Camping in South Limburg: the Burgundian life
Green, undulating hills, castles, half-timbered farms and even vineyards: you would almost forget that you are in the Netherlands. That foreign feeling gives camping in South Limburg a special touch.
The ultimate way to experience the South Limburg hilly landscape is of course camping. Limburg has dozens of campsites of all shapes and sizes, from small farm campsites to luxury holiday parks with all the trimmings. And you can also easily park your camper at one of the many camper spots, or at the campsites, which often have a special service station for loading water and discharging waste water.
Half-timbered farms
When you think of South Limburg, you think of the Heuvelland with its many hiking areas, pristine forests and endless meadows. Here you can completely relax, along the rippling water of rivers such as the Geul and the Gulp. Be surprised again and again by beautiful views, sunken roads and traditional half-timbered farms that are scattered like white pearls among the undulating landscape. Walking or cycling through this region you will encounter them in almost every village or hamlet, especially in places like Mechelen, Epen, Slenaken and Holset. There are also crosses everywhere in the landscape: small monuments to the Catholic faith that all have their own story.
A rich past
Everywhere in South Limburg you will encounter age-old traces of civilization, religion, domination, war and prosperity. Such as rare excavations, cultural heritage, coal mines and interesting museums. For example, South Limburg has a rich Roman past: the Via Belgica was an important Roman trade route that ran from Maastricht to Heerlen. With a walk or bike ride along this road you will follow in the footsteps of the Romans and you will come across all kinds of Roman remains, such as tombs, bathhouses, watchtowers and villas.
Closer by is the mining history of the Netherlands' southernmost province, which you mainly encounter in the eastern part of South Limburg. In recent decades, this area has transformed significantly from a 'black' to a 'green' region. Many major daytime attractions, interspersed with (new) nature reserves and cultural offerings in the cities, now adorn this former mining area.
Standard orchards
When the fruit trees are in full bloom in the spring, they adorn this rolling region with their impressive display of colour. The pink cherry blossom is followed by the creamy white pear blossom and the light pink apple blossom – a treat to drive by and take photos.
Because of their landscape, cultural-historical and biological value, the standard orchards have been preserved here. Before the beginning of summer, fertility is brought on to the livestock and the fields by planting a maiden pine. This old tradition can be found in villages such as Meerssen, Valkenburg, Noorbeek and Banholt. A tall, bare pine is 'planted' upright in the middle of the village and decorated with the traditional wreath.
From the land to the plate
When you think of South Limburg, you probably immediately think of pie, asparagus and pickled meat. But there is so much more delicious: there are many fruit growers here who sell their products directly from the land in their farm shop. Also think of the Livar monastery pig that is lovingly cared for here. The many beer breweries, traditionally run by families, also contribute to the gastronomic wealth of Limburg.
Did you also know, for example, that the traditional distilling of Limburg syrup has been added to the UNESCO list of intangible heritage? This is still done in the traditional way in copper kettles on an open fire. Only organically grown apples and pear varieties are used here, from standard orchards. The fruit is cooked without the addition of colours, aromas or flavors into a delicious syrup, of which you can of course take a jar with you to the campsite.
Limburgers have a lot of love for life, and love goes through the stomach: as a visitor you can enjoy the Burgundian life and culinary gourmets will also get their money's worth here. You can discover restaurants in castles, farms and even underground: in the Limburg caves. There you can be pampered to the bone by star chefs with their local specialties.
Family fun
Yet it is not just the beautiful landscape and Burgundian hospitality that puts South Limburg on the map. The presence of top international attractions also makes a visit more than worthwhile. From watching monkeys in the zoo to taking off your shoes on the barefoot path. Or from a ride on the steam train to endlessly getting lost in the most exciting and highest labyrinth in the Netherlands. There is a lot to do in South Limburg for young and old!
Campsites in South Limburg
From city camping to panoramic camping and from mini camping to glamping - with fully equipped safari tents and rental accommodations - at a holiday park: the offer for campers is very varied in South Limburg. And how about sleeping at the farmer's house? A party for the children and an oasis of peace for the parents: stroking calves, feeding goats and counting sheep during the day will ensure you sleep well. And then wake up to the birdsong... You open the curtains and see the sun slowly warming the hilly landscape. You smell the coffee and freshly baked pastries. This is not a dream, but South Limburg hospitality.
For the best campsites, outings and tips in South Limburg, visit: www.visitzuidlimburg.nl. An overview of all campsites can be found at: www.visitzuidlimburg.nl/kamperen
Wide range of campers and caravans
Want to explore South Limburg in your own camper or caravan? Our website contains a large and current range of new and used campers and caravans. View the offer here. Even more interesting camping areas view here.
