Mechelen, Heerlen and Voerendaal

Gurgling brooks define the various parts of the gently undulating plateaus and stream valleys that make up Limburg. From the hilltops, you can see magnificent panoramas; the ultimate reward when you have made your way through the rolling landscape to higher ground. As you cycle back down, your hair flutters in the wind, and you discover that you can also wander delightfully in the lowlands. You pass through bustling Heerlen, one of the largest municipalities in Limburg. Historically, Heerlen was fairly isolated due to the lack of good access and exit roads, leaving the city hidden among the hills. The city was self-sufficient and derived much of its income from mining. It was not until 1896 that Heerlen acquired a station and a connection to the Dutch railway network, opening up the city to the surrounding area. Thanks to flourishing trade, the small town has grown into the city it is today. If you really want a cycling weekend getaway, book an overnight stay at Hotel Hoeve De Plei, located at the start of the cycling route. You can park your car here for free and receive a warm welcome. It is lovely to sit on the terrace in the sun after your bike ride and enjoy the end of your day with a refreshing beer or a fragrant cup of tea. Another nice touch is that the hotel room you stay in is uniquely decorated; no two rooms in the atmospheric farmhouse are the same. After a good night's rest, you will be fully fit to cycle route 123246 as well, which also starts from this hotel and passes by the most beautiful spots in South Limburg.