A path leads from the deeply incised Meuse valley up to a plateau almost 100 metres higher. This changing landscape shapes many discoveries in Eijsden-Margraten: hiking, historic places and cultural themes sit side by side, without every outing being the same.

Hiking trails with different perspectives

The “Langs vuursteen” route in the Savelsbos is about five kilometres long. Its course from the Meuse valley to the plateau makes the change in elevation part of the hiking experience. Check the current route conditions before setting out. The Savelsbos is freely accessible to visitors; local access conditions may change. Several prehistoric flint mines are also located in the forest. According to information about the area, the Netherlands’ largest badger population also lives in the Savelsbos.

“Rondom het Plateau van Margraten” offers a different perspective: the 7.6-kilometre hiking route passes farms, pastures and orchards, and opens up views of the hills of South Limburg from the plateau.

Other routes have their own focus. The Cultuurroute Eijsden starts at the railway station and passes the Ursulinenklooster, the Bat and Kasteel Eijsden. The historic village walking route takes you through the historic centre, past the former Ursuline monastery—now a family museum—and by Kasteel Eijsden, which dates from 1636. If you are planning a guided tour, check its availability before booking. The “Door het decor van Dagboek van een Herdershond” route leads to filming locations of the television series in and around Eijsden. Its starting point should not be confused with the listed location and parking information: the Ursulinenconvent is listed at Breusterstraat 27, and a parking option is listed at Treffersteeg.

Castles, museums and remembrance

Kasteel Eijsden lies south of Eijsden, on the River Meuse. It is a manor house with a castle farm in the Meuse Renaissance style. The park, laid out around 1900, is freely accessible; the castle itself is privately owned. As local access conditions may change, it is worth checking before your visit. When planning your outing, bear in mind that the castle and park are not the same thing.

Kasteel Mheer offers a different architectural contrast: the complex consists of a four-winged castle and a U-shaped outer courtyard. Its origins date back to the Middle Ages; in 1314 it was mentioned as a “stone house”. Different themes come together at Museum Het Ursulinenconvent. Its collections include African tribal art, santons from Provence, objects from dynastic Europe and a 19th-century pharmacy. They are complemented by the history of the Ursuline order and the remembrance of Jewish Limburg. Visitors can also learn more about family history, genealogy, family culture and family traditions.

The Amerikaanse Begraafplaats in Margraten is the only American cemetery in the Netherlands; more than 8,000 American soldiers are buried there. The visitor offering includes free activities and services led by professional guides, as well as tours without a guide. An activity booklet is aimed at children and families. Check tour times before you travel if you have a particular offering in mind.

Landscape, traditions and local tastings

You can also explore different themes on two wheels. The 46.8-kilometre “Langs Kunst en Cultuur” route introduces local traditions such as shooting associations and the traditional “cramignon” dance. It starts at Eijsden railway station, where parking is also available. You can use the cycling node network to find your way. Check route conditions and access to the station before setting out.

The Bloesemfietsroute Eijsden-Margraten passes high-stem orchards around Eijsden, Mesch and Sint Geertruid, showcasing the traditional form of fruit growing. Blossom season is seasonal—so the timing of your visit matters if you want the orchards to be the focus. Another cycling route, “Bevrijding van het Heuvelland”, passes Second World War sites in the South Limburg hill country, including the Old Hickory Monument and a listening stone next to the viewing tower on the Mescherhei. Check the conditions for each route before setting out.

For an insight into cheese-making, Stassen Kaas offers visits where you can learn more about artisan cheese-making. Tastings include at least three types of cheese, as well as local syrup, chutney, honey, jam and bread. Confirm visit and tasting arrangements in advance. This gives you a choice of cultural history, landscapes and local produce, depending on your interests.

Discover more destinations

Margraten, Mesch, Noorbeek, Eijsden, Bemelen, Eckelrade, Gronsveld, Meerssen

For the overview of the wider region: Limburg.