From Roman Catholic house of prayer to unique place to stay The Kerk op ’t Kip was built in 1872 as a Roman Catholic church and was dedicated to the Holy Martyrs of Gorcum. For over 150 years, the building served as a place for worship, comfort, gathering, and silence. It is the oldest church within the former Paulus parish. Today, the church has been repurposed into a place to stay where the past remains tangible. The serene atmosphere, original works of art, and view of the altar turn a stay here into a true experience. The church is a listed municipal monument and a tangible reminder of the village’s religious history. Hemels Overnachten was born from a desire to preserve this special heritage and make it accessible to guests seeking peace, inspiration, or simply a unique place to stay.

Sleeping in a church? You can. In the rural village of Rekken, on the border between the Achterhoek region and Germany, stands the historic ‘Kerk op ’t Kip’. This former Roman Catholic church has been carefully repurposed into a unique place to stay, where silence, character, and atmosphere come together. You will stay in a listed municipal monument full of history. Original stained-glass windows, neo-Gothic features, and a serene ambience make this location a truly special experience. Hemels Overnachten is not your standard overnight stay, but a moment of peace, wonder, and spaciousness. Unwind in our charming bed & breakfast. The view of the past with the comfort of today. In other words: Hemels Overnachten – a heavenly stay at a unique location along the pilgrimage route from Münster to Utrecht.

Discover the rural tranquillity, nature and culture around Rekken Rekken is located in the eastern part of the Achterhoek, right on the German border. The village is surrounded by nature, meadows, historic farms, and small country roads. From Kerk op ’t Kip, you can step straight onto the Achterhoek walking network. Cyclists will also feel right at home here – the regional cycling network is just around the corner. What is there to do? - Walk the Rekkensche Markepad, Klompenpad, Lankheet route or Groot Heurne route - Cycle through the scenic bocage landscape towards Eibergen, Haaksbergen or Germany - Go canoeing on the Berkel, with canoe rental available at Ten Brinke - Visit the Piepermolen, a windmill dating from 1796 - Take a boat trip on the Berkelzomp “Snippe” in Eibergen - Discover the Kruidenhof in Mallum, a botanical garden full of scents and colours - Spot flamingos at the Zwillbrocker Venn, just across the border Food, drinks and groceries: Café Rotering in Rekken - Café Kerkemeijer (currently open in a limited capacity due to renovation) - Kerkemeijer's small shop: open Saturdays from 13:00 to 16:30, offering regional products and forgotten essentials