We meet at the airport at 2.00pm for our KM Malta Airlines flight to Brussels departing at 4.30pm, arriving at 7.35pm. On arrival we are transferred to our 4-star hotel in Valkenburg, a charming Dutch town.

Today’s excursion will start by exploring Valkenburg, known for its castle ruins and historic marlstone buildings. We stroll through the old lanes past the Grendelpoort gate, and later visit the Velvet Cave (Fluweelengrot), an underground network beneath the castle ruins with wall drawings, hidden passages, and a small WWII shelter exhibit. In the afternoon we will have free time to enjoy the cafés and shops, relax in town or take an easy riverside stroll along the River Geul, starting directly from the centre, offering peaceful scenery and photo opportunities.

Today’s excursion will take us into Belgium’s Ardennes region, known for its forested hills and medieval villages. Our destination is La Roche-en-Ardenne, nestled along the Ourthe River. Here we will visit the Feudal Castle of La Roche (extra or view from outside) — a 9th-century fortress overlooking the town. Afterwards will have some free time to stroll through the quaint streets or enjoy a Belgian chocolate or waffle at a riverside café. Later in the afternoon we will take a scenic drive through the Ourthe Valley, stopping for some photos at the forest lookouts or quaint river bridges, before returning to Valkenburg.

During today’s excursion, we cross into Germany to visit Aachen, known for its imperial history and spa culture. We will visit the UNESCO-listed Aachen Cathedral, famous for its 8th-century origins, Byzantine mosaics and the Octagonal Palatine Chapel. Free time follows in the old town for coffee or browsing the shops. We then continue through the scenic Eifel region to Monschau, a postcard-perfect town known for its half-timbered houses and riverside charm. With around two hours at leisure, to wander the cobbled lanes, browse artisan and mustard shops, or relax with a slice of apple strudel at a local café. Late afternoon, we proceed to Vaalserberg, the highest point in the Netherlands at the meeting point of three countries – Germany, Belgium & Netherlands. One may walk through the Three-Country Point Park or, optionally, climb the Drielandenpunt Tower for panoramic views.

On our last day, we will be visiting the elegant city of Maastricht, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. We will walk through the historic centre, seeing Vrijthof Square, Helpoort (the oldest surviving gate in the Netherlands), and the Maas river promenade. After some free time for lunch (extra) we will head to Brussels Airport for our return KM Malta Airlines flight departing at 8.25pm and arriving in Malta at 11.20pm.