The region between Aachen, Cologne and Bonn is characterized by an exceptionally high number of former aristocratic residences and is one of the regions with the most moated castles in Europe. In the StädteRegion area, the various moated castles and palaces reflect the varied history of this region, which was characterized by many wars and conflicts in the times of the dukes and knights. Many of the castles, such as Frankenberg Castle, Stolberg Castle, Rahe Castle and Schönau Castle, are in excellent condition. The ruins of Wilhelmstein Castle, also located along the route, are enthroned high above the Wurmtal valley. Built as a medieval border castle, the site is now the main attraction in the Wurmtal recreational area. In the summer months, cultural events from classical music to rock, from theater to cabaret to open-air cinema take place in the shadow of the castle, which are known and loved far beyond the borders of Würselen and the Aachen region. There is also a restaurant with an 18-hole mini-golf course.

However, to reduce the route to its castles alone would be too short-sighted. The historic town centers of Aachen with its cathedral and historic town hall, Kornelimünster with its imperial abbey, Alt-Breinig with its quarry stone houses and Stolberg with its former copper yards are always worth a visit.The natural river valleys of the Inde and Wurm also promise pure natural idyll and make the tour an absolute scenic experience.

Castles along the route

• Frankenberg Castle
• Stolberg Castle
• Wilhelmstein Castle
• Rahe Castle
• Schönau Castle

Other highlights along the route

• Historic old town of Aachen with cathedral and historic town hall
• Historic town center of Kornelimünster with abbey
• Historic old town of Stolberg with copper courtyards
• Idyllic Wurmtal valley