71 - 42 - 97 - 42 - 89 - 92 - 65 - 61 - 76 - 10 - 60 - 22 - 72 - 91 - 74 - 71

From Abbey to Mine Stone Mountain (loop 1) - Kerkrade

Step back in time and discover the rich mining history of Kerkrade and its surroundings during this walking route. Beneath your feet lies a history that began in the twelfth century, when coal was extracted here. After the mine closures in the 1970s, nature reclaimed its space. This makes this route a unique combination of culture, heritage, and greenery.

You can choose from two loops. Loop 1 (8.9 km) starts at Abbey Rolduc and takes you past the market with d'r Joep, through the city park, to Erenstein Castle and the green Anstel Valley. Loop 2 (11.3 km) starts at the Botanical Garden and takes you through the Strijthagerbeek Valley, past Strijthagen Castle and the notable Wilhelminaberg.

Along the way, you'll discover how the landscape has evolved from a mining area to a diverse walking region full of nature and sights. A route that beautifully connects the past and present and shows how versatile South Limburg is.