Mechelen, Heerlen and Voerendaal

Gurgling streams define the different parts of the gently undulating plateaus and stream valleys that make up Limburg. On the tops of the hills you can see beautiful panoramas; the ultimate reward when you have made your way through the rolling landscape to higher ground. When you cycle back down, your hair will blow in the wind and you will discover that you can also wander in the lowlands. You pass through bustling Heerlen, one of the largest municipalities in Limburg. Traditionally, Heerlen was fairly isolated because there were no good supply and drainage roads and the city was therefore hidden between the hills. The city was self-sufficient and derived a lot of income from mining. It was not until 1896 that Heerlen received a station and connection to the Dutch rail network, making the city accessible to the surrounding area. Thanks to a flourishing trade, the town has grown into the city it is today. If you really want a cycling weekend away, book an overnight stay at Hotel Hoeve De Plei, which is at the start of the cycling route. You can park your car here for free and receive a warm welcome. After your bike ride, it is wonderful to sit on the terrace in the sun and enjoy your day with a fresh beer or a fragrant cup of tea. It is also nice that the hotel room you stay in is uniquely decorated; no room in the attractive farm is the same. After a good night's sleep, you will be completely fit to cycle route 123246, which also goes from this hotel to the most beautiful places in South Limburg.