Three borders, many castles, manor houses, and palaces
The Burgen Route leads almost to the gates of Aachen. Like the Ourtal Route in the south, this circuit also runs through a tri-border area. Four large municipalities, a spectacular railway bridge, chapels, panoramic views over the picturesque tri-border region, but above all about two dozen castles, manor houses, and palaces line the route. There are also a number of other noteworthy buildings located a bit off the route. In their shadow, East Belgium, the Netherlands, and on the German side, the Aachen region come together. Monuments for the First World War or a military cemetery remind you that the neighborhood was not always peaceful. Gone! Castles have long ceased to have a defensive purpose. From sturdy residential towers equipped only with loopholes, the donjons, comfortable, bright palaces emerged as early as the 17th and 18th centuries. The current use varies. Sometimes the property is a residence, sometimes a museum or youth center. However, the cluster of formidable buildings remains a cultural asset that attracts visitors from the entire tri-border area. Many manor houses are privately owned and can only be viewed from the outside. But the enchanting view of towers, bay windows, and moats alone makes the trip worthwhile.
Every detour a surprise
The Burgen Route is full of surprising discoveries, especially a little off the main route. A small detour, a few hundred meters, sometimes just a few kilometers, and you will again see an architectural gem.
