Brunssum, Heerlen and Spaubeek

Larger cities in Limburg are buzzing with a lively atmosphere! Heerlen is one of the largest municipalities in the southernmost province of the Netherlands. Historically, Heerlen was relatively isolated due to the lack of good transport links, and the city was therefore nestled among the hills. The city was self-sufficient and derived significant income from mining. It wasn't until 1896 that Heerlen acquired a station and a connection to the Dutch rail network, opening up the city to the surrounding area. Flourishing trade helped the town grow into the city it is today. The tour, which begins at Hotel Edenpark, takes you past historic buildings, such as Meezenbroeck Castle. Although the main building was demolished around 1935, there's still much to see. Because the castle was originally built in the Caumerbeek valley, the water could be dammed up and filled the moats and two southern fishponds. These water features now form the centerpiece of a neighborhood park. The still-existing castle farm, like the main building, was surrounded by a moat, but because many buildings were demolished and later reconstructed, the gatehouse is the only remaining historical element. You then pass the castle ruins of the Eyckholt estate. A castle once stood on the site, along with a farm and a watermill. The first mention of the castle dates back to 1385, when it appears on a property deed. In 1736, the farm and its barn burned down, marking the beginning of Eyckholt's decline. A new farm was built, but the castle ceased to serve as a residential property, and after the fire, it was used as a warehouse. Around 1760, the castle was demolished, and the farm was demolished in 1925. What you can still recognize in the ruins are the defensive wall from the thirteenth or fourteenth century and a square tower from the fourteenth century. The castle ruins and the remains of the farm are part of the Terworm estate and form an element of the accompanying landscape park. Terworm estate also boasts a castle of the same name. The original castle was built in the fifteenth century, but the current complex dates from the seventeenth century. During the twentieth century, the castle fell into serious disrepair until it was purchased by the Van der Valk hotel chain, which restored it and established a hotel there. This brings you back to Hotel Edenpark. We recommend booking a room at this charming family-run hotel. The next day, you can enjoy a day of shopping in Brunssum or Heerlen, or explore our other cycling route (126031), which starts at the hotel and takes you through the surrounding area. Enjoy a delicious dinner in the charming restaurant and then end your day relaxing with a stroll through the city park, which is directly opposite the hotel.