Spend your Christmas holiday in the southern Netherlands

The Christmas season in South Limburg is truly enchanting. From De Mechelerhof in Mechelen, you can discover the rolling winter hills filled with lights, music and festive charm. Our holiday park lies in the heart of the Limburg hills and is the perfect base to visit the many Christmas markets and picturesque villages in the region.

For example, explore the underground Christmas caves of Christmas Town Valkenburg, visit Magical Maastricht with its ice rink and Christmas chalets on the Vrijthof, or take a winter walk through the hills around Mechelen and enjoy the panoramic views over South Limburg.

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Christmas and New Year at De Mechelerhof

Celebrate the holidays in a place where peace and coziness come together. Our comfortable holiday apartments are perfect for a warm and festive stay during Christmas and New Year in Mechelen. After a cheerful day full of Christmas shopping and winter walks, you can return to your snug apartment with everything you need for a relaxing stay.

The stylish interior, modern kitchen and comfortable box-spring beds make your holiday with us truly restful and carefree.

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Where is De Mechelerhof located?

De Mechelerhof is located in the village of Mechelen, right in the heart of the hilly South Limburg region. Thanks to its central location, you can reach well-known destinations such as Valkenburg, Maastricht and Vaals within a short drive. Aachen (Germany) is also nearby, making it the perfect base for your Christmas holiday in South Limburg.

  • Valkenburg | approx. 20–25 minutes by car
  • Maastricht | approx. 35 minutes by car
  • Vaals & Three-Country Point | approx. 15 minutes by car
  • Aachen (Germany) | approx. 25 minutes by car

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When is the Christmas holiday in the Netherlands?

The Christmas holiday for 2025 runs from Saturday 20 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026. This is the perfect time to get away for a few days and spend the festive season in the south of Limburg. Plan your special holiday in Mechelen now and experience the magical Christmas atmosphere at De Mechelerhof.

This is why you should celebrate Christmas in South Limburg!

  • Visit South Limburg's Christmas town, Valkenburg. Nowhere in the Netherlands do they know how to create a wonderful Christmas atmosphere better than in South Limburg. Discover the unique landscape combined with Christmas markets and stalls. Did you know that this popular Christmas spectacle in Valkenburg starts as early as 14 November 2025?
  • Of course, our capital city, Maastricht, is also worth a visit during the Christmas period. The beautiful Christmas window displays and beautifully decorated streets make Christmas shopping extra atmospheric.
  • Near the Mechelerhof, you will find the South Limburg Steam Railway Company, also known as the Million Line. From 6 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, the special Christmas express will travel through the winter landscape of South Limburg.
  • Follow one of the crib walks through the cosy villages with plenty of pretty cribs (nativity scenes) and chapels. These are the most beautiful crib walks in South Limburg.
  • Super fun are the routes d'Amuse through Christmas town Valkenburg. Choose one of the four routes and enjoy a delicious Amuse along the way at various restaurants.

Our holiday apartments in winter

At De Mechelerhof, you’ll stay in spacious and charming holiday apartments built in authentic Limburg half-timbered style. The apartments are suitable for 2 to 6 people and feature a comfortable living room, modern kitchen and cozy box-spring beds. During the Christmas season and throughout the winter months, the atmosphere is extra special – the warm interior, beautiful views of the surrounding hills and the tranquility of the Geul Valley make for a truly relaxing stay.

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Our tips for Christmas markets in South Limburg

One of the best things to do during the festive season in South Limburg is to visit its many Christmas markets. From our holiday park, you can reach Valkenburg, Maastricht, or even Belgium and Germany within a short drive. Discover our favourite Christmas markets below – each with its own magical atmosphere.

Christmas Town Valkenburg

14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026

The most famous Christmas market in South Limburg is undoubtedly in Valkenburg. Experience two underground Christmas markets inside the caves, surrounded by thousands of lights and decorations throughout the town – it doesn’t get more nostalgic than this.

Magical Maastricht

28 November 2025 – 29 December 2025

Throughout December, the Vrijthof square turns into a winter wonderland where you can stroll past charming stalls, go ice skating, and enjoy mulled wine or hot chocolate. Magical Maastricht is known for its twinkling lights and festive atmosphere.

Aachen Christmas Market

21 November 2025 – 23 December 2025

Just across the border in Germany, you’ll find the atmospheric Aachen Christmas Market located around the impressive cathedral and town hall. Enjoy the smell of freshly baked waffles, traditional German sausages, and mulled wine as you wander through the beautifully lit stalls.

Village de Noël in Liège

29 November 2025 to 30 December 2025 (Christmas village)
29 November 2025 to 4 January 2026 (Christmas ice rink)

The Christmas market in Liège is the oldest in Belgium and is located about 50 minutes from the park. Discover a cosy atmosphere with festive restaurants, an ice rink, a Ferris wheel, and spectacular winter entertainment.

WinterTijd Heerlen

11 December 2025 – 4 January 2026

The city of Heerlen transforms into a large and cheerful winter village, only about half an hour from the park. With an ice rink, ice slide, curling lane and cosy winter cafés, WinterTijd Heerlen is a wonderful outing for families, couples and friends.

Tips for New Year’s Eve and January in South Limburg

Even after Christmas, South Limburg remains full of winter charm and festive activities. In January and around New Year’s Eve, you can enjoy a variety of events – from spectacular shows to cozy winter attractions. Discover our favourite tips below to start the new year in style.

Cable Car Park Valkenburg

14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026

In Valkenburg, you can continue the festive fun even after Christmas. Take the cable car up for beautiful views over the illuminated Geul Valley and enjoy the cheerful winter atmosphere on the Cauberg hill.

Holiday on Ice at MECC Maastricht

9 – 11 January 2026

The world-famous ice show Holiday on Ice comes to Maastricht! Enjoy dazzling choreography, light shows and music, a perfect winter evening at MECC Maastricht.

Facilities during the festive season

Even in the winter months, De Mechelerhof offers everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay. You can count on well-heated apartments, free Wi-Fi and the cozy atmosphere of the park. The reception is open for any questions or for walking and cycling tips in the surrounding area.

  • Heated holiday apartments.
  • Bicycle rental and walking routes available.
  • Free Wi-Fi and charging stations in the car park.
  • Fresh bread service and VIP packages with luxurious extras.

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Celebrate Christmas in South Limburg at De Mechelerhof

Would you like to combine the Christmas season with peace, nature and a cozy atmosphere? From De Mechelerhof, you can discover the most beautiful Christmas markets in South Limburg and enjoy a comfortable stay in your own apartment. Book now and experience the festive season in the heart of the Limburg Hills.

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Frequently asked questions about Christmas at De Mechelerhof

Here you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about the Christmas season in South Limburg and at our holiday park. Still have questions? Feel free to contact us, we’re happy to help.

When is the Christmas holiday in the Netherlands?

The Christmas holidays in the Netherlands run from Saturday 20 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026. Plan your special festive holiday in Mechelen now!

What are the best Christmas markets in South Limburg?

The most famous Christmas markets in South Limburg are in Valkenburg, Maastricht and Aachen. Valkenburg features the well-known underground Christmas markets in the caves, Maastricht offers a festive atmosphere with chalets on the Vrijthof square, and Aachen charms visitors with German treats, glühwein and Christmas delicacies. All these cities are within a short drive from De Mechelerhof.

Does De Mechelerhof offer breakfast service or are there restaurants nearby?

Yes, a breakfast service is available during your stay. In addition, you’ll find several cozy restaurants and cafés nearby where you can enjoy lunch or dinner. See more tips here.

How far is De Mechelerhof from Valkenburg and Maastricht?

From our park, it’s about 20 to 25 minutes to Valkenburg and approximately 35 minutes to Maastricht. Thanks to its central location in the Heuvelland, you can easily reach the most popular Christmas markets and winter events in South Limburg.

Are there walking routes in the area?

Yes, several walking routes start directly from the park, leading you through the beautiful Geul Valley and past picturesque villages. For example, explore the routes towards Epen or Slenaken.

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Is De Mechelerhof open during New Year’s Eve?

Yes, De Mechelerhof is open all year round – including during New Year’s Eve. Enjoy a relaxing start to the new year in the heart of South Limburg.

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Are pets allowed during the Christmas holidays?

Yes, pets are always welcome in selected apartments. When booking, you can indicate under ‘travel party’ that you’re bringing a dog, and the pet-friendly apartments will be displayed automatically.

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Can I book last minute for Christmas or New Year’s Eve?

Absolutely! The Christmas season is a popular time to stay at De Mechelerhof, so don’t wait too long. You can easily book online via our Search and Book page. See you soon in Mechelen!

Is De Mechelerhof a fireworks-free holiday park?

De Mechelerhof is known for its peaceful and natural setting in the South Limburg hills. No fireworks are allowed on the park grounds during New Year’s Eve, ensuring a calm and relaxing atmosphere. However, fireworks may be set off in nearby villages and could occasionally be heard from the park.