Epen

From Halal Explorer

South Limburg in Winter near Epen Epen is a small town in South Limburg and the southern most region of the Netherlands. It's a picturesque little place that features some of the best landscape views in the nation and is dotted with the timber framed houses that are so typical for this area.

Epen Halal Travel Guide

Landscape between Epen and Sippenaeken - Natural and agricultural landscapes around the village are the main attraction.

For long, Dutch, Belgian and German tourists have discovered the beautiful surroundings of this region and of Epen in particular. Although only some 740 local residents live in the village itself today, or 1120 when the surrounding area is added to that number and there are plenty of options to stay, eat and drink.

Epen is part of the municipality of Gulpen-Wittem, with Gulpen and Wittem obviously being the primary towns. The Belgian border is at walking distance, allowing for lovely cross-border hikes to the Belgian villages on the other side. The river Geul passes through Epen, leaving zinc and other specific elements in the soils it touches. It is therefore that Zinkviooltjes, a rare kind of violets, and other rare, zinc-loving plants are found here.

History

In medieval times and the Epen territory belonged to the Carolingian kings. First written evidence of the settlement dates back to 1041, when it is mentioned in an akt of the Roman king Hendrik under the name "Apine". In 1056 Hendrik and then German Emperor, gives a number of goods in "villa Apensis" to the abbey of Burtscheid, to which they belong until 1794. Some believe that poverty, due to the many passing armies and the effects of war, are the reason why so many timber framed houses in the area remain.

  • VVV tourist information office | Julianastraat 15 ☎ +31 900-555 9798 - The tourist information office has a good range of maps and other information. They can also assist in finding a place to stay.

Travel to Epen

There are basically three roads leading to the village, in the directions of nearby Vaals, Mechelen/Partij and Slenaken. Coming from the N278 (e.g. from Maastricht), leave that road at Partij and follow signs for Mechelen and Epen. The way is also indicated from Vaals, Vijlen and Gulpen. It's generally a pleasant drive with nice vistas.

There's no train station in the direct surroundings, but bus line 57 connects Epen to Gulpen and Maastricht. Therefore, when arriving by train, your best option is to take an intercity train to Maastricht and catch the bus from there. The closest airport is also Maastricht-Aachen Airport.

Cycling is highly popular in this area, and if the slopes are not an issue for you, cycling in is a nice way to pick up some of the great scenery on the way. Routes are plentiful, with cycling directions provided on almost all way pointers (look for the red bike). For hikers, several walking routes avoid roads and concentrate mostly on forest paths and the open fields.

How to get around in Epen

To see the best of the town, you'll have to see the outskirts and the surrounding natural areas and hamlets. Hiking is a great way to enjoy some peace and quiet as well as good views, since you can take the many small walking paths around. However, prepare for a fairly long and at times tiring hike through the hilly area. The same goes for adventuring Epen's surroundings on a normal bike. Alternatively, reserve an electric bike from Wingbergermolen (Terpoorterweg 4, +31 (0)43-4559110, ingbergermolen.nl. A vehicle is another good option, but you'll need to head to Valkenburg, Maastricht or Heerlen to rent one.

What to see in Epen

Eperheide-Julianastraat 40 (3) - Timber framed houses are a common sight here, with many of them old and listed as monuments. Volmolen-003 - The 18th century Volmolen

  • Sint Paulus Bekering Wilhelminastraat 3 50.776839, 5.912094 - Epen-Kerk (1) The village church is dedicated to St. Paulus and still in use. It was build in 1840-1841.
  • Timber framed houses | NA, NA - Timber framed houses that are typical for South Limburg, are especially common in Epen and the surrounding villages. You'll see them when you walk around. The Wilhelminastraat has several, some of them being national legacy sites.
  • Eper Molen - Wingbergermolen | Terpoorterweg 4 50.773103, 5.920408 - Epen-Wingbermolen-3 This watermill along the river Geul was built in 1844, but renovations in the 20th century changed the looks of it.
  • Volmolen Plaatweg 1, Plaat 50.769547, 5.919669 - Volmolen-003 899804 This 18th century watermill on a side stream of the Geul was originally build as a fulling mill. It is located in the hamlet of Plaat, near Epen. It was part of the then blooming cloth industry in Vaals. In the 1830s, after not being used for years, a German by the name of Johann Wilhelm Kannengiesser changed it into a wool spinning mill. After it was destroyed twice in fires, it was sold and changed into a grain mill. Following the Second World War and the mill became abandoned. In the 1970s, it was renovated and brought back into action as a grain mill, which it still is today.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Epen

  • Touring - . The obvious activity around and the main reason for many visitors to come to Epen. By bike, electric bike, motor scooter or vehicle - touring the surroundings with the occasional stop for a picture, picnic or coffee is a lovely thing to do.
  • Hiking | Another highly popular way to see the best of this area is simply on foot. The tourist information office has routes and maps for any kind of hike: from just a few, till a hundred kilometer or more.
  • Sheep shepherd | Julianastraat 41b ☎ +31 43 455 1650 - There's a sheep shepherd farm just outside Epen. In winter and early spring and the sheep are inside, where they have theirs lambs. In summer and they help in the maintenance of the surrounding grass fields. In January, you can witness the shaving of the sheep (check the website for dates). Not much later the first lambs are born. You can visit on weekends during this period. The shepherd gives group demonstrations in summer (but you have to call ahead) and there's a small shop.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Epen

At the sheep shepherd's farm, a range of wool products are for sale. The tourist information offices sells some souvenirs and regional products.

  • Bakkerij Fransen Wilhelminastraat 63a ☎ +31 434551522 - The local bakery sells a good range of breads and pastries, including several varieties of the regional "vlaai", a sweet pie filled with fruit or custard.
  • Spar Supermarket Wilhelminastraat 15 Opening Hours: 8.30-18.00, Saturday: 8.30-17.00, closed on Sunday The supermarket is fairly small but it has all daily needs.

Halal Restaurants

There are quite many places that cater to visitors here. Most serve simple but good bistro-style food and some have excellent views. Note that some places may close early or even entirely in winter.

  • Taverne Wingbergermolen Terpoorterweg 4 ☎ +31 43 455 91 10 mains around 14 EUR Housed in an ancient water mill, this charming place serves simple but good food. Try the regional stew: zuurvlees. Wingbergermolen also rent out two group lodging apartments for 6 -8 people.
  • Panorama Restaurant Gerardushoeve Julianastraat 23 ☎ +31 43 455 17 93 mains from 15 EUR It's the beautiful view that attracts so many travelers to this place, but the food is reasonable too. The service is fast and the terrace fills up quickly. The restaurant is part of a 3 start hotel.
  • De Pannekoek | Julianastraat 26 ☎ +31 43 455 20 24 from 5 EUR A pancake restaurant, as they are common in the Netherlands. You'll find a broad range of sweet and savory pancakes as well as typical Dutch poffertjes.
  • Bij Giuseppe - Situated within Hotel Eureka | Kapelaan Houbenstraat 4 ☎ +31 43 4551654 Opening Hours: Closed on Tu&W Pizzas around €10 The local Italian restaurant is actually quite good and has a nice outdoor terrace. Inside it's a bit less cosy but it's still a fine pick if you're craving some Italian dishes. The service is nice too. They now make their own ice cream on the premises, at least 12 flavours to choose from.
  • De Krieëkel Krekelstraat 2 ☎ +31 43 4552200 Mains from €13,25 This place is home to a Snacks corner and, next door, a small restaurant. The restaurant has a simple menu but tasty food and the service is nice. They can't offer the grand views some other places have, but thit is an excellent option if you're trying to watch your budget.

Most of the terraces make for excellent places to just have a drink, and outside of the main lunch and diner hours, you'll be more than welcome to sit down for a soft drinks. There is a cosy local café, but for any serious night life you should try Aachen or Maastricht.

  • Café Sport | Wilhelminastraat 13 ☎ +31 434551520 Opening Hours: Closed on Wednesdays Thit is a real gathering point for the local residents, and several clubs have their weekly meetings in the large room behind the main bar area. It serves over 20 brands of with at least 5 on tap. There's a large parking space close by.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Epen

Epen - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Epen, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Epen. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Epen and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Epen. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Epen. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Epen: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Epen.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Epen: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Epen, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Epen.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Epen, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Epen, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Epen and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Epen, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Epen, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Epen without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Epen is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Epen.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Epen is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Epen, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Epen Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Epen

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At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Epen ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Epen. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Epen, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

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Muslim Friendly Hotels

There are plenty of lodging options in Epen and the villages and hamlets around. Camping is very popular around here, with camping grounds varying from basic ones with 5-10 places to large ones with lots of facilities. Chalets, advertised as "vakantiehuis(jes)", are also common. The best ones are booked full rapidly, so if feasible, try to book months in advance. Especially if you're travelling with a group or family, camping or chalets are convenient and good-value options. Nevertheless, if you prefer a hotel, pension or bed&breakfast, you'll find those as well. Again, try to book in advance. As in most tourism-oriented places, lodging prices generally rise in high-season.

  • Wandelhotel In 't groene dal Wilhelminastraat 68 ☎ +31 43-4551307 From 64 EUR for a double Simple, clean rooms in a friendly hotel that is popular among hikers. Some rooms have private bathrooms but others don't, so ask when you make your reservations.
  • Hotel Inkelshoes - Terzieterweg 26 ☎ +31 43-4551742 From 45 EUR p.p A small distance from Epen, near the hamlet Terziet, this friendly family-run hotel offers good rooms with private bathrooms and balconies.
  • Ons Krijtland - Julianastraat 22 ☎ +31 43 - 455 15 57 Doubles from 97 EUR, apartments from 150EUR This place has been around since 1931 and offers luxurious hotel rooms and apartments for up to 6 people, some with a great view.
  • Hotel de Kroon Wilhelminastraat 8 ☎ +31 434552120 From €104 for a double incl. breakfast, €94 if you stay at least 2 nights Open since 1902, this hotel is run by a friendly family and has a comfortable lounge bar with adequate seating and a number of large colour TV's to watch sport or the news in both Dutch or English. A games room is situated at the rear part of the hotel and there's a designated outside smoking area with seating and tables. Several games, including 'Darts and 3 ball Dutch Billiards', are available and are used by both hotel guests and local visitors. The bar has a variety of draught soft drinks/lager to choose from, including local brew.
  • Hotel Creusen Wilhelminastraat 50 ☎ +31 434551215 From €100 per day for a hotel room or €135 for a weekend apartment This 4 star hotel is one of the larger hotels in town, but still has that typical family-hotel feel. They offer normal hotel rooms and good value apartments with kitchens. The owners are nice and the rooms are modern and spacious. There's a swimming pool, a small sauna, a restaurant and a very pleasant garden terrace.
  • Camping Oosterberg Oosterberg 2 ☎ +31 43 4551377 - Per night: €2.75 for tent or caravan, plus €3.95/2.50 per adult/child, €0.95 p.p. environmental tax and €2.70 for a car. Hot water, laundry facilities and electricity come at a (small) charge as well. This well-equipped camp ground has some wonderful views over the area. It also offers a cosy indoor space and cafeteria, playgrounds and free pony rides for the kids and good, new sanitary facilities.

Telecommunications in Epen

There's good GSM coverage and 4G works quite okay in the village. Most hotels offer WiFi for their guests.

All the usual post office services, including packages, are offered inside the Tourist information office (Julianastraat 15). If you're just looking for stamps, you can also get them at the Spar supermarket (Wilhelminastraat 15)

News & References Epen


Travel Next

The whole region is popular with Muslim visitors and there are plenty of interesting next stops. Vaals, Vijlen and Gulpen are charming destinations in the direct surroundings of Epen, but go just a bit further and you'll find yourself in bustling, historic Maastricht or its German equivalent, Aachen.Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd.
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