Westphalian Dream Parks on the LandesGartenSchau Route

Westphalia also has a number of state garden shows that my Collection revolves around. Although some of the exhibitions took place decades ago, the parks created at that time still exist today and offer you magnificent gardens, beautiful bodies of water and plenty of walking paths in the midst of beautiful nature. They’re all in a fairly small area too: it’s just 200 kilometres (124 mi) by bike from the starting point in Paderborn to the destination in Lünen taking in seven former state garden shows. This makes my suggested route around 13 kilometres (8 mi) longer than the original State Garden Show route, because it includes a detour to Beckum for one of the four overnight stays.

You might be surprised that I've made five daily stages out of quite a short distance. However, on each day you'll visit at least one former state horticultural show and I bet you don't just want to ride on by. With this itinerary, you'll have plenty of time to visit the beautiful parks at your leisure. The Tour is also possible in fewer stages of course, particularly as it’s relatively flat, but then you’ll miss out on some fantastic sights.

The route starts in Paderborn at the main station, allowing you to easily arrive by train. Since the finish is at the station in Lünen, you can give your car a break; but if you prefer to travel by car, you can change trains and return from Lünen to Paderborn. As mentioned, seven state garden shows await you on the way – the Tour descriptions provide more information. You'll find accommodation at all of the stage destinations but it's best to book in advance to avoid finding them full. So, have fun in the beautiful gardens!