Discover Limburg | A Visitor's Introduction to Limburg, Belgium

Why is Limburg Worth a Visit?

Limburg is a region where the pace slows, and the natural beauty takes centre stage. Its reputation as Belgium’s top cycling destination is well-earned, thanks to its flat terrain, scenic routes, and innovative attractions like the “Cycling Through Water” and “Cycling Through Trees” experiences. History lovers will enjoy exploring its medieval cities, charming villages, and historic landmarks, such as the abbeys and castles that dot the landscape. Limburg’s gastronomy, featuring regional specialities like Limburgse vlaai (a fruit tart), paired with local beers, provides a delicious taste of the province’s identity.

Limburg Highlights: Things to See and Do in Limburg

Hasselt

Hasselt, the capital of Limburg, is known as the "City of Taste" for its culinary delights and fashionable boutiques. The city is home to the Jenever Museum, which celebrates the traditional Flemish juniper-based spirit, and the serene Japanese Garden, the largest of its kind in Europe. Hasselt’s compact centre is perfect for strolling, with charming streets like Demerstraat and Kapelstraat lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Cycling Through Water

Limburg’s cycling infrastructure is legendary, and the “Cycling Through Water” experience in Bokrijk is a standout attraction. This innovative bike path takes you through a pond, with the water level at eye height on either side. It’s an unforgettable ride that combines nature, art, and engineering.

Bokrijk Open-Air Museum

Bokrijk, near Genk, is a living museum that transports visitors back in time with its reconstructed historic buildings and costumed actors. The museum showcases rural Flemish life from the 17th to the 20th centuries, complete with traditional crafts and demonstrations. The surrounding parklands and cycling routes make it an excellent family destination.

Cycling Through Trees

Another unique cycling experience in Limburg is the “Cycling Through Trees” path in Bosland. This elevated circular trail rises gradually into the treetops, offering a bird’s-eye view of the forest and a magical connection with nature.

Tongeren

Tongeren, Belgium’s oldest city, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Its Roman roots are evident in its archaeological sites and the Gallo-Roman Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the region’s ancient past. The city is also home to a stunning Gothic basilica, the Basilica of Our Lady, and its famous Sunday antiques market, which attracts treasure hunters from across Europe.

Alden Biesen Castle

Alden Biesen is a magnificent 16th-century castle in Bilzen that once served as the headquarters of the Teutonic Order. Today, the estate hosts cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions. Its beautifully landscaped gardens and surrounding countryside make it a peaceful and picturesque destination.

Hoge Kempen National Park

Hoge Kempen National Park is Belgium’s only national park, offering a diverse landscape of heathlands, forests, and lakes. It’s a paradise for hikers and cyclists, with well-marked trails that wind through scenic terrain. The park’s visitor centres provide maps and information about its flora, fauna, and unique geological features.

Maasmechelen Village

For those who enjoy shopping, Maasmechelen Village is an upscale outlet centre offering designer brands at discounted prices. Located near the River Meuse, it’s a great place to combine retail therapy with a day trip to the surrounding natural areas.

Sint-Truiden

Sint-Truiden is the heart of Limburg’s fruit-growing region, known for its sprawling orchards and seasonal blossoms. In spring, the Haspengouw region bursts into colour as cherry, apple, and pear trees bloom, attracting visitors to scenic cycling and walking tours. The town itself boasts historic landmarks like the Begijnhof and the Church of Saint Martin.

Local Breweries

Limburg’s breweries are a testament to Belgium’s rich beer culture. Visit the Ter Dolen Brewery in Houthalen-Helchteren to enjoy a pint in the courtyard of a historic castle or the Wilderen Brewery near Sint-Truiden to sample craft beers and spirits.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Limburg is easily accessible by train, car, or bike. Hasselt and Genk are the region’s main transport hubs, with direct train connections to Brussels, Antwerp, and other major cities. For drivers, Limburg’s location near the E313 and E314 motorways makes it convenient to reach from anywhere in Belgium or neighbouring countries.

Getting Around

Cycling is the best way to explore Limburg, thanks to its extensive and well-maintained bike network. The region’s numbered junction system allows cyclists to plan routes easily. For longer distances, trains and buses provide convenient connections between towns and attractions.

Dining

Limburg’s culinary scene is a highlight of any visit. Try local dishes like Limburgse vlaai, a fruit tart that’s a regional speciality, or enjoy hearty Flemish stews paired with locally brewed beers. Restaurants in Hasselt, Sint-Truiden, and other towns offer a mix of traditional and modern Belgian cuisine, often featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Best Time to Visit

Spring is an ideal time to visit Limburg, especially during the fruit blossom season in Haspengouw. Summer offers warm weather for outdoor activities, while autumn is perfect for cycling and hiking amid colourful foliage. Winter brings festive charm to towns like Hasselt, which hosts a popular Christmas market.

Events and Festivals

Limburg hosts a variety of events throughout the year. The Blossom Festival in Sint-Truiden celebrates the region’s fruit orchards in spring. Hasselt’s Jenever Festival in October is a tribute to the region’s famous juniper-based spirit. Tongeren’s antiques market every Sunday is a year-round highlight.

Exploring Beyond Limburg

Limburg’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby regions. Maastricht, in the Netherlands, is just a short drive or bike ride away and offers a lively mix of history and culture. The Ardennes, with its rolling hills and outdoor activities, is another fantastic option for a day trip. For urban explorers, Brussels and Antwerp are within easy reach by train.