Limburg Province
Prices quoted correct as of July 2026
Many people think of The Netherlands as being a flat country with few hills and, by and large, that is true but there are always exceptions to prove the rule and Limburg is a prime example.
Limburg is the southernmost province of the Netherlands, bordered by Germany and Belgium. It is famous for rolling hills, the Vaalserberg (the highest point in the country), and a distinct multicultural culture, it offers a unique contrast to the famously flat Dutch landscape.
The town of Vaals is a tripoint, where the borders of The Netherlands, Germany and Belgium meet.
Where The Netherlands is predominantly a Protestant nation, LImburg is very much a Catholic area. The locals speak both Dutch and a distinct regional language called Limburgish, which has strong German and French influences
Maastricht
Maastricht, a name forever linked to an infamous EU treaty, can be forgiven that link and is the capital of the province.
The city has a distinct cosmopolitan feel along with beautiful, cobbled squares and the River Maas (also known as the Rive Meuse)
Due to it's location it has been important since Roman times and European powers have fought over the city for centuries. The city is home to a major University which results in a vibrant nightlife.
Vrijthof Square is the beating heart of the city, lined by numerous cafes and restaurants and overlooked by two churches Sint-Servaas and Sint-Jan. Each July the square transforms into a massive open air concert arena, where Maastrichts most famous son, Andre Rieu, hosts a series of open air concerts. The concerts sell out almost a year in advance, but they are absolutely brilliant. Even an Old Moaner like me comes away with a massive smile on my face. Be warned though, it will be a late night. Look at your watch as you think he is starting his final number and it will be around 10 pm, by the time the encores finis it will be approaching midnight.
Enjoy a river cruise and I can highly recommend a Sunday lunchtime pancake cruise, offering unlimited pancakes with either (or both) sweet and savoury toppings. It runs select Sundays. The 2-hour trip costs €30.00 for adults and €20.30 for children (ages 4–12). The price includes a scenic sail along the Maas River and an all-you-can-eat pancake buffet.Nearby are the Caves of Maastricht (Grotten Noord/Zonneberg), where guided tours are available. It was here many of the priceless works of art from the Amsterdam galleries were hidden during the Second World War. The tour takes just over an hour and costs from €9.95 (18+), from €8.25 (12-17 years), from €7.25 (4-11 years) with children under 4 years free
The city has a number of Michelin starred restaurants and due to its location, the food is a fusion of Dutch, German and French influences. As well as the cluster of restaurants around Vrijhof there is a large restaurant area along the river.
The Helpoort is the oldest surviving city gate in The Netherlands.
Valkenburg
Or to give it its full name Valkenburg aan der Geul, is a delightful town, just 15 minutes from Maastricht by train.Famed for its rolling hills, medieval castle ruins, and extensive underground marlstone caves.
The Castle is the oldest castle ruins in the Netherlands, perched atop a hill, and wind through the 12th-century escape tunnels of the Velvet Cave, which feature historic murals. Open January to mid-November, you need to have a guide to enter the tunnels. Admission adults €16.50, child (6-15) €12.00, under 6 free.
AGoGo Valkenburg is probably one of the shortest cable car rides you will encounter, at the top good views over the town with a range of activities including zip-wires, toboggan ride, mini-golf, hiking, walking and cycling options. Opening times are season but generally from mid to late morning through to around six in the evening. Prices vary, depending on what you choose to do.From mid-November through to early January the town transforms into the largest Christmas Market in Europe. All the caves host Christmas markets, there are parades throughout the time - it almost (only almost) even makes me feel Christmassy. In 2026 it begins on 13th November and ends on 3rd January. Prices are still to be announced but last years adult prices were in the range €9.00 through to €16.50 (children €5.00 to €12.00) depending on which caves you visit, advanced booking is essential.
If you want pampering the have a look at Thermae 2000, one of the largest Spas in the country, featuring indoor and outdoor thermal pools fed by natural springs. Admission prices from €37.50.
For a small town Valkenburg has an amazing selection of restaurants catering for all tastes and, even better the majority line the main street, giving plenty of options but also making choices difficult. My trick is o visit in the afternoon and look at the menues and make a shortlist.
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