As a lover of long journeys I never realized how beautiful my hometown is. So it was high time to share my tips for Valkenburg aan de Geul with you. There is so much to see and so much to do! From visiting one of the oldest caves from South Limburg to a relaxing massage at Thermae 2OOO and from climbing the Castle ruins to Yoga at Essential Movements† 1 day Valkenburg is really not enough. Therefore plan an overnight stay in the brand new Black Label Hotel Valkenburg.
Also read: Outdoor tips and walking routes in South Limburg
Experience the Castle Ruins
A visit to Valkenburg aan de Geul is not complete without seeing the castle ruins and the caves that this town has. The Castle Ruin is located right in the center of Valkenburg and offers a beautiful view over the city. The history of this ruin goes back to the 11th century† Walk through the knight's hall, the armory and the chapel of the only high castle in the Netherlands. You can conclude your visit to the castle ruins at the restaurant De Haselderhof which is at the top. The most beautiful restaurant in Valkenburg if you ask me! You will not find such a view anywhere.
Tour of the Velvet Cave
The Velvet Cave in Valkenburg aan de Geul is one of the oldest underground tunnel systems in South Limburg, created by marl mining. One of our must-do tips for Valkenburg aan de Geul. During the tour, listen to the stories of the block breakers and see the shelters, paintings and sculptures with your own eyes. Are you looking for a little more adventure? Then you can even mountain biking through the caves of Valkenburg. This is included in an arrangement with, for example, a return trip in the Valkenburg Cable Car, 4 rides tobogganing and 1,5 hours of 'cave biking'.
Tip:: in the months of November and December there is a Christmas market in the Velvet Cave.
Visit Château St. Gerlach
Château St. Gerlach is located in the neighboring village of Houthem. It is originally in the 12th century built as a monastery, but was converted into a castle-like country house in the 19th century. Now it's a 4-star accommodation with a Michelin star worthy restaurant. And that in a beautiful environment with sculpture garden.
Go for a walk at East Castle
East Castle, located on the Oosterweg in Valkenburg aan de Geul, dates from the 17th century† The Castle is surrounded by a beautiful, large garden and in the vicinity of Kasteel Oost you will also find a lot of greenery. Perfect for taking pictures or just having a delicious walk to make in nature. In the park of Kasteel Oost you will also find a small 'farm' with a number of cuddly animals such as sheep, goats, ponies, chickens, rabbits and guinea pigs. Finally, there is also a playground with a restaurant ('t Koetshoes). A perfect getaway!
Tip:: looking for more walking routes in South Limburg? Read this blog† There is also a nice walking route through Valkenburg.
Stroll through the center
A walk through the historic center is certainly not lacking in our tips for Valkenburg aan de Geul. You will immediately discover that many buildings are made of marl, these yellow stones come from the caves that the city is rich. Some eye-catchers in the center are the (rebuilt) trench gate van Valkenburg (not to be missed if you walk towards the many terraces), the old water mill, Castle den Halder, water well in addition to the Old church. Then railway station, Bolt gate and with Berkel gate† The 3 gates in the center of Valkenburg show the fortified character of the city well. In addition to sightseeing, the center has many nice terraces, restaurants and 2 supermarkets. There are also a number of shops in the center. But if you really want to shop, it is better to move to one of the surrounding cities such as Maastricht, Heerlen or Aachen.
Tip: another nice fortified town to discover is Elburg. Read the blog with Things to Do in Elburg at Yvonnereistverder.nl
Spend the night at Black Label Hotel Valkenburg
Do you want to stay close to these sights (and the center), but are you still looking for peace and quiet? Then is Black Label Hotel Valkenburg the perfect accommodation. This design hotel is a 5-minute walk from the center, but surrounded by nature and the Geul. The rooms are super stylishly decorated and nothing is missing. Because what more could you want than your own coffee machine and a rain shower? You can rent bicycles or scooters here, book packages and enjoy the delicious breakfast buffet and the extensive menu of Restaurant RUW.
Relaxing at Essential Movements
Of a Wim Hof method, (children's) yoga classes, meditations, Massages en or mindfulness to coaching & training and much more. Bee Essential Movements you can go for a relaxing, renewed and groundbreaking experience for your body and mind† Because if you want to take good care of yourself, it makes sense to do this in different ways. When you step inside Essential Movements you feel the nice atmosphere, during your visit you feel the warmth and after your visit you feel reborn† Owner Brenda Tjoelker and her colleagues take care of this and bring out the best in you.
Tip:: a visit to Essential Movements and an overnight stay at Black Label Hotel Valkenburg You can combine them by booking the 'Kick Start Your Day' package on the Black Label Hotels website.
The surroundings of Valkenburg aan de Geul
Valkenburg aan de Geul is also a perfect base if you want to visit surrounding cities such as Maastricht, Aachen, Liège or Heerlen. There are also numerous nice walking routes in South Limburg. Whether you want to enjoy an hour or two in the fresh air, or are an advanced walker who can fill a whole day with walking, you can relax wonderfully here in your own way. We went looking on the internet for some nice walking routes that we could walk. Read the report with all tips and nice walking routes in South Limburg here.
