Here, in the east of Limburg, the Meuse river is in charge. The Maasland is the most popular cycling region of all regions in Flanders. No wonder, because the very special landscape around the Meuse river is nice and flat. The picturesque Meuse river villages form pleasant resting places along the river.

Cycling, of course

With the Meuse river on your side, you cycle for miles along endless banks. Along the way, you enjoy Maasland's typical nature and accompanying views. Want to peep across the border? Jump on a ferry with your bicycle and before you know it you will be in the Netherlands. On the Belgian side, you step on the foot and bicycle ferry in Uikhoven, Ophoven, and Rotem. The Dutch cycle routes connect seamlessly with the Limburg cycle route network, which is ideal. In this flat region, you can pedal part of the Meuse cycle route, an international route that starts at the source in France and follows the course of the Meuse river to the mouth in the Netherlands.

Hiking in the wild river nature

RivierPark Maasvallei offers walkers a lot of surprising flora and fauna along the banks of the Meuse river. Galloway cattle and Konik horses graze diligently and all kinds of waterfowl fly from puddle to puddle. In the summer you will come across blankets of flowers and herbs such as wild marjoram, thyme and laurel. These herbs are the main ingredient in Maasland's herbal salt. So be sure to stop by one of the regional product shops for some Maasland in your kitchen cabinet. Experienced walkers follow the long-distance hike over a stretch of 132 km.

Konik horses graze on the banks of the Meuse in Dilsen-Stokkem

A paradise for water addicts

The Meuse river and its lakes, river arms, and streams are of course ideal for all kinds of water activities. The active person is spoiled for choice: kayaking, wakeboarding, sailing, and so much more water sports. A quiet boat trip on the Meuse river is possible with the Paep van Meinecom III or take the helm yourself on a whisper boat or StilSloep. Those who own a pleasure boat can moor in two modern marinas. Here is certainly no shortage of water fun.

Canoeing on the Maas in Dilsen-Stokkem

Magical Meuse river villages

The Meuse river seamlessly connects five ancient Meuse villages that not only have in common the river but also a history. Each village also has its own walking area so that you can effortlessly combine nature and culture. The picturesque Oud-Rekem in the south has one of the most authentically preserved village centers in the region. In the heart of Leut, you discover the castle Vilain XIIII with a vast landscape park. Stokkem is the place to be for bird watchers. You can even find kingfishers here. Historical Aldeneik is the source of many legends. The culture walk also takes you to Maaseik town, a cultural pearl with baroque façades and buildings embodying the Maasland Renaissance style. And in Kessenich, up in the north, you can watch Konik horses and Galloways grazing in complete freedom.

View over the water on the church towers of Maaseik