Sint-Pietersberg nature reserve The rare limestone slopes and the unique microclimate make the area a unique butterfly, eagle owl, bat and plant paradise. Even though it's not actually a mountain, the employees call it that. That's how it feels when you walk here.
This southernmost part of the Netherlands, located between Maastricht and Belgium, is almost un-Dutch in beauty. Natuurmonumenten has been the proud manager of this unique nature reserve since 1995.
"I regularly climb the Sint-Pietersberg. Sometimes I meet the shepherd with his flock: the sheep surround me and I become part of the flock. On the viewing platform I enjoy the view of the marl quarry and the green-blue water that surprises me again and again I descend the stairs and begin the time journey of millions of years. I realize that I am walking in the former habitat of the Mosasaurs."
On the road with the forester
It is of course healthy to take a brisk walk on your own. It is even more fun to participate in one of the activities that the forest rangers organize, for young and old. Together with the ranger from Natuurmonumenten you will visit places that are normally inaccessible and learn all about this special area.
Discover life past and present in the ENCI quarry. Go with a forester in search of rare plants and animals characteristic of this period of the year during Strolling with the forester. Or walk with the ranger while you listen to stories about the rich history and taste and experience the past at the special buildings and places on Sint-Pietersberg during the historical excursion.
Out and about with the kids
An exciting family trip or going out with the ranger? There is a fun OERRR activity for every child to do on Sint-Pietersberg. You can also celebrate your birthday there, both above ground with the Boswachterbootcamp party and underground with the children's parties of Maastricht Underground.
On the road yourself
Beautiful routes
At the head of the mountain is Fort Sint Pieter, an impressive defense structure for the city of Maastricht. Here you have a great view of Maastricht. Take a look at the eagle owl valley at the eagle owl, wander past the heritage on the Sint-Pietersberg or spot butterflies in the Poppelmonde valley.
From the viewing platform (yellow route) you have a breathtaking view of the ENCI quarry. There are a number of walking, cycling and MTB routes across the Sint-Pietersberg that you can use every day. Or pick up the extensive area brochure with all routes at the Maastricht Underground ticket shop in Fort Sint Pieter. They are open daily. The routes offer something for everyone.
Oooh
During your visit, try to spot the rare eagle owl from the bird watching spot De Kiekoet on the Van Schaikweg. Since 1997, this largest owl in Europe has been breeding in the so-called Eagle Owl Valley. In the winter months the eagle owls can be clearly heard and seen. Go to the Kiekoet an hour before sunset and you might be lucky!
Natuurmonumenten organizes exclusive area excursions in this former quarry section in August and September. You may then spot the most striking resident of the quarry area up close.
Viewpoint
Magisterial viewpoint over the quarry and the surrounding area of Sint-Pietersberg. The viewpoint is always accessible between sunrise and sunset. The stairs to the quarry area have 215 steps. Dogs are not allowed on the stairs and in the quarry.
Visitor Center on Wheels
Forest rangers will tell you more about the area, its special features, the walking routes and all activities. You can also get a nice souvenir there as a memento of your visit. More information about the Visitor Center on Wheels and where they can be found can be found on the website.
This text has been automatically translated using an online translation service.
