Discover Valkenburg: Limburg’s Fairytale Town of History and Hills

Nestled in the rolling hills of South Limburg, the town of Valkenburg is unlike anywhere else in the Netherlands. As your guide, I’m thrilled to show you this rare blend of historic castles, underground cave systems, Roman ruins, wellness spas, and a unique cultural flair influenced by its proximity to Germany and Belgium.
 

Whether you're a history enthusiast, foodie, nature lover, or relaxation seeker, Valkenburg delivers a rich and diverse experience in a compact and walkable setting.

📍 Quick Facts About Valkenburg

Location: Limburg Province, the Netherlands

Population: ~16,000

Best Known For: Caves, ruins, hilltop castles, Christmas markets, and spas

Best Time to Visit: Spring to autumn, and December for Christmas markets

🗺️ Getting to Valkenburg

Valkenburg is easily accessible from major Dutch and European cities:

🚆 By Train:

From Maastricht: 12 minutes

From Amsterdam: 2.5–3 hours (transfer in Maastricht or Heerlen)

🚗 By Car:

From Maastricht: 15 minutes

From Cologne, Germany: ~1 hour 15 minutes

Parking is available in garages or public lots near the town center

🏛️ Top Attractions in Valkenburg

1. 🏯 Valkenburg Castle Ruins (Kasteelruïne Valkenburg)

Perched on a hill overlooking the town, the ruins of Valkenburg Castle are the only elevated castle ruins in the Netherlands. Built in the 12th century, they provide panoramic views and a dramatic historical backdrop.

Explore medieval stairways, dungeons, and defense towers

Combine your visit with the Velvet Cave below (see next)

2. 🕳️ Velvet Cave (Fluweelengrot)

Beneath the castle lies the Velvet Cave, a labyrinth of tunnels originally carved by Romans and later used during wars for refuge. Today, the tunnels house murals, sculptures, WWII history, and even an underground chapel.

Magical during Valkenburg’s Christmas Market (held inside the caves)

Audio guides available for self-paced exploration

3. 🎄 Christmas Markets in the Caves (Mid-November to December)

If you visit in winter, you’re in for a unique holiday experience. Valkenburg hosts the Netherlands' most famous underground Christmas market, set in the Velvet and Municipal caves.

Handmade gifts, mulled wine, lights, and carols underground

Ranked among Europe’s top alternative holiday markets

4. 🧖 Thermae 2000 – Wellness Spa

Set atop the Cauberg hill, Thermae 2000 is one of the Netherlands' top thermal spas. Its natural spring water, panoramic pools, and sauna world are perfect for relaxing.

Full day access includes baths, saunas, and wellness treatments

Book in advance, especially on weekends

5. 🪨 Gemeentegrot (Municipal Cave)

Separate from the Velvet Cave, this vast network of passages also showcases murals, historical carvings, and a fascinating history of smuggling and shelter during wartime.

Open for guided tours and cave biking (!)

Don’t miss the annual Christmas Sand Sculpture Exhibit

6. 🚡 Valkenburg Cable Car & Wilhelmina Tower

Take a cable car ride to the top of Cauberg Hill, where you’ll find the Wilhelmina Tower—a great spot for panoramic views and adventure activities.

Try the toboggan run (rodelbaan) or zipline

Perfect for families and thrill-seekers

7. 🏛️ Roman Catacombs (Romeinse Katakomben)

A true surprise in Valkenburg, these underground replicas of Rome’s catacombs are built to scale and filled with biblical frescoes and tomb architecture.

Educational and eerily fascinating

Guided tours available in Dutch, German, and English

8. 🧗 Marlstone Quarry & Biking Tours

Valkenburg’s hills and quarries make for excellent cycling. Marlstone, the local yellowish rock, has shaped the architecture and terrain. Rent an e-bike and follow scenic trails through caves, vineyards, and hilltop views.

🌳 Outdoor Adventures & Scenic Spots

🥾 Walking & Hiking

Cauberg Hill – Famous among cyclists and perfect for short hikes

Geulpark – Lush riverside paths ideal for a quiet walk

Schaloen Castle – A fairy-tale estate with surrounding woodland trails

🚴 Cycling

Valkenburg is a key stop in the Amstel Gold Race, the Netherlands’ biggest cycling event

Rent a bike and explore hilly Limburg countryside or vineyard routes

🥘 Where to Eat in Valkenburg

🍽️ Local Specialties

Zuurvlees – A sweet-sour beef stew typical of Limburg

Vlaai – A traditional fruit tart, best with a local coffee

Maastricht-style wines and beers

🏆 Recommended Restaurants

Château St. Gerlach – Elegant, historic, and Michelin-recommended

De Haselderhof – Great views, traditional Dutch meals

Bistro Beleef – Creative seasonal menus with a local twist

Brasserie America – Cozy and perfect for lunch or coffee breaks

🏨 Where to Stay in Valkenburg

✨ Luxury

Château St. Gerlach – Set in a restored monastery with gardens, spa, and vineyard

Thermae 2000 Hotel – Wellness-focused stay with full spa access

🛏️ Mid-Range

Hotel Valkenburg by Mercure – Comfortable, modern, central

Hotel Scheepers – Family-run and close to all attractions

💰 Budget

Stayokay Valkenburg (Hostel) – Affordable, clean, and youth-friendly

Camping Den Driesch – For nature lovers and campers

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Valkenburg

Tip: Late November to Christmas is magical with lights, music, and festive events underground and in the town square.

📷 Top Instagram-Worthy Spots

Sunset from Valkenburg Castle

Inside the illuminated caves

Wilhelmina Tower with fall foliage

Traditional vlaai at a terrace café

Roman Catacombs for eerie vibes

🛍️ Shopping in Valkenburg

Local boutiques selling marlstone carvings

Christmas markets offer handmade goods

Limburg delicacies: mustard, herbal liquors, cheeses, and vlaai

🧠 Fun Facts About Valkenburg

Valkenburg is one of the few Dutch towns built on hills.

During WWII, residents used the caves to hide from Nazi occupation.

Its marlstone has been used in Dutch architecture for centuries.

Valkenburg was a fashionable resort town in the 19th century, attracting Dutch royalty.

🧳 What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes (cobbled streets + caves)

Jacket or sweater for underground tours (caves are cool year-round)

Camera or phone with night mode for cave photos

Sunscreen and hat for summer hillside walks

Swimsuit if visiting Thermae 2000

✅ Travel Tips

Buy a combo ticket for the castle and cave attractions

Use Dutch Rail (NS) for train discounts and group travel

Book spa and cave tours in advance, especially in peak season

Try the cave biking experience for something totally unique

Consider a day trip to Maastricht, just 15 minutes away

🌍 Nearby Destinations

If you have extra time, explore:

Maastricht – Stylish Dutch city full of culture and great food

Aachen, Germany – Spa town with a historic cathedral

Liège, Belgium – Known for waffles, culture, and shopping

✨ Why Visit Valkenburg?

Valkenburg is more than just a charming Dutch town—it’s a gateway to history, adventure, and natural beauty, all wrapped up in a fairytale setting. From ancient Roman tunnels and castle ruins to spa retreats and festive markets, Valkenburg is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.

Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family holiday, or a cultural escape, Valkenburg promises a mix of authentic Dutch charm and unforgettable experiences.