The Town of the Traditional Easter Wheels
Nestled between the Teutoburg Forest and the Weser Uplands, Lügde is distinguished by its diverse landscapes and more than 1,000 years of cultural history.
The town is best known for its unique Easter Wheel Run, an ancient tradition that takes place every Easter Sunday and attracts thousands of visitors to Lügde's beautiful historic old town. At dusk, six large oak wheels stuffed with straw are set alight and released from the summit of Easter Hill, rolling freely down into the valley below. According to local tradition, a good harvest is expected if all the blazing wheels roll straight down the hillside. The spectacular event concludes with an impressive fireworks display.
Lügde for Fairy Tale Enthusiasts
Since 2012, Lügde has officially carried the title "Town of the Easter Wheels." The centuries-old Easter Wheel Run is deeply woven into the identity of this charming town on the banks of the River Emmer.
Although it is not known whether the Brothers Grimm ever witnessed the Easter Wheel Run themselves, the region certainly inspired them. They included the legends The Spring Root (Die Springwurzel) and The Köterberg in their collection German Legends. Visitors to the Köterberg can still experience the magical atmosphere of this legendary landscape and discover the stories for themselves.
Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the Lügde Myths Trail, which leads past mythical sites and places of historical significance. According to local legend, a White Maiden still wanders the forests in search of her lost beloved. Along the five-kilometre circular trail, visitors encounter fascinating legendary locations and informative interpretation panels.
Cyclists will also find excellent opportunities to explore the region. A particular highlight is the Emmer Cycle Route, a scenic 50-kilometre trail following the River Emmer. Along the way, breathtaking landscapes, cultural attractions, and historic buildings unfold like pearls on a string.
Lügde for Holidaymakers and Day Visitors
Lügde is renowned for its beautifully restored historic centre, with charming half-timbered houses, colourful façades, medieval town walls, and two surviving defensive towers.
Another architectural highlight is the Romanesque St Kilian's Church, dating from the 12th century and regarded as one of Germany's oldest churches.
Just outside the old town, the Emmer Floodplain Park offers a sandy riverside beach, an adventure playground, and plenty of space for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
The best way to discover Lügde and its surrounding villages is by bicycle or on foot. More than 120 kilometres of well-marked walking and cycling trails lead through beautiful countryside, passing attractions such as the Stork Conservation Centre, the thousand-year-old lime tree, and the former monastery complex at Falkenhagen.
No visit to Lügde would be complete without a trip to the Köterberg. Rising to 497 metres, it is the highest point in the Lippe Uplands and rewards visitors with magnificent panoramic views across both the Teutoburg Forest and the Weser Uplands.
