Walking & cycling

Walking and cycling around Simpelveld

Whether you’re lacing up your walking boots or hopping on your bike, from Butterflies you can explore the varied landscape of South Limburg. Step through the gate next to the house and you’ll find yourself straight out in the countryside. By bike, too, green valleys, picturesque villages and stunning views are all within easy reach.

Choose a short stroll, a day trip with a stop for a drink at a terrace along the way, or a challenging mountain bike ride. Below you’ll find our selection of walking and cycling routes. Click on the name for the route map, practical information and download options.

Shorter walks

Miljoenenlijn Loop – Simpelveld | 4 km
A short walk where the historic railway line meets the green countryside. When the steam train is running, you might hear its distinctive whistle. A lovely introduction to the Simpelveld area.
Starting point: Stationstraat, Simpelveld. Difficulty: moderate.

Brunssummerheide – white route NM4 | 4.7 km
Heathland, small ponds and woodland give this walk a completely different atmosphere to the Heuvelland. Follow the black posts with white bands and discover the varied landscape. Before or after the walk, you can stop off at Schrieversheide restaurant.
Starting point: Schaapskooiweg, Heerlen, near Schrieversheide restaurant. Difficulty: easy.

Geuldal Route Epen and Mechelen | 5.4 km
Walk from Epen along the meandering River Geul, past green banks and rolling hills. Along the way, you’ll pass the Volmolen. A lovely route for taking in the scenery at a leisurely pace, with the chance to relax on a terrace in the village afterwards.
Starting point: Kapelaan Houbenstraat, Epen. Difficulty: moderate.

A slightly longer walk

From Vijlen to the Vijlenerbos | 7 km
From Vijlen, you head into the woods, with steep slopes, clearings and beautiful views. The changes in elevation make this a challenging walk: take your time and enjoy the contrast between woodland and open countryside along the way.
Starting point: Mamelissenweg / Vijlenberg, Vijlen. Difficulty: difficult.

Huls Plateau – Simpelveld | 8 km
Discover the rural surroundings north of Simpelveld. On the high plateau, you’ll look out over the village and walk past fields and farmland. A lovely choice for those who love open landscapes and panoramic views.
Starting point: Sint Remigiusstraat 32, Simpelveld. Difficulty: difficult.

Miljoenenlijn Route – Simpelveld | 12.7 km
Spend a little longer in your walking boots for this walk through the hilly landscape around the Miljoenenlijn. Following the walking junction points, you’ll discover ever-changing views of the railway and the surrounding area. With a bit of luck, you might spot the historic train passing by along the way.
Starting point: Stationstraat, Simpelveld. Difficulty: moderate.

Cycling through the Heuvelland

Around the Bocholtz–Simpelveld plateau | 23.1 km
Discover the rolling countryside between the Selzerbeek and the Eyserbeek. Cycling through villages such as Eys, Wahlwiller and Nijswiller, you’ll pass meadows, old farmhouses and picturesque village scenes. Take time out along the way for lunch or a coffee with a slice of Limburg vlaai.
Starting point: Heiweg 88, Bocholtz. Difficulty: moderate. Route: via cycle junctions.

Cycling through Roman Simpelveld and Voerendaal | 52.3 km
Take a day trip through a landscape with a remarkable past. This route takes you through Simpelveld and Voerendaal, where archaeological finds serve as a reminder of Roman times. A lovely combination of cycling, scenery and history, with plenty of reasons to stop off now and then.
Starting point: Miljoenenlijn station, Stationstraat 22, Simpelveld. Difficulty: moderate.

Mergelland Cycle Route – Southern Loop | 63.4 km
A day full of Limburg views! This varied cycle route takes you past half-timbered houses, castles and rolling hills. Along the way, you’ll discover, amongst other things, the Three-Country Point and the St. Martinus vineyard near Vijlen. Take the time for a stop and enjoy the scenery. Due to the many climbs and descents, an e-bike is recommended.
Starting point: Mosaqua car park, Landsraderweg 11, Gulpen. Difficulty: difficult. Route: via cycle junctions.

Challenging mountain biking

Parkstad Brunssummerheide MTB route | 18.4 km
For those who enjoy off-road cycling, the Brunssummerheide offers a challenging ride through woodland, heathland and sandy terrain. Steep gradients and varied trails make this a challenging route for experienced mountain bikers. Follow the signposted MTB route and enjoy this unique nature reserve along the way.
Starting point: Schaapskooiweg 99, Heerlen. Difficulty: difficult, red classification. Suitable for: mountain bikes.

Well prepared for the ride

The distances are measured from the stated starting points, not from Butterflies. The difficulty ratings are taken from Visit Zuid-Limburg. Due to the changes in elevation, even a short route can be quite strenuous.

Wear sturdy walking boots and check the latest route information before setting off. After rain, unpaved paths may be muddy. When cycling, be prepared for climbs and descents; an e-bike will make the hills a little more manageable. For the mountain bike route, choose a suitable mountain bike and wear a helmet.

Plenty of time for a walking and cycling holiday

Why try to see everything in just one weekend? Stay for a week and alternate walks and cycle rides with a day out or a quiet day at the house.

After an active day, it’s lovely to come home to Butterflies. Relax on one of the three terraces or in the cosy living room. You can store your bikes (max. 3) in the lockable bike shed. With a fully equipped kitchen, dishwasher and washing machine, you’ll have everything you need for a longer stay. The house accommodates up to five people, but you’re also very welcome as a couple.

Check the availability and price of Butterflies and plan your walking and cycling holiday in South Limburg.