Limburg, Netherlands

Known for Amsterdam, tulip flowers, windmills, bicycles, and being extremely flat, I was quite shocked to discover the hilly area of Limburg in the south of the Netherlands. But it was an incredible find that I now recommend for anyone visiting the area!

Located between Belgium and Germany, this little area has rolling hills, quaint towns, and loads of history in the regional capital of Maastricht. If you ever want to get out of the typical tourist part of the country, explore some diverse landscape , and take in well-preserved historical sites, here are 4 things to see in the Limburg area.

1. Maastricht

Being the biggest city in the area, located close to the Belgium border, Maastricht is a history fanatic hot spot. With well-preserved medieval walls, towers, moats, windmills, and cute bars and city centre all located within a short 15 minute walk from the train station. Sadly, when I was visiting it was the middle of the lockdown, so we ended up just exploring around and getting lost in all the quaint streets, but from what I've been informed, there are lots of options of bars/restaurants, and thanks to the university in the city, it holds a vibrant culture of hanging out.

2. Countryside Walks

With several buses escaping the city, you quickly leave the city behind and find yourself in the countryside, where there are rolling hills, lots of trails through the countryside/woods, and nice views of what the region has to offer. We ended up staying in Gulpen and walking up the hills near to the town, which provided us pretty views of the town, sometime out in nature, and so nice wooded area.

3. Castles

Scattered throughout the region, and close to the Germany border, there lies several castles, with nice views of the rolling hills around.

4. Caves

Located on the outskirts of Maastricht lies several opportunities to visit the underground tunnels and caves that exist that surround the area. Unfortunetly during my trip I was unable to make it to these, but from hear-se they are quite worth exploring and a unique experience.