Looking for a cycling route full of stunning views and marl beauty? Explore the marl landscape of Riemst and the Sint-Pietersberg with the "Korte Mergellus".
This 24-kilometer route takes you along marl cliffs, both above and below ground quarries, and valuable nature reserves.
A landscape shaped by marl
Immerse yourself in what makes Riemst so special: its marl landscape. Along the Albert Canal, the marl cliffs rise high above you. After a detour through Maastricht and the Walloon region of Bassenge, you'll cycle through Kanne, home to the famous Kanne Caves. This underground network is definitely worth a visit.
The marl is also visible above ground. In the picturesque village of Kanne and the southern districts of Maastricht, you’ll find many marl buildings, including Huize Poswick, Chateau Neercanne, and the Apostelhoeve.
Cycling through three regions
This route takes you through Flanders, Wallonia, and the Netherlands. Start and end in Riemst, pass the impressive ENCI quarry in Maastricht, and enjoy a relaxing stretch along the Maas River.
Both in the Netherlands and Wallonia, forts are on the route. In Maastricht, you’ll pass Fort Sint-Pieter, a remnant of the city’s historic defenses, with a view of the city center. On the Walloon side, you’ll find the Fort of Eben-Emael, an underground fort carved into the marl layer.
A challenging but beautiful ride
The hilly terrain of the Sint-Pietersberg results in some elevation gain, but don’t let that put you off. The reward: panoramic views, above-ground and underground wonders, and a constantly changing landscape that surprises, even on such a short ride.
Ready to go?
Download the route digitally or as a printable map. Start at the Bridge of Vroenhoven and discover for yourself how uniquely beautiful the landscape around Riemst is!
