Natuurmonumenten Visitor Centre South Limburg

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 beautiful. Since 1995, Natuurmonumenten has been the proud manager of this unique nature reserve.
"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 journey of millions of years in time. I realize that I am walking in the former habitat of the Mosasaurs."

On the road with the forester
Of course, it is 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 forester of Natuurmonumenten, you will visit places that are normally not accessible and you will learn all about this special area.
Discover the life of the past and present at the ENCI quarry. Go in search of rare plants and animals characteristic of this time of the year with a forest ranger during the Stroll with the forester. Or walk along with the forester, while you listen to stories about the rich history and taste and experience the past at the special buildings and places on the Sint-Pietersberg during the historical excursion.
Out and about with the kids
An exciting family tour or a trip with the forest ranger? For every child there is a fun activity of OERRR to do on the Sint-Pietersberg. You can also celebrate your birthday there, both above ground with the Forester bootcamp party and underground with the children's parties of Maastricht Underground.
On your own
Beautiful routes
At the head of the mountain is Fort Sint Pieter, an impressive defensive structure for the city of Maastricht. Here you have a great view of Maastricht. Take a look at the Oehoe's valley at the kiekoet, wander along the heritage on the Sint-Pietersberg or spot butterflies in the Poppelmondedal.
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 on a daily basis. 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.
Eagle owl
During your visit, try to discover 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 heard and seen well. Go to the Kiekoet an hour before sunset and you might get lucky!
In August and September, Natuurmonumenten organises exclusive area excursions in this former quarry section. Perhaps you will spot the most striking inhabitant of the quarry area up close.
Viewpoint
Magisterial viewpoint over the quarry and the Sint-Pietersberg area. The viewpoint is always accessible between sunrise and sunset. The staircase to the quarry area has 215 steps. Dogs are not allowed on the stairs and in the quarry.
Visitor Centre on Wheels
Foresters will tell you more about the area, the special features, the walking routes and all the activities. You can also go there for a nice souvenir as a memento of your visit. More information about the Visitor Centre on Wheels and where they can be found can be found on the website.

Tourist Board South Limburg (Visit Zuid-Limburg)