The "Hof zur Linde"

Known for centuries

Historical ambience and modern comforts, the best of westphalian tradition alongside creative culinary delights await the guest at the Romantic Hotel Hof zur Linde near Münster.

 

Whoever enters the oasis of warmth and pleasant hospitality leaves the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind. This private family-run hotel conveys an atmosphere of cordiality and warmth.
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The crackling open fire, centuries-old oak beams and decorative antique furniture are available for the comfortable refuge in a rustic and noble cottage house style.

 

The history

Around 900:

The plot is referred to as "Linde" in the church books.

1430:

Here exists the largest farm in Handorf.

1648:

The foundation for today's estate was laid when the peace rider proclaimed the end of the Thirty Years' War of Münster.

1950:

It comes with ten hectares into the possession of the family Albert Löfken.

1965:

The first heater and a new kitchen are installed.

1972:

In the "Spieker" eight guest rooms are created. In the same year the "Hof zur Linde" is included as the 13th Member of the romantic hotel cooperation. There are now about 200 romantic hotels in Europe.

1977:

Reconstruction of the ballroom into three lounges (Westphalia, Von Renesse, Bischoppinck-Stube) with 100 seats. In addition twelve new hotel rooms in the main building.

1982:

The “Wein- und Pilsstube” (Lindentenne) is created from the former stable with fireplace and aperitif garden..

1992:

Construction of the "cottage" on the banks of the werse. Two summer houses are rebuilt  as comfortable holiday apartments.

2003:

The Federal President Johannes Rau stays overnight in the “Hof zur Linde”.

 

Die Familie

Actually, Albert Löfken was a farmer. An enthusiastic hunter and skat player. He came from the feudal estate "Haus Füchteln" in Olfen and bought the farm "Zur Linde" in Handorf after the war. At the weekly market in Münster Albert sold potatoes. Mary, his wife, stand with mum Krückeberg in the kitchen, baked beautiful fruit cake and smoked ham. Brother Henry fed the pigs and chopped wood for the fireplace. It spread quickly that at the "Hof zur Linde" also guests were welcomed. And so the Münsteraner pilgrimaged on weekend to Handorf, returned at "Mutter Löfken" which had a very big heart for financially weak students. Then they sat on white and red cushions at oak tables, enjoying coffee, grog and the hearty “Löfken-Schnitten” which are breads with ham, Plockwurst (smoked sausage made of beef, pork and fat), liver sausage, potato salad and fried egg. Next door there was dancing on the occasion of the anniversary of the Knappenverein from the Ruhr and at weddings and shooting matches. Which guests were welcomed at the "Hof zur Linde"  was determined by Albert Löfken. While sitting at his regular table, opposite the entrance, he greeted the guests. If he was in a particularly good mood he asked: "Do you play cards?" Was the answer: "Not so good" he winked and smiled: "These are our favorite guests."