Valkenburg to Heerlen via Sint Pietervoetpad, Hoenspad and Hendlichpad

Starting from the charming town of Valkenburg, this 21 km (about 13 miles) route to Heerlen weaves through the rolling hills and lush countryside of South Limburg, with a gentle elevation gain of approximately 200 metres (650 feet). The trail follows a combination of the Sint Pietervoetpad, Hoenspad, and Hendlichpad, offering a scenic and culturally rich journey through one of the Netherlands’ most picturesque regions.

Getting There

Valkenburg is easily accessible by train, with direct connections from Maastricht and Heerlen. The train station is centrally located, just a short walk from the town center and the trailhead. For those arriving by car, parking is available near Valkenburg’s main attractions, such as the Valkenburg Castle Ruins or the Thermae 2000 spa complex.

Trail Overview and Navigation

The route is well-marked, but carrying the HiiKER app is highly recommended for up-to-date navigation and trail conditions. The path is mostly easy underfoot, with a mix of paved lanes, forest tracks, and open field paths. Expect gentle ascents and descents as you traverse the undulating landscape.

Highlights Along the Way

*Valkenburg’s Historic Core* Begin your journey near the Valkenburg Castle Ruins, the only hilltop castle in the Netherlands, dating back to the 11th century. The town itself is renowned for its marlstone caves, medieval architecture, and vibrant café culture.

*Limburg’s Rolling Hills and Orchards* Leaving Valkenburg, the trail quickly immerses you in the region’s iconic patchwork of meadows, orchards, and hedgerows. In spring and early summer, wildflowers line the paths, and you may spot kestrels, buzzards, and the occasional roe deer in the fields.

*Sint Pietersberg and the Geul Valley* The Sint Pietervoetpad section skirts the edge of the Geul Valley, a protected nature reserve known for its limestone grasslands and rare orchids. The Geul River meanders through the valley, and several picturesque footbridges offer excellent photo opportunities.

*Hoensbroek Castle and Surroundings* Approaching Hoensbroek, the trail passes near the imposing Hoensbroek Castle, one of the largest and best-preserved castles in the Netherlands. The castle’s origins date back to the 13th century, and its moat and towers are a striking sight. The surrounding parkland is home to herons, woodpeckers, and a variety of songbirds.

*Hendlichpad to Heerlen* The final stretch along the Hendlichpad leads you through quiet woodlands and past small hamlets before entering Heerlen. This former mining town has reinvented itself as a cultural hub, with street art, museums, and lively squares. The Roman Baths Museum is a highlight for history enthusiasts, showcasing the area’s ancient past.

Practical Considerations

The trail is rated as easy, suitable for most walkers with a basic level of fitness. Surfaces can be muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is advisable. There are several villages along the route with cafés and shops, but it’s wise to carry water and snacks, especially on weekends when some establishments may be closed.

Public transport options are available at both ends of the hike, with frequent trains from Heerlen back to Valkenburg or onward to Maastricht and other cities. For those using HiiKER, the app provides real-time updates on trail conditions and points of interest, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey through the heart of Limburg.