Siege and conquest were characteristic of the history of Valkenburg. The castle in the middle of the city, of which now only a ruin remains was destroyed destroyed in December 1672. Only two city gates (the Berkelpoort and the Grendelpoort) and a part of the citywalls survived destruction.
In 1853 a railway station was built on a line connecting the two cities of Maastricht and Aachen, making it possible to discover the charming little town of Valkenburg.
Nowadays Valkenburg is famous for its cycling events and its touristic character. There are several attractions to be found within walking distance of the city centre.
Valkenburg has the oldest stone train station in the Netherlands. It is on the train line between Heerlen and Maastricht with connections from both sides every 15 minutes. The trainline is operated by Veolia Transport [1]; train trips can be planned with the NS Reisplanner [2]. The city center can be reached on foot from the train station in 5 minutes.
Most attractions are easily reached on foot from the city center. Both Thermae 2000 and the Holland Casino are at the top of the Cauberg and require a fair climb for dutch standards. The tourist office [3] (VVV) can be found near the large rock (Kei) in the city center.
It is also possible to rent a bike to explore the beautiful surroundings of the city. Within a ten minute walk from the train station bikes can be rented [4].
Zuid Limburgse Stoomtrein Maatschappij [5] operates a steam locomotive between Valkenburg and Kerkrade and a branch to Vetschau in Germany. Trains run during the summer holiday season, the Sinterklaas (November to December 5) period and the Christmas period.
Early Roman Catholic Catacombs (reconstruction). edit
Kasteel Den Halder, Kerkstraat 31. Castle is not open to visitors.edit
Town Walls and Valkenburg old houses. to the south of Valkenburg rises the Dwingelrots (Castle Rock), which is crowned by the ruined castle of the lords of Valkenburg. The castle was founded in the 12th century; the tower and the fortified communicating passages, some of them hewn from the rock, were built later. After several sieges and several rebuildings, the ruined castle was abandoned in 1672. A secret passage led from the castle to the caves hewn from the rock below. edit
The local marlstone was already being used as a building material in Roman times. The underground quarrying of the stone has left a series of caves, which is arguably the number one attraction that stands out in Valkenburg. You could visit any number of times and still find something new and different. The caves themselves are a treasure chest of art and expression. As a tip, take a digital camera (with a flash, the guide is the only person who has a torch!) and be prepared to take a lot of photographs. There are amazing images and drawings hidden away in the darkness.
Gemeentegrot (Municipal Cave), [8]. Which was also used as a bomb shelter during the World War II.edit
Fluweelengrot, [9]. With an exhibition illustrating the origins and development of man. If you take the 1 hour guided walk, you will be hard pushed to do more than catch a glimpse of some of the amazing wonders and sights. edit
Panoramagrot. Largest panorama painting in the Netherlands. Only open in July & August.edit
Valkenier, [10]. Recreation/Theme park well suited to children up to 10 years old.edit
Most hotels in Valkenburg also have a restaurant where you can eat. See the Sleep listings for information.
El Castillo, Muntstraat 6, ☎ +31 (0)43 - 601 57 55, [16]. Mexican restaurant with a buffet menu that offers a wide choice of soups, main dishes, deserts, etc. The restaurant is well decorated and has a large garden that is open all-year round. Be aware that this is a popular restaurant, so reservations are advised during weekends and holidays.Buffet: € 25,50. edit
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