Noorbeek (population 1100) lies in the hilly area below Maastricht, on the South-Limburg Mergelland route, on the border of the Voerstreek (a Flemish enclave in Belgium). It is a lovely village, off the beaten track, with countless picturesque timber-frame houses, meadows and woods.
The rolling countryside around Noorbeek is attractive for hikers and cyclists. From the hotel gardens you can take several paths straight into Noordal national park. A stream called the 'Noor' has its source in Noorbeek. A church dating back to the 13th century stands in the centre of Noorbeek. It is open every day - entrance is free and in the summer free organ concerts are held there.
Something that makes Noorbeek special is its centuries-old folklore. The holidays still celebrated include St Bridget's Day (planting of a celebratory pine tree) on the second Saturday after Easter, the shooting championship of the Marksmen's Guild "Koningsvogelschieten" on Ascension Day and the Blessed Sacrament procession on the third Sunday after Whitsun. Guests who would like to experience living history in this rolling landscape are more than welcome to visit on these special days.
Noorbeek lies near Maastricht (15 km), Valkenburg (10 km) and Aix-la-Chapelle (20 km). Due to its southerly position, Noorbeek was the first municipality to be liberated at the end of WWII.
Tips for tourists
