Vaals

[[file:Vaals banner.jpg|1280px|caption-Von Clermontplein, Vaals}} Vaals-Huis Bloemendal (14) - Huize Bloemendaal, now a hotel, is an impressive sight in the heart of town.

Vaals is a small city in the South Limburg region, in the Netherlands|Dutch province Limburg (Netherlands)|Limburg. It is located right on both the Belgian and German border, with the much larger German city of Aachen at just a stone's throw away. A popular holiday destination for Dutch domestic tourists and the town is surrounded by the rolling hills this region is famous for and is known for its beautiful landscapes.

Vaals Halal Travel Guide

Drilandenpunt - The Drielandenpunt marks the spot where the (German), Belgian and Dutch borders meet

The borders of Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands meet here in Vaals, on the Drielandenpunt. The official place of the Drielandenpunt is just a few steps aways from the highest point of the (European) Netherlands and the Vaalserberg. Vaals is a friendly town for tourists, with regular activities and a beautiful natural area surrounding it. The Dutch call it "a piece of abroad in the Netherlands".

The municipality Vaals comprises this town itself as well as a few other villages and hamlets. The main population centres are:

• Vijlen and its hamlets and the highest located village in the nation and popular with hikers and bikers.
• Lemiers, a small village with a nice, old church.
• Holset, a tiny village with some good options to eat and a medieval church.

A large number of the inhabitants, up to 26%, are Germans. Nowadays and the town's main activity is tourism. Many Dutch, German and Belgian tourists visit this friendly town each year, with the Drielandenpunt as it's main attraction but mostly of course for the beautiful scenery and picturesque hamlets around town.

History

The oldest archaeological traces of human settlements in Vaals were found in the nearby Vijlener forest, and date from the time of Linear Potter culture, about 5000BC. The origin of the town's name is Roman, with its ancient names Vals and Vallis meaning "in the Valley".

Vaals is first mentioned in documents in 1041. In that time, Emperor Henry III donated land to the St. Adalbert Abbey and to distinguish between the city of Aachen and this land, it is referred to as "in the valley"/in Vallis. In those days and the centre of the municipality was Holset, also home to a high court of justice.

Given the location of the municipality, along the main (and originally Roman) road between Aachen and Maastricht, Vaals observed many armies passing by. During the war against the Spanish occupation, in 1568 and the armed forces of William of Orange passed through Vaals and looted St. Pauls Church.

In 1661 Vaals became part of the Republic of the United Netherlands. Many wealthy citizens moved to Vaals and turned it into a flourishing industrial hub. One prominent industrial family were the Von Clermonts, who moved from Aachen to Vaals in 1761 and established a large linen factory, with clientèle in Prussia, Belgium, Austria, Poland and even Russia. In 1717, Tsar Peter the Great visited the Von Clermonts. In 1803, Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of France, and his wife Josephine de Beauharnais visited Vaals and stayed in Bloemendal Castle, one of the outhouses of the Von Clermont family.

During the Conference of Vienna, Aachen was assigned to Prussia and Vaals to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Upon the Belgian declaration of independence in 1830, Vaals was Belgian claimed territory until it was reassigned to the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1839. As a result and the four national boundaries of Prussia, Belgium and the Netherlands and the Neutral Territory of Moresnet, met near Vaals until Moresnet was absorbed into Belgium in 1919 and the current 3 countries point remained.

After 1840

Due to increased competition and the political closure of the German and Belgian regio to Vaals, industrial activity went down after 1840. Vaals turned from a wealthy industrial town into a leisure and holiday destination for the citizens of Aachen. Its casino's in this time made it a Monte Carlo like destination for the well-to-do of the surrounding regions. Germans referred to the town as the "Vaalser Paradies". To stimulate industry and tourism, a tram was installed in 1922 from Aachen, via Vaals to Wijlre, which was expanded to Maastricht in 1924. This prestigious and costly project was not very successful, as the tram ran no more than 13 years.

Before and during World War II the borders were closed and Vaals grew isolated due to its remote location in the Netherlands. After the war, commerce rose. Germans visited Vaals on a daily basis, as they still do today. Many inhabitants of Vaals found jobs in Aachen and smuggle routes across the border prospered. The smugglers of Vaals were called "The Owls of Vaals", referring to their nightly endeavours. Nowadays and the borders are of course open and Vaals is well embedded in the Aachen local transport system.

• VVV Limburg tourist information store Vaals | Maastrichterlaan 73a ☎ +31 900-5559798 (€1 per conversation) The tourist information office is a well equipped place with maps, lal-tours/ tours and information on all major sights. They can also assist in hotel bookings etc.

Travel as a Muslim to Vaals

The main way in by vehicle is over the N281, which is connected to the E14/A76. This road is crucially the ancient Roman route from Maastricht to Aachen. Still today, it goes straight through town on to Aachen, and the two towns have basically become one big urban area, with no space in between. Smaller, regional roads (which are advisable if you like to enjoy the scenery) lead to neighbouring Epen and Vijlen, and across the Belgium border to Gemmenich and Plobières.

Buses run frequently and are the only form of public transport to get in or out. The town's main terminal is right in the centre, at the Alexanderplein and in the middle of the shopping area. The main connections are:

• Line 43 - to Simpelveld and Heerlen
• Line 50 - to Gulpen and Maastricht
• Line 50 - to Aachen

The nearest airport is Maastricht-Aachen Airport (IATA Code: MST) served by a handful of seasonal Flights to beach destinations, and from nearby Aachen direct trains also run to Dusseldorf Airport (IATA Code: DUS), which is just over an hour away and has many more international destinations.

There's no train station in Vaals. It's easy enough however to catch a German train in Aachen, or to arrive in Maastricht or Heerlen and take a bus from there.

How to get around in Vaals

The old center can be reasonably well be explored by foot, but a bike or vehicle is an excellent option since many of the sights lie on the outskirts of town. Also and the surrounding natural area and villages make one of the towns greatest assets, but take quite a hike on foot. Unlike most other Dutch cities and the center is not vehicle free and it therefor easy to get around when driving your own or a rented car.

Electric bikes are an increasingly popular way to get around, as they provide all the benefits of a normal bike but make it a lot easier to make your way to the hill tops. This "groenfietsen" (green biking) is an extensive initiative and comes with route proposals. If you book ahead, several restaurants, hotels and campings in Vaals can make these so-called "green-bikes" available for you. If you haven't reserved one, try nearbyHerberg Oud Holset, Holset 54 Lemiers. For more information and a list of participants, see the project website].

What to see in Vaals

Dreiländereck Labyrinth - Labyrinth at the border triangle point Vaals-Eschberg 5 - The Eschberg mansion is one of the registered monuments in town.

• Border triangle - Drielandenpunt | At this point the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany come together with their respective borders. The exact point is marked by a small, unimpressive stone pilar but is still considered the main must-see in town. To entertain the 1 million visitors that find their way here each year and the largest labyrinth in the nation was build here, as well as two towers allowing to enjoy to view from the top of the Vaalserberg. There are a few cafés and the forests around it allow for a hike through 3 countries at once.
• Museum de Kopermolen | Von Clermontplein 11 GPS: €2.90 This small museum is housed in a monumental building, build in 1736 as a Lutheran church. It has changing art expositions and regularly concerts and lectures are organized.
• Museum Vaals | Eschberg 5-7 ☎ : +31 43-3060080 | Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 10.30-17.30h. The collection of this small museum comprises a somewhat odd combination of church statues and modern art. It's located in a historic monastery chapel.
• St. Pauluskerk - Kerkstraat 27 GPS: 50.770375, 6.022592 €5/2,5 for adults/children Saint Paul's Church, Vaals Vaals-St. Pauluskerk (2) v2 This late 19th century Neo Gothic church listed as a national monument. It was designed by Johannes Kayser to replace an older church, also dedicated to St. Paul, but situated about 150m to the south.

What to do in Vaals

• Kartingbaan Vaals | Selzerbeeklaan 23 ☎ : +31 43-306 18 66 The only outdoor carting track in the province makes an excellent option for a small adrenaline rush.
• Horse carriage lal-tours/ tours | - GPS: ☎ +31 43 450 20 48 A horse carriage tour through Vaals' beautiful surroundings is a lovely experience. The carriage will take you to some of the nice hamlets and town outskirts. You will have to book some time in advance, as this is a small scale private enterprise.
• Kunstroute Vaals - GPS: €14.50 For about 3 weeks in July, several historic locations in town host art expositions of various kinds for the annual "Art Route". Walk from one exposition to the next, exploring town as well as the work of various artists. Information is in Dutch, but the collections are very good and a ticket will buy you entrance to all participating locations, some little Snacks served at a few of those places and an art brochure. Tickets are available from several Vaals Tourism Board Offices (VVV) in the region, but you might as well buy it at the starting point: the Vaals Tourism Board Office in Vaals. You can start the route between 10am and 1pm.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Vaals

Vaals has a good range of shops, including clothing, shoes, toy and giftstores as well as many daily grocery options. Most of the stores are along the Maastrichterlaan and the primary street through town.

There's a fairly large weekly market on Tuesday mornings, in front of the town hall. During the tourist season (roughly from May to October) a regional products market is held very second Saturday (in the evenly numbered weeks). It's small but sells local products like mustard and jams that make good souvenirs. You'll find it on the Prins Willem Alexanderplein, in front of the Albert Heijn Supermarket with selected Halal food.

Halal Restaurants in Vaals

• Cafetaria Delnoye | Maastrichterlaan 164 ☎ +31 43 308 02 09 - €5 One of the most popular places among local residents for fries and a Snacks.
• Kasteel Bloemendal | Bloemendalstraat 150 ☎ : +31 43 365 98 00 - from € 30 This beautiful small castle in the middle of town houses not only an upscale hotel, but also a restaurant. Plenty of luxurious dishes to choose from, but menu offers do start from around € 30. There's a pretty good list.
• Brasserie Lodge 7 | Epenerbaan 1 ☎ : +31 43 306 43 05 - € 30,50 The beautiful location of this modern place out of the town center makes it worth a visit. There's a nice terrace in summer and a fire place in winter. The food gets pretty good reviews too.
• De Raadskelder | Koningin Julianaplein 49 ☎ : +31 43 407 36 39 - €20 Lovely restaurant setting in the ancient cellars of the town hall. The food is traditional but good and the service adequate.
• Troje | Kerstraat 68 ☎ : +31 43 306 33 02 - €17 Greek restaurant with nice food and large portions. The service is friendly and take away is an option too.
• Schatull | Akenerstraat 31 ☎ +31 0 43 306 17 40 - 3 course menu from €25 Housed in an old South Limburg building, Schatull serves sunny dishes with a Tuscan origin. Perhaps the best place around for a taste of Italian cuisine. On request and they can organize cooking workshops and demonstrations.

For a real taste of nightlife, follow the local residents and head to Aachen, Maastricht or Heerlen. Nonetheless, if you're just looking for a pleasant place to have a drink and there are a few around.

• Café Allure | Maastrichterlaan 81 ☎ : +31 43 3065047 Cosy, old-fashioned brown café with a good choice in soft drinks.
• Grand Café Zera | Pr.W.Alexanderplein 1 ☎ : +31 43-3060655 This grand café right in the heart of town is really more than just a café. It also serves lunch and dinner, which you can order on the outdoor terrace if weather allows.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Vaals

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

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inVaals: 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 Vaals.

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

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Vaals, 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 Vaals, 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 Vaals and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Vaals, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Vaals, 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 Vaals 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 Vaals 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 Vaals.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Vaals 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 Vaals, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Vaals Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Vaals

eHalal Group Vaals is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Vaals. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Vaals.

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 Vaals 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 Vaals. 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 Vaals, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Vaals are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

There are several lodging options, but many are in the surrounding villages (which belong to the Vaals municipality) Therefore, consider staying in Vijlen or Lemiers as well.

• Bloemendal | Bloemendalstraat 150, 6291 CM Vaals ☎ : +31 43 365 98 00 - From €115 for a standard or €150 for a suite Located in the heart of town, this is both one of the best hotel and one of the main sights in town. It's a romantic place with lovely gardens and a pleasant outdoor terrace in summer. Facilities include a swimming pool, a whirlpool, a solarium and a sauna. They offer good but general rooms in a side wing of the castle, as well as nicely decorated suites in the old parts. Note that some (more expensive) rooms have nice and spacious bathrooms, while some cheaper ones have fairly small showers. Whichever room you're in, however, this is a beautiful hotel with excellent service and a good restaurant.
• Bilderberg Kasteel Vaalsbroek | Vaalsbroek 1, 6291 NH Vaals ☎ : +31 43 - 308 93 08 - €99 for a double incl. breakfast The service at this place is excellent and the rooms are good value. There's no common lounge area but the restaurant is one of the best around and this place gets points for its quiet, just out-of-town location and outside looks. To be fair however, you don't actually sleep or have breakfast in the castle area itself, but you can dine there.
• Vaalserhof | Lemierserberg 35-37 ☎ : +31 43-3080155 - Fully equipped apartments with private balcony or terrace on the back side, giving a nice view.
• Camping Hoeve de Gastmolen | Lemierserberg 23 ☎ : +31 433065755 - €12 per day + €3,75 p.p. Fairly small natural camping on the outskirts of Vaals. It's a former farm, close to the Selzerbeek creek. It has all the basic facilities, including good sanitary and a small playground for the kids.

Telecommunications in Vaals

Several hotels and other accommodations offer wifi for their guests. The public library offers free use of computers with internet access.

• Public Library - Bibliotheek Vaals | Street Jozefplein 51 ☎ +31 43-3080110 | Opening Hours: Tuesday 10.30AM Monday - 12.30noon, 2PM Monday - 18PM, West 2PM Monday - 6PM, Friday 2PM Monday - 8PM, Saturday 10.30AM Monday - 12.30noon. Closed on Su/M/Thursday

• Post Office | Maastrichterlaan 43 located inside Drogisterij-Parfumerie Ramaekers - Open on weekdays, but they take a lunch break from 1 to 2 PM. Sat. open from 9AM Monday - 1PM.

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Vaals

As the old German city of Aachen is just a stone's throw away, it makes for a great day trip. You can easily bike there, or take bus line 50 from the bus station in Vaals.

Other nearby travel destinations include:

• Gulpen, take the N278 or bus line 50
• Maastricht, take the N278 or bus line 50
• Simpelveld, take the N287 & N281 or bus line 43

For further destinations you can catch an intercity train in Maastricht, Heerlen or Aachen.

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