What a celebration in Vilt! Walking Club Vilt is turning 70, and they are marking it the way they know best: with a special anniversary hike for everyone who loves lacing up their walking shoes. 🎉
Every ten years the club pulls out all the stops, and this year is one of those years. The hike is their way of saying thanks to all the walkers and giving them something extra special.
Here is what was on offer:
- A traditional signposted route of almost 9.5 kilometres
- A digital version with fun assignments for the kids
- A paper map option for those who prefer the old-school way
Nearly 500 walkers joined in, including many from other walking clubs across Limburg and beyond. One group of 67 even travelled all the way down from the north to enjoy South Limburg. The real treat? Walkers got to pass through the Geulhem caves, a spot usually only open to the public during the Christmas season. Deep inside, there is a gallery with portraits linked to the Dutch Royal Family. Afterwards, everyone enjoyed a lovely pastry and a cosy get-together in Valkenburg. 🚶♂️
The Geulhem caves (Geulhemergroeve) in Berg en Terblijt are centuries-old marl quarries, normally only open to the public during the Christmas period. Deep inside lies a remarkable gallery featuring portraits and references to the Dutch Royal House, starting with William of Orange in 1584 and continuing through to the current king. This underground art gallery was hand-carved into the marl walls by local artists and represents a unique piece of Limburg heritage that walkers rarely get the chance to experience. The Heuvelland Four-Day Walk, also organised by this club, remains the biggest event on their yearly calendar.
Source: Municipality
