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The train to South Limburg is the ideal way to discover the hill walks of the Heuvelland, with stations that give you direct access to the best routes. By leaving the car at home, you avoid parking stress and travel in a relaxed way while the landscape glides past your window. Read on and discover how to plan your hike smartly and comfortably.
The best connections to the Limburg Heuvelland
South Limburg is very easy to reach by rail. From the Randstad and other major cities you travel on a direct Intercity of Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to Maastricht Central. This station is the main gateway to the region. From here, the regional operator Arriva takes you further into the Heuvelland. Trains run frequently and reliably, giving you plenty of flexibility in your planning.
The most important lines for walkers are:
- RE18 (fast train): this train connects Maastricht, Heerlen and Aachen. It is a fast option that takes you deeper into the region, allowing you to even do a cross-border walk.
- RS18 (stopping train): this line stops at all intermediate stations, including Valkenburg and Schin op Geul. This makes it the perfect connection for anyone who wants to start directly on a walking route. The journey time from Maastricht to Valkenburg is only twenty minutes.
By using the rail network you can easily plan a linear hike. You start your walk at one station and finish at another, after which you simply take the train back. This gives you the freedom to cover longer distances without having to worry about getting back to your car.
‘ Because the routes start directly from the station, Valkenburg is the ideal base for a day trip. ’
Valkenburg: starting point for walks through the Geul valley
Valkenburg station is one of the best starting points for hill walks in South Limburg. As soon as you step off the train, you are at the foot of the Geul valley. This area is characterised by gently rolling hills, the meandering river Geul, half-timbered farms and dense hillside forests. Well-marked footpaths lead you past castles, marl caves and viewpoints with far-reaching panoramas.
The routes around Valkenburg offer something for everyone. You can opt for a short, leisurely walk along the Geul or a challenging route with serious height differences. Because the routes start directly from the station, Valkenburg is the ideal base for a day trip. After your walk you can enjoy a locally brewed beer or a slice of Limburg vlaai (fruit tart) in town before getting back on the train.
Multi-day hikes and other special routes
The rail network in South Limburg is also perfect for multi-day hiking trips. By linking several stations, you can map out a route that takes you through the Heuvelland for several days. Stay overnight in one of the many villages and continue your walk the next day to the next station. This gives you the chance to really get to know the region.
The Miljoenenlijn in Schin op Geul
A special experience is a trip on the Miljoenenlijn. This is a historic steam train that runs between Schin op Geul and Kerkrade. From Schin op Geul station, which is also on the regular Arriva line, you can combine a nostalgic train journey with a walk. Get off at one of the intermediate stops and walk back through the hilly landscape. The timetable is seasonal, so make sure to check departure times in advance.
Other starting points in the region
In addition to Valkenburg there are more stations that can serve as starting points for your hill walks:
- Heerlen: this station gives you access to the walking areas in Parkstad. From here you can also take a bus to surrounding villages that are not directly on the railway line.
- Maastricht Randwyck: this station is on the edge of Maastricht and close to the Sint-Pietersberg. Here you will find challenging routes with steep climbs and an impressive view over the river Meuse.
- Drielandentrein: for those who want to walk internationally, the Drielandentrein is ideal. This train connects Maastricht and Heerlen with Aachen in Germany and Liège in Belgium. This allows you to combine a walk in the Heuvelland with a hike through the Eifel or the Ardennes.
Setting off well prepared
Good preparation makes your journey more comfortable. Use the NS Journey Planner to plan your trip from door to door. The OV-chipkaart is valid on trains operated by both NS and Arriva. For the Miljoenenlijn you need to buy a separate ticket. Consider taking a folding bike on the train. This makes it easy to cover the distance between a station and a walking route that starts a little further away. At many stations you can also hire e-bikes, a handy option in the hilly terrain.
Planning a walking holiday in South Limburg does not have to be complicated. The train offers a sustainable and relaxing way to reach the most beautiful spots. On the Traveler Tips website you will find more detailed guides on train travel, route planning and the best destinations for an active holiday. Discover more and plan your next trip even smarter.
Frequently asked questions
Maastricht Central, Heerlen and Valkenburg are excellent starting points for hill walks in South Limburg. Valkenburg aan de Geul in particular is ideal for hillside walks, directly from the station. Schin op Geul, with the Miljoenenlijn, also offers a unique combination of train ride and walking. Maastricht Randwyck is perfect for strenuous hikes on the Sint-Pietersberg.
For a comfortable and enjoyable train journey to South Limburg, choose direct connections to stations such as Valkenburg or Schin op Geul, which offer direct access to walking routes. Enjoy the beautiful views during the train ride and consider a nostalgic trip on the Miljoenenlijn through the hilly landscape. Travel light or check the rules for taking a (folding) bike so you can explore the hills in comfort. This ensures a stress-free arrival and makes the journey part of the overall experience.
From train stations in South Limburg such as Maastricht Central, Heerlen and Valkenburg there are various public transport and shared transport options to reach walking areas. Arriva lines (RS18, RE18) connect the stations with the Heuvelland, and there is a Drielandentrein to Aachen and Liège. The Miljoenenlijn offers seasonal steam train and railbus rides with walking packages. In addition, travellers can hire e-bikes at stations for a sustainable way to explore the hills.
Travelling by train to South Limburg for a walking holiday has several key advantages: you travel stress-free and relaxed, without having to worry about parking. You get off directly at stations that are conveniently located for various walking routes in the Heuvelland. You can also fully enjoy the beautiful views along the way and, after a walk, sample a local wine or beer without having to worry about the journey back. Finally, travelling by train contributes to a more sustainable holiday.
The Miljoenenlijn offers special packages including a train ride, lunch and walk, which makes the train journey to South Limburg more attractive for walkers. These seasonal steam train and railbus rides between Schin op Geul and Kerkrade combine nostalgic travel with access to hill walks. In addition, the OV-chipkaart system is convenient for the regular train services.
