South Limburg Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and places to visit in South Limburg with our comprehensive travel guide. From scenic outdoor adventures to cultural landmarks and local cuisine, we've got you covered.


Introduction to South Limburg

South Limburg is located in the southernmost tip of the Netherlands and is characterized by its rolling hills, lush greenery, historic towns, and rich culture. The region is known for its unique blend of Dutch, Belgian, and German influences, making for a fascinating cultural experience.

List of Places to Visit in South Limburg

South Limburg offers a plethora of attractions and landmarks to explore. Here are some of the must-visit places in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Valkenburg Castle Explore the rich history of South Limburg at Valkenburg Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in the region. Built in the 12th century, the castle features a museum showcasing various artifacts and exhibits dating back to the Middle Ages.
  • Bonnefanten Museum Located in Maastricht, the Bonnefanten Museum is a must-visit attraction for art lovers. The museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary art, as well as works from the medieval period and the Renaissance.

Natural Attractions of South Limburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Brunssummerheide Experience the stunning natural beauty of South Limburg at Brunssummerheide. This expansive nature reserve offers beautiful hiking trails and picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Mount Saint Peter Take in the breathtaking views of the region from atop Mount Saint Peter. This hill rises to a height of 171 meters and offers panoramic views of the Maas River Valley and the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South Limburg

South Limburg boasts a multitude of hiking and biking trails that take you through the beautiful countryside and charming towns of the region. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Amstel Gold Race Route For avid bikers, the Amstel Gold Race Route is a must-try. This 240 km route takes you through picturesque towns and countryside, culminating in the infamous Cauberg climb.
  • Maastricht City Walk Explore the historic town of Maastricht on foot with the Maastricht City Walk. This 5 km walking route takes you through the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions.

Best Things to Do in South Limburg: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, South Limburg has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride Experience South Limburg’s breathtaking beauty from a unique vantage point with a hot air balloon ride. Soar above the rolling hills and picturesque towns for an unforgettable experience.
  • Spa Day Relax and rejuvenate during a spa day in one of South Limburg’s renowned spa towns, such as Valkenburg or Thermae 2000.

Week-Long Itinerary for South Limburg

If you’re planning a week-long trip to South Limburg, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic town of Maastricht
Day 2 Visit Valkenburg Castle and the Bonnefanten Museum
Day 3 Hike or bike the Amstel Gold Race Route
Day 4 Take in the stunning views from Mount Saint Peter
Day 5 Relax and rejuvenate with a spa day
Day 6 Explore the charming town of Gulpen
Day 7 Enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the region

Food and Drink Scene of South Limburg

South Limburg’s cuisine is characterized by its hearty and flavorful dishes, as well as its production of regional beers and wines. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in the region:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Limburgse Vlaai This iconic dessert is a sweet, tart, and creamy pie made with fruit and a custard filling.
  • Rijstevlaai Another beloved dessert in the region, rijstevlaai is a rice pudding pie with a pastry crust.

Local Beverages

  • Trappist Beers South Limburg is home to several Trappist monasteries that produce some of the world’s best beers, including Westvleteren, La Trappe, and Chimay.
  • Maastricht Wines The region’s mild climate and fertile soil make it an ideal location for winemaking. Be sure to try a glass of Maastricht wine during your visit.

Where to Stay in South Limburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South Limburg offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of our top picks for where to stay in the region:

  • Château St. Gerlach This luxury hotel is housed in a restored 18th-century castle and features opulent rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • Stayokay Maastricht For budget travelers, Stayokay Maastricht offers affordable dorms and private rooms in a historic building located in the heart of Maastricht.

What to Buy in South Limburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a piece of South Limburg home with you by picking up some of the region’s unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy in the region:

  • Limburgse Vlaai Bring home a taste of South Limburg with a freshly baked Limburgse vlaai from one of the region’s bakeries.
  • Maastricht Ceramics Maastricht is renowned for its ceramics, and you can find stunning pieces in many of the town’s shops and boutiques.

Local Culture and Customs of South Limburg

South Limburg’s culture is a unique blend of Dutch, Belgian, and German influences, with its own distinct traditions and customs. Some of the region’s notable customs include:

  • Carnival South Limburg celebrates Carnival in the weeks leading up to Lent, with parades, parties, and colorful costumes.
  • Pilgrimages South Limburg is home to several sacred sites, and pilgrimages to these sites are an important aspect of the region’s religious culture.

Best Time to Visit South Limburg

The best time to visit South Limburg is in the spring and summer months, from April to September. During these months, the weather is mild, and the countryside is in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of South Limburg

To ensure an enjoyable and respectful visit to South Limburg, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do explore the charming towns and picturesque countryside.
  • Do learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, as many attractions and towns are best explored on foot.
  • Don’t be disrespectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t forget to tip your server in restaurants.

Safety and Health

South Limburg is generally a safe and healthy destination, with a low crime rate and high-quality healthcare facilities. However, travelers should always exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being.

Safety in South Limburg

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
  • Protect your valuables and personal belongings at all times.
  • Follow road and traffic rules when driving or biking.

Health in South Limburg

  • Make sure to have comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on your trip.
  • Stay up-to-date on necessary vaccinations and health requirements.
  • Be cautious when consuming food or beverages from street vendors or unfamiliar establishments.

Getting to South Limburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

South Limburg is easily accessible by several transportation options, including planes, trains, and buses.

Airports Near South Limburg

  • Maastricht Aachen Airport Located just 10 km from Maastricht, this airport serves several airlines with flights to major European destinations.

Bus Stations Near South Limburg

  • Maastricht Bus Station Located in the heart of Maastricht, this bus station offers connections to various destinations in South Limburg and beyond.

Other Options

  • Train South Limburg is easily accessible by train, with regular services connecting Maastricht to major cities in the Netherlands and neighboring countries.

How to Get Around in South Limburg

South Limburg is a relatively small region and is best explored by foot, bike, or car. Public transportation is also available, including buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from South Limburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time to explore more of the Netherlands or Europe, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Amsterdam Explore the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, located just a few hours’ drive or train ride from South Limburg.
  • Aachen, Germany Located just across the border, the historic city of Aachen is known for its striking cathedral and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

South Limburg has something for everyone, from history buffs to outdoor enthusiasts to foodies. With its unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and charming towns, it’s no wonder why it’s become a popular destination for travelers from around the world. We hope this guide has helped you plan your perfect trip to South Limburg, and we can’t wait for you to experience all the region has to offer.

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    Geleen
    Hoensbroek
    Maastricht
    Simpelveld
    Vaals
    Valkenburg aan de Geul