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Historic city · Maastricht, Limburgo
Valkenburg aan de Geul
Small town about 15 km from Maastricht, with the ruins of the Netherlands' only hill castle, caves opened in the limestone, and Christmas markets inside the caves.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Valkenburg aan de Geul
Valkenburg aan de Geul lies in the valley of the Geul stream, about 15 km east of Maastricht, in a hilly landscape that hardly resembles the rest of the Netherlands. It has been a classic day-trip destination for the Dutch since the 19th century.
At the top of the hill are the ruins of Valkenburg Castle, the country's only hill castle. The first fortification dates to around 1075; the castle was destroyed in 1672 and was never completely demolished. Beneath it run escape passages linked to the Fluweelengrot, a cave opened by stone removal since about 1050, visited with a guide. The castle and cave visit is done together.
In town there are other caves from which marl was quarried for centuries, such as the Gemeentegrot, with drawings and sculptures on its walls. From mid-November to the end of December, the Gemeentegrot and the Fluweelengrot usually host underground Christmas markets that pack the town.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day for the castle, the Fluweelengrot and a stroll through the centre; a full day if you include another cave.
Best time
From spring to autumn, for walking the hills. The Christmas markets in the caves usually run from mid-November to the end of December, with large crowds on weekends; prefer weekdays.
How to get there
By train, Valkenburg is about 15–20 minutes from Maastricht station; check timetables. By car it's about 15 km. From Valkenburg station to the castle is a few minutes on foot.
Tip
Bring a coat for the caves, which are cold year-round, and sturdy footwear for the climb to the castle. During the Christmas market season, buy cave tickets in advance.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Valkenburg aan de Geul
How to get from Maastricht to Valkenburg?
By train, in about 15 to 20 minutes, or by car, about 15 km. Check the schedules.
When do the Christmas markets in the Valkenburg caves take place?
They usually run from mid-November to the end of December, in the Gemeentegrot and the Fluweelengrot. Check the dates and buy tickets in advance.
Is the Fluweelengrot visited with a guide?
Yes. The cave is visited with a guide, together with a visit to the castle ruins.