The Groene Loper: here's what to do
Once upon a time, cars raced along the A2 straight through Maastricht. In 2016, the motorway went underground, freeing up a three-kilometre stretch of land. This is now the Groene Loper, a green promenade connecting the districts of Wyckerpoort, Scharn and Wittevrouwenveld. Here you can enjoy peace and quiet, within walking distance of the bustling city centre. We list the best activities and places along the Groene Loper.
1. Stroll along the Groene Loper
Taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Relax strolling among the trees of the Groene Loper. The car-free boulevard is about two kilometres long; in an hour you can walk back and forth. Along the green avenue are benches where you can enjoy people-watching with a locally scored treat.
2. Stroll through Maastricht's Vrijheidspark
For a walk in greenery, Vrijheidspark Maastricht is the place to be. Get off the Groene Loper and stroll along the green field and colourful flower gardens. Or how about soaking up Mediterranean fragrances in the herb garden? Neighbourhood volunteers maintain the city garden and organise activities such as a volleyball tournament and sports lessons. For children, there is the Mosasaurus climbing frame. The steel and wooden skeleton of the prehistoric sea reptile was inspired by archaeological finds in the marl layers around Maastricht. Those who love graffiti can also feast their eyes here.
3. Visit the Limburg Liberation Monument
The Limburg Liberation Monument stands on Koningsplein. The sculpture group commemorates the festive liberation of Limburg at the end of World War II. An American soldier making a V-sign with his fingers refers to the victory over German occupation. A man with a hammer symbolises reconstruction and a child leaning against a mother represents affection. Each person in this artwork by renowned Limburg visual artist Charles Eyck tells a story. Ceremonies take place at the sculpture on National Remembrance Day and 13 September, the date the Allies reached the city.
4. Get pastries at Patisserie Lemmens or Patisserie Noblesse
If you can enjoy Burgundy anywhere in the Netherlands, it is in Maastricht. On the Groene Loper, too, you can spoil yourself with Limburg delicacies. For example, get a pastry at Patisserie Lemmens or Patisserie Noblesse. At Patisserie Lemmens, the cakes are edible works of art with exotic names. Take the 'strawberry saint honoré', a puff pastry base filled with crème légère, decorated with puffs of crème patissière with a caramel fondant topping and fresh strawberries with whipped cream. Or choose another speciality, adapted to the season, from the showcase. For classic Limburg pastries, Patisserie Noblesse is the place to be. Here you can order the most delicious Limburg flans and waffles.
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Patisserie Noblesse
At patisserie Noblesse, craftsmanship is paramount. Traditional flans, bread and pastries are prepared according to an old recipe every day. More about Patisserie Noblesse
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Patisserie Peter Lemmens Scharn
High-end patisserie and delicious local pastries. Find out more about Patisserie Peter Lemmens Scharn
5. Picnic in Geusseltpark
Near the Groene Loper is the Geusseltpark. A perfect base for a picnic. Bring a rug and pick a nice spot on the large lawn. On hot, sunny days, you can cool off in the shade of a large tree. Or settle down on one of the picnic benches, where a well-stocked basket of local delicacies will get you through the day. In the distance, you can see the 17th-century Geusselt Castle, with its striking little tower.
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Geusselt Castle and Park
The field near Geusselt Castle is used for various events. More info about Field near Geusselt Castle
6. See the Angel of Maastricht
On a tall stone plinth, Maastricht's New Angel proudly and jauntily rises above the Groene Loper. The bronze sculpture by artist Wil van der Laan is almost three metres high and weighs a total of 23.5 tonnes. With spread wings, the angel rises from the swirling Maas. Exactly on the dividing line between two districts, as a symbolic connection. Since 2018, the impressive statue can be found at the intersection with Scharnerweg. Together with the star, the angel is one of the symbols of the city of Maastricht.
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New Angel of Maastricht
The New Angel of Maastricht is an impressive statue on the Groene Loper. It stands at the roundabout with Scharnerweg and forms the link between the districts of Scharn, Wyckerpoort and Wittevrouweveld. More info on Nieuwe Engel van Maastricht
7. Running around the Green Ribbon
Are you sporty and prefer to explore the Green Ribbon with a run? You can do that too. The promenade is part of the Groene Loper Run every year. For distances of five and ten kilometres or even a half marathon, you run a course towards the estate and kasteel De Hoogenweerth or Bunde. The Groene Loper returns several times on the route. Start for a seven-kilometre distance at the Geusselt Stadium. To then arrive at the Geusseltpark via an alternative route.
8. Enjoy a tasty lunch
After some kilometres in the legs, treat yourself to lunch. Take a seat at a table or sink into the beach chairs at Restobar MAMA. A child-friendly place, there is plenty of playtime due to an adjacent playground. From Italian pastas with a twist to Norwegian toast with salmon and avocado cream. And Dutch poffertjes or American pancakes for the little ones. There is something for everyone. You can also enjoy a delicious lunch with the artisanal local products of Talentino de Greune Luiper Stadstaverne & Brooderie across the street. Here, enthusiastic talents are ready with tasty baked goods and dishes. Order a filled sandwich, sandwich with soup or enjoy a piece of flan with a view of the Greune Luiper .
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Restobar MAMA
At Restobar MAMA in Maastricht, you will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, where you can sample surprising dishes and authentic flavours that will make you feel right at home. More info about Restobar MAMA
9. Gastronomic experience at Farèn
For a special gastronomic experience, head to Farèn, at the head of Frankenstraat. As soon as you step inside, the scents of oriental herbs and spices are already wafting towards you. Owner and chef Farèn Sallak prepares the tastiest Persian dishes. From salads and vegetarian delicacies to authentic meat and fish specialities. All selected with great care and love. Because food is what fuels your body, according to Farèn's philosophy. In summer, you can also enjoy a Persian meal on the terrace right outside the door or on the greening of the Wittevrouwenplein. Also good to know: the kitchen is halal certified.
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Farèn
Persian restaurant Farèn is the Maastricht hotspot located on the Groene Loper, just outside the city centre. Be sure to have a quick look at this rapidly evolving area and then settle down for a bite to eat or a drink! More info on Farèn
10. Play a game of padel
In the mood for action? For the real sports fanatic, a game of padel also beckons. At Padel Plaza on the Groene Loper, you can reserve one of the nine indoor courts to hit some balls. For those who don't know Padel yet: this relatively new popular sport is a mix between tennis and squash. No racket? No problem. If you are staying in Maastricht for a longer period, you can improve your skills with a padel course or join the business club.
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Padel Plaza Maastricht