See the hills of holland!

“Heuvelland” is a Dutch term that translates to “Hill Country” or “Hilly Region” in English. The Heuvelland Dutch Hills in Limburg is often used to describe regions in the southern part of the Netherlands. It is particularly region in the province of Limburg. Heuvelland refers to areas characterized by rolling hills. Strange for a country known for its generally flat topography. Our editor Laura Swift from MAASTRICHT MAGAZINE ONLINE climbs the hills between local cheese and chutney makers!

Heuvelland Dutch Hills | Little Switzerland

One of the most famous Heuvelland regions in the Netherlands is South Limburg (Zuid-Limburg). South Limburg is known for its picturesque landscapes, vineyards, and charming villages nestled in the hills with cherry trees. It is a popular destination for tourists who enjoy hiking, cycling ( rent a bicycle ), and exploring the countryside. The Mergelland route in Heuvelland is a famous touristic path to follow! And you can experience even a skywalk!

The term “Heuvelland” is also used in other Dutch-speaking regions, such as parts of Belgium, where there are hilly areas. These regions often have unique cultural, historical, and natural characteristics due to their distinctive landscapes.

Not only in Limburg | Dutch Hills!

The Netherlands is known for its generally flat, low-lying landscape and windmills, and it doesn’t have what many people would consider typical hills or mountains. However, there are a few areas within the country where you can find some gentle hills, which might be considered “typical Dutch hills” within the context of the Netherlands. Here are a couple of notable regions:

South Limburg (Zuid-Limburg)

This region in the province of Limburg is the most famous for its hilly terrain in the Netherlands. While the Heuvelland Dutch Hills in Limburg are not high by international standards, they do stand out in a country known for its flatness. The highest point in the Netherlands, Vaalserberg and Drielandenpunt is located in this region and reaches an elevation of about 322.4 meters (1,058 feet) above sea level. Another high point is Watchtower uitkijktoren Mesch.

Veluwezoom

Located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, the Veluwezoom is a national park that features some hilly terrain. While the hills here are not as prominent as those in South Limburg, they still offer some elevation changes and beautiful natural scenery.

Utrechtse Heuvelrug

This is another hilly area in the Netherlands, situated in the province of Utrecht. While the hills are not extremely high, they provide some relief from the otherwise flat landscape of the country. The Utrechtse Heuvelrug is known for its forests, heathlands, and historical sites.

Things to do in Heuvelland Limburg!

Here are some things you can do in these hilly areas:

Hiking. The Dutch hills, particularly in South Limburg, offer a network of hiking trails that wind through beautiful countryside, forests, and charming villages. Popular routes include the Pieterpad, a long-distance trail that stretches from the northern to the southern Netherlands, passing through hilly terrain. Another famous route is Mergelland Route.

Cycling. Cycling is a popular activity in the Dutch hills. You can rent a bike or bring your own to explore the rolling landscapes. There are designated cycling routes that cater to both leisurely riders and more experienced cyclists. Mountain Biking. For more adventurous cyclists, some hilly areas provide mountain biking opportunities. Trails with varying levels of difficulty can be fun in hilly regions like South Limburg. Even the famous Amstel Gold Race takes place in Heuvelland.

Scenic Drives. Take a scenic drive through the hilly landscapes to enjoy picturesque views and visit quaint villages like Valkenburg. The hills offer unique viewpoints like Watchtower Mesch and winding roads.

Wine and more!

Wine Tasting. In South Limburg, you can visit vineyards and enjoy wine tastings. The region is known for producing Dutch wines, particularly white wines and can be tasted in local winebars. Cultural Exploration. Explore historical towns and cultural sites, like Mamelis Abbey and Val-Dieu in Aubel, that are scattered throughout the hills. Visit castles, churches and abbeys, and museums or oldest cemetery of Limburg to learn about the history and culture of the region. Nature Reserves. Explore nature reserves and wildlife areas within the hilly regions. Make a biking tour in ENCI area. The diverse landscapes support various flora and fauna, making it a great place for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts. Or you simply visit Mondo Verde in Kerkrade or the famous GaiaZoo!

Relaxation. The hilly regions offer a quieter, more serene atmosphere compared to urban areas like Outlet center in Roermond or Maasmechelen. Relax and unwind in the tranquil surroundings. Winter Sports. In winter, when there is enough snowfall, some Dutch hills offer opportunities for cross-country skiing and sledding. Year around you can even head out for Snow world in Landraaf for snow boarding!

Wellness and Spas. Some hotels and resorts in the Dutch hills offer wellness facilities and spas where you can relax and rejuvenate.