South Limburg – surprisingly green

A rainbow of languages, cultures, food, wine and charming hills offering something unique and very special to visitors

Recently recognized as one of the world’s top 100 sustainable destinations, South Limburg is very, very green, not only its scenery but also in its practices.

The most southern part of Holland is spectacularly different. Its tale is told by its hilly landscape and its closeness to many other cultures and languages. You could say that South Limburg is Holland’s rainbow.

Right in the beautiful heart of Europe, South Limburg shares borders with both Germany and Belgium- one of its most famous sights is the ‘Three Countries Point’ – and for those that thought Holland was flat – it’s over 300 metres high! A history of cultural engagements makes South Limburg very special and unique too.

Local people simply love their beautiful homeland and the fact that they can easily visit great cities including Maastricht, Liege (Belgium) and Aachen (Germany). As you may imagine this complex culture is also reflected in the area’s wonderful food and its superb lifestyle.

But South Limburg has not always been without its challenges. This area has suffered from both a loss of major industries, unemployment, and a period of intensive low value mass tourism.

Now, however, the rainbow of green tourism is shining over South Limburg bringing pots of golden opportunities for both visitors and locals alike.

The secret? South Limburg’s communities addressed their challenges in a very pragmatic and sustainable way. They agreed and adopted 10 principles for tourism that created forms of sensitive tourism with real value for everybody.

These principles make sure that scenic views are undisturbed, historic sites are not plastered with advertising, the environment is subject to strict rules, accommodations are encouraged to be sustainable (and those that can’t are helped to leave the business), local hosts are helped to understand the tourism of the future, cycle and walking routes have been developed, renewable energies are being adopted and implemented, year-round visitor opportunities are being developed, towns, cities , villages and hamlets are making the most of their natural beauty – and much more!

The result of all this work and commitment? South Limburg now has three ‘Slow Cities – Cittaslows’ that focus on creating a good life for both citizens and visitors. It has been voted a ‘European Destination of Excellence’ and now a ‘Global Top100 Sustainable Destination’ amongst a bunch of other awards.

And now? South Limburg’s visitor economy has become a top sector with an annual turnover of over €1.2 billion and over 20,000 full time jobs.

Even more importantly, South Limburg’s sustainable tourism policies are providing both local communities and visitors with fulfilling and rewarding experiences – sustainably.

South Limburg is truly becoming a good place to live and a good place to visit.

http://greendestinations.info/top100-2016/?dest=zuid-limburg-7

http://www.vvvzuidlimburg.nl

Valere Tjolle

@ValereTjolle