Beer Miles & Thermal Smiles (the Not-So-Dutch Weekend away)

Hello, my dear nature lovers, especially those urgently needing a weekend adventurer, a relaxed but active escape filled with hilly landscapes, great company, and plenty of time to unwind. This one is about slowing down without standing still, enjoying nature, and spending quality time together. And yes… this is your sign to pack your favorite pajamas and your dancing outfit!

We’ll start Saturday morning gently with coffee at Smaakmakerij Fer Botterweck in Valkenburg, difficult to pronounce, impossible to forget. This place is a pie heaven, and the sugar boost will definitely come in handy later. We’ll meet there at 10:35, and at 11:10 sharp we’ll head off together. It’s a bit of a journey for some of you, but I promise a day full of beautiful moments and very happy legs!

From there, we’ll dive straight into nature. The first part of our walk (around 12.5 km) takes us through forest paths and hilly terrain that really don’t feel like the Netherlands. Expect steps, views, and that satisfying feeling of being properly out in nature. Perfect for shaking off the working week.

For lunch, the local brewery Gulpener Brewery will be waiting for us. You can have your own lunch on the way if you prefer, or order something warm there. What I truly recommend, though, is the beer tasting: three specialty beers with an explanation, a lovely and very fitting break for legs in the middle of our hike.

After lunch, we’ll continue walking for about 10 km more, passing through small villages and wide panoramic landscapes. Somewhere along the way, we’ll stop for a coffee in a real castle. It’s one of those places that feels almost unreal and makes you pause for a moment.

Once we’re back in Valkenburg, we’ll head to a Chinese comfort food restaurant for dinner. Please let me know if you’d like to join so I can reserve a table for the group. We’ll eat, relax, play some games, and wind down together, and from there, you can either head home or stay and continue the adventure.

For those who want to stay overnight, Valkenburg has a surprisingly fun and cozy nightlife. Hotels near the city center are around €50 per person. Feel free to book already if you’re going as a couple or want your own room. These are some good options:
Hotel Hendrickx
Atlas Hotel
Hotel Courage
De Heek
Le Bistro - the cheapest option
If you’d like help finding someone to share with, I’ll be happy to assist closer to the trip. After settling in, we’ll explore the town together, and if the energy is still there, hit the dance floor and uncover our inner dancing queens!

Sunday is all about rest and recovery. We’ll start with a relaxed breakfast in a cozy grandma style café and then take a short walk to Thermae 2000, the largest thermal spa in the Netherlands. Warm mineral-rich water, quiet moments, and full relaxation before heading home. Don’t forget your swimsuit — it’s essential.

Quick itinerary
Dates: 14–15 March
Saturday meeting time: 10:35
Lunch / beer tasting: around 14:30
Finish in Valkenburg for those who leave after the hike 18:30-19:00
Total distance Saturday: ±23 km
Evening: optional dinner with board games, overnight stay, and night out in Valkenburg
Sunday: breakfast and spa day at Thermae 2000 as long as you fancy

What to bring
Water and snacks for the hike
Lunch (if you want to skip brewery food)
Something comfortable to sit on
Swimsuit, towel, slippers, and robe for the spa
Pajamas and a change of clothes for the evening
Everything you need for an overnight stay
Good book for the journey

What to wear
Comfortable walking or hiking shoes are essential
An extra outfit for the evening in Valkenburg

Practical info
Meet-up fee: €10 per person (covers organization)
https://tikkie.me/pay/tcjodtu90mfiijbhqdq6

I’ll arrange the restaurants and help coordinate hotels for those interested.
The spa booking is done individually, as they don’t really appreciate group reservations.

Payment & confirmation
If you’re on the attendees list, please send your payment by 25 February to confirm your spot and allow us to organize accommodation. If you’re on the waitlist, you’ll get priority on February 25. Last minute cancellations are non-refundable.

Community & Practical Info
WhatsApp group: You’ll receive the event WhatsApp link before the hike to connect, coordinate, and get to know each other.
Instagram: Follow us for updates and behind-the-scenes moments: https://www.instagram.com/campfires_tales
We often take photos and short videos to share the CampFires magic. If you’d prefer not to be featured, just let us know at the start — we always respect your privacy.

If this sounds like your kind of weekend, long walks, local beer, castles, dancing, and deep relaxation, we’d absolutely love to have you with us.
It’s going to be a special one. 💛