Welcome to Valkenburg aan de Geul—a fairytale town in the South Limburg hills, where ancient caves, medieval castle ruins, and thrilling outdoor activities combine into one unforgettable Dutch experience. While most visitors to the Netherlands imagine windmills and tulips, Valkenburg reveals a very different side of the country—one carved from limestone, steeped in Roman history, and buzzing with adventure.
Your first stop? The mysterious Velvet Cave (Fluweelengrot) and the Valkenburg Castle Ruins that tower above it. You can wander through dimly lit passageways once used by knights and soldiers to escape during sieges. Then there’s the dramatic Gemeentegrot (Municipal Cave)—a massive underground network where you can take a guided tour, ride a little cave train, or even go cave biking for a once-in-a-lifetime thrill. Be sure to check the schedule in winter when these caves are transformed into magical Christmas markets, glowing with lights and holiday spirit.
But Valkenburg isn’t just about going underground. Ride the Cable Car to the Wilhelmina Tower for panoramic views, or zoom down the toboggan run for some high-speed fun. Feeling indulgent? Recharge at Thermae 2000, a wellness spa perched on the Cauberg, where you can soak in mineral-rich waters while overlooking the rolling hills of Limburg.
And just when you think you’ve seen it all, the town surprises you again. Ever explored a replica of the Roman Catacombs or visited a museum inside a coal mine? In Valkenburg, you can do both in the same afternoon.
Here’s what makes Valkenburg truly unique: it’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and quirky charm. Whether you’re a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or just someone who loves discovering new places, Valkenburg invites you to explore above and below ground.
Staying centrally in the Netherlands at Bungalow Park ’t Eekhoornnest in Soest? Great news—Valkenburg is an easy day trip by train or car. Come for the caves, stay for the culture, and don’t be surprised if you fall a little in love with this limestone wonderland.
Ready to uncover hidden corners, savor Dutch hospitality, and get your heart racing? Keep reading—we’re just getting started with the most exciting things to do in Valkenburg.
Valkenburg’s Hidden Corners, Cozy Eats & Unexpected Delights
You’ve explored the caves and marveled at the views—now let’s slow down and discover Valkenburg’s hidden gems. This little town in South Limburg is full of character, with winding stone alleyways, historic taverns, scenic walking paths, and small surprises tucked into every hillside. It’s the kind of place where a short stroll turns into a full-day adventure.
Underground Stories Few Tourists Hear About
Most visitors head straight to the Fluweelengrot or Gemeentegrot, and while those are a must, there’s something extra special about the lesser-known Sibbergroeve—a vast limestone quarry you can explore on a guided tour. Here, you’ll walk in the footsteps of stonemasons, marvel at ancient fossils embedded in the marl walls, and maybe even try your hand at cave biking with an actual underground bike tour—yes, that’s a thing in Valkenburg!
Nearby, Mergelrijk offers a whimsical mix of art, storytelling, and cave architecture. It’s especially fun for kids, with sand sculptures and interactive exhibits that explain the geology of the area in an engaging way.
Quaint Spots to Eat, Drink & Soak Up the Vibe
After all that underground adventure, it’s time to come up for air—and a bite to eat. For a relaxed lunch or dinner with a view, head to Aan de Linde, a riverside restaurant where you can sit outdoors and watch the Geul River gently pass by. Their local Limburg cheese platter is a fan favorite, especially with a crisp Dutch white wine.
For something truly atmospheric, reserve a table at Château St. Gerlach or the intimate restaurant inside Schaloen Castle. Dining in a real Dutch castle with stone walls and candlelight? That’s a memory in the making.
If you’re visiting during the colder months, the entire town transforms into Christmas Town Valkenburg. Along the Sparkle Trail, you’ll find twinkling lights, Christmas Crib Walks, festive snacks, and even street theater. The Valkenburg Christmas Market, held inside the caves, is unlike anything else in Europe.
Unexpected Finds Around Town
Curious minds will enjoy the Roman Catacombs Museum, a detailed and eerily fascinating replica of the catacombs found in Rome, recreated under Dutch soil. History buffs can take a Walking Tour to learn about the town’s role during the Eighty Years’ War and the Cold War, while more playful visitors might choose a Food Walking Tour, complete with sweet and savory Dutch treats.
If you’re up for some active fun, try miniature golf in a cave or ride the Cable Car to the Wilhelmina Tower, then soar down the toboggan run. You’ll find surprises like these at nearly every turn.
And when your day winds down? Return to the peaceful comfort of Bungalow Park ’t Eekhoornnest in Soest, where your centrally located holiday bungalow awaits. Valkenburg may be filled with underground wonder, but it’s the above-ground charm, food, and atmosphere that truly stay with you.
