Roaming through the history-steeped Teutoburger Woods today recalls visions of Roman times. The battle between the Roman army and the allied Germanic tribes in the 9. century has left its traces.
For example the Hermann Monument is the best-known symbol of this 100 km long mountain range and natural park in Lower Saxony's northwest. But this deciduous and conifer-treed region has many more historical sights in store for its visitors.
Teutons, Romans, Franks and Saxons, the Hanseatic merchants and the church fathers of the Middle Ages have all left their mark on its 2000-year old history. Those wishing to balance their thirst for knowledge with sporting pursuits will not be disappointed: with the multitude of well-mapped walking and cycling routes, canoeing or hang-gliding at Porta Westfalica - there is something for everyone.
Similar activities are also offered in neighboring Weserbergland, which runs from the north German plain down to the Hessen hills. Its wooded hillsides were the source of marvellous tales and legends, like the wonder doctor Eisenbart, the liar baron Münchhausen and the ratcatcher of Hameln. These tales are rekindled every year in dramatic open-air performances. The historical centers of the region's are still characterized by half-timbered and Weser Renaissance buildings.
Visitors to Münsterland should spend some time in the region's cultural center. Alongside the many historical buildings the city's 60 museums are an inviting prospect. Münster's surroundings offer a wealth of attractions, which, for example, can be viewed along the "100 Schloss" cycle route. Münsterland is also a Mecca for horseriding with numerous riding schools and equestrian centers.
