Wondertour #2 Aachen → Maastricht
A Wondertour of hilly areas with the most beautiful views
This cycling route takes you from Ludwig Forum Aachen and NAK Neuer Aachener Kunstverein in Aachen (D) to Bureau Europa in Maastricht (NL). The route is pretty easy, it's practically a straight run from Aachen to Maastricht over bicycle paths, but the road includes some steep climbs - especially if you take the detour up to the Three Country Point on top of Vaalserberg hill. Vaalserberg hill is the highest point in the Netherlands and the views from the top are priceless. During the rest of the cycling route you can also enjoy beautiful views of Limburg's hilly country, and you can visit remarkable history sites like the Aachen Cathedral, Klooster Wittem and Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial, before arriving in Maastricht's beautiful historic city centre.
Tour highlights
Start: Ludwig Forum Aachen Google Maps
The Ludwig Forum for International Art Aachen is a multi-genre, contemporary art institution. Peter and Irene Ludwig's collection - which comprises key works of Pop Art, Photorealism and European art from the 1960s to the present - is the core of what is on display.
NAK Neuer Aachener Kunstverein (Aachen), Google Maps
NAK Neuer Aachener Kunstverein is a private non-profit association for contemporary art and one of the youngest institutions of its kind in Germany. NAK is a core institution of the local art scene, but far beyond this, it is also recognized internationally as an innovative platform for contemporary art and its discourse.
Aachener Dom Google Maps
Located in the heart of the old city, Aachen Cathedral is one of the main attractions of Aachen. Its architecture and features still highlight the significance and imposing nature of the building, which was completed at the end of the 8th century at the request of Emperor Charlemagne. The Aachen Cathedral treasury is considered one of the most important of its kind north of the Alps. Its collection includes numerous sacred gold and silver items such as chalices, reliquaries and altarpieces.
Three Country Point Google Maps
On top of the Vaalserberg you'll find the Three Country Point between Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. It's also the highest point of The Netherlands. There are several touristic attractions, like watchtowers, a labyrinth, playgrounds, and restaurants.
Klooster Wittem Google Maps
For centuries, pilgrimage site Klooster Wittem has been a hospitable resting place for the soul but is best known as a pilgrimage site for Saint Gerard Majella and Mary of Perpetual Help. There is an oasis of peace in this Redemptorist monastery. Every day many candles are lit. We recommend visiting the monastery's library if you have the chance! You will be amazed.
Gulpener Brouwlokaal Google Maps
The Gulpener Brouwlokaal consists of a microbrewery, taste library, beer theatre, study lab, beer shop, and a unique catering concept with its own terrace and hop garden.
The Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial Google Maps
The Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial is the only American military cemetery in the Netherlands. The cemetery's tall memorial tower can be seen before reaching the site. Beyond the tower lies a burial area for 8,301 military dead.
End: Bureau Europa (Maastricht), Google Maps
Bureau Europa is a platform for architecture & design presenting exhibitions and other activities on the culture of the designed environment. Bureau Europa's focus is mainly on Europe and the Euregion from a social perspective and contemporary topics relevant to society at large.
