Ultimate summer feeling: picnics in Maastricht
Enjoying summer in Maastricht with a picnic basket full. Mais oui! That sounds like a great idea. From the Stadspark to the Sint Pietersberg, there are so many spots of green in Maastricht where you can enjoy local delicacies. Where exactly? We tell you in this blog about picnics in Maastricht, with the best tips for scoring a basket full of local produce.
1. City Park
Maastricht City Park is not just any city park. It sits proudly on the River Maas and runs almost all the way to the Sint Pietersberg. It leans quietly against the historic city centre, allowing you to admire and climb a lot of old city walls. The park often serves as the backdrop for various events, but most of the time it is quiet. Consider, for instance, the grassy field right in front of the old city wall, at the High Bridge. Also known as the field 'by the cannons'. But a little further on, near the fountain, it is also blissful, there is even a small playground for the kids! Also highly recommended: walk via the birdcage along the Jeker and the Tapijnkazerne. Plenty of places to stop for a picnic.
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City Park
A romantic picnic, a culinary event, sports activities or just a nice walk. Maastricht City Park has it all. More info on Stadspark
2. The Griend
A place for urban citytrippers. The Griend is mostly frequented by hip & sporty locals and students. There is a fantastic skate park (an architectural masterpiece) with a wide lawn overlooking the river Maas. Partly because of the view of Landbouwbelang (creative breeding ground on the other side of the Maas) and the accompanying street art, the Griend park gets that urban feel. A great place to have a picnic and meet special people.
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Friend Park
Those who enjoy skating, longboarding or skateboarding can indulge in the Griendpark, also known as the Griend. Those who prefer a picnic can settle down in the greenery along the Maas. This urban park is located on the edge of the city centre in the Sint-Maartenspoort district. More info on Griendpark
4. St Peter's
Want to get really into nature? Then walk (about 15 minutes from the Vrijthof) to the Sint Pietersberg. After the steep climb, you will find an oasis of calm. Walk a little further and you can admire the viewpoint of the ENCI Quarry. Take the imposing staircase into the quarry and walk towards a special part of Maastricht. Both on the mountain and in the quarry you will find numerous places to picnic. Where will you end up?
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View platform ENCI quarry
From the viewing platform you look into the ENCI quarry and see the lakes with their deep azure colour, which is due to the reflection of the blue sky in the depth of the water. More info on View platform ENCI quarry
And now... fill your basket!
So, you've been able to get your bearings on the nicest picnic spots in town. Don't forget the most important thing: a richly filled basket with the tastiest products (from the region). So where can you go?
Turquoise Mosae Gusto.
The basement of Mosae Forum shopping centre is the place for a basket full of local dishes. In that same basement, you will find Turquoise Mosae Gusto, a Turkish deli selling a variety of delicacies from fresh fruit to olives and dips.
Marres Kitchen
At Marres Kitchen (culinary venture of Marres House for Contemporary Culture), fill your basket with Mediterranean delicacies. Whether you are vegan or typical bourgondian.
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Marres Kitchen
Marres' historic house, not to mention that gorgeous city garden, deserves a place where you can have a cup of coffee and eat something tasty too. More info on Marres Kitchen
Le Salonard
More in the mood for French specialities? Then visit Le Salonard- think rustic baguettes, buttery cheeses and fine local wines.
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Le Salonard
Step inside Le Salonard and discover a world of artisanal cheeses, fine wines and authentic flavours that will tantalise your senses. More info on Le Salonard
A la Paco
At A La Paco, you get unprecedented Spanish specialities. From a top Serrano ham sandwich to a variety of empanadas.
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A la Paco
Delicatessen where you can taste the flavours of Spain, from fresh tapas and cheeses to authentic charcuterie and olives. Located in the heart of the city, a perfect stop for lovers of Spanish cuisine! More info on A la Paco