and past a variety of natural landscapes. It is about six kilometers long. Along the way are the Rietberger Fischteiche nature reserve, the Gartenschaupark, the monastery garden and the ramparts around the historic town center. The route therefore connects historic sites with a variety of landscapes.
Access to the Rietberger Fischteiche nature reserve is restricted: it is privately owned and not open to the public. A viewing platform on the walking trail along the Ems offers a glimpse from the edge of the area.
Surfing, sailing and water skiing are among the leisure activities at the Mastholter See recreation area. Check the current arrangements with the operators before visiting to take part in these activities. There is also a 2.7-kilometer circular walking trail at the lake, suitable for walks, cycling, jogging and Nordic walking. At about six kilometers, the Grafenschritte route is longer; comparing the two distances can help you estimate how far you would like to go.
Gardens, Art and Guided Tours
Bronze sculptures by Wilfried Koch stand in the former monastery garden. The garden is a public park, and the sculptures are accessible to everyone. The Drostengarten offers a different design: laid out geometrically in 2008, it features flower beds, hedges, paths and sightlines. It was inspired by accounts of Rietberg’s aristocratic gardens from the 18th century.
The Wilfried Koch Museum houses the paintings and drawings of local artist Dr. Wilfried Koch. The museum is temporarily closed. This is important to bear in mind when planning a visit; the public monastery garden and the museum are distinct attractions connected with the artist’s work.
Guided tours of the Historic Town Center and the Gartenschaupark Rietberg can be booked for groups almost any time. Arrange your specific date with the local tourist information office. The culinary experience tours are offered on various dates throughout the year. They combine entertainment, anecdotes and fascinating facts with a treat for the taste buds. Since specific dates and bookings may vary, check in advance which option fits your travel plans.
Discover more destinations: Rheda-WiedenbrĂĽck, Verl, Harsewinkel, Herzebrock-Clarholz, GĂĽtersloh, SchloĂź Holte-Stukenbrock, Steinhagen, Werther.
Go to the main travel overview: GĂĽtersloh.
