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Trips to Valkenburg
Valkenburg aan de Geul enjoys a certain reputation for its historical attractions. If the weather is fine, go to Theodoor Dorrenplein or Fluwelengrot: these are two fantastic places to relax in Valkenburg aan de Geul. Nearby attractions, such as Bonnefanten Museum and Basilica of Our Lady, will not leave you indifferent.
How to get to Valkenburg aan de Geul
When to travel to Valkenburg aan de Geul
The Castle of Valkenburg
At the top of a hill, overlooking the town of Valkenburg aan de Geul, rises the Valkenburg castle, which, together with its underground caves, allow you to immerse yourself in Dutch history. Climb the hill to enjoy a magnificent panorama of Valkenburg.
The castle was originally built in 1115. It was destroyed during the siege of Henry V in 1122 and rebuilt in the fourteenth century. Unfortunately, the castle was razed again in 1672 by King William III to prevent the French invaders from appropriating it. If you visit Valkenburg Castle today, you will see a labyrinthine ruin full of recesses that you can explore.
Families traveling with children can have fun dressing up as gentlemen and princesses. On special days and during school holidays, you can watch the bird of prey shows that take place twice a day, where you will learn more about the art of falconry and you will be able to admire hawks, vultures, and eagles in action.
Wrap up to explore the labyrinth of caves located under the ruins of Valkenburg: the stone insulates the caves from the summer sun. Known as the velvet caves, the tunnels were exploited to build the castle, but they were also used secretly during the sieges to bring and bring supplies to the castle. The caves are decorated with murals, sculptures and historical graffiti. But the best kept secret of the castle is the 18th century chapel, with chandeliers and religious works of art. If you visit the area in November or December, do not miss the Christmas market held inside the caves.
Under the castle there is a restaurant where you can sit and rest and enjoy the view of Valkenburg and the castle lit from below after sunset.
The caves and the Valkenburg castle have separate entrances. You can buy a combined ticket to get a discount. There are free guides where you will find information about the history of the place. The castle is open every day for most of the year, from mid-morning until the end of working hours, with extended hours during the weekend. The caves are accessible by wheelchair, but the ruins are not.