The ruins
Limestone walls.
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The Valkenburg Castle Ruins are the remains of a medieval castle on a hill above the town of Valkenburg in the province of Limburg, southern Netherlands, about 10 km in a straight line east of Maastricht. It is the only castle in the Netherlands built on a hilltop. The castle dates back to the 12th century and was the seat of the lords of Valkenburg, before being left in ruins in the 17th century. Its walls of pale limestone, arches and windows still stand along the edge of the hill, looking over the town's rooftops and the Geul valley. Visitors wander among the ruins and climb steps to the highest point for views over the town and the surrounding countryside. The castle connects to underground passages in old limestone caves, known as the Velvet Cave, dug over centuries to quarry stone, which can be visited on guided tours. An entry fee is charged for the castle and caves. Valkenburg is a small resort town among hills, known in November and December for seasonal markets held inside its caves.
Limestone walls.
Underground passages.
Over the Geul valley.
Valkenburg aan de Geul, Limburg, Netherlands
About 10 km in a straight line.
Yes, on guided tours.