Fun fact: every year, Marsha helps behind the scenes at André Rieu's Christmas concerts at the MECC, where she trains the skaters who can be admired during the concerts. In this blog, she shares her personal tips. And believe us: after reading it, you will want to go exploring yourself straight away.
1. The magic of the Sint Pietersberg
For Marsha, there is one place that manages to capture her heart time and again: the Sint Pietersberg. "Especially in spring or autumn, it is at its most beautiful here," she says. "The fresh spring green on the eastern flanks and the deep red of the vineyards on Louwberg (the "opposite neighbour of Sint Pietersberg), in autumn... that colour palette is truly enchanting."
Walking the Sint Pietersberg is a must-do for anyone who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Highly recommended is the free hike and then visit Fort Sint-Pieter - this way you will not only discover nature, but also part of the area's impressive history.
2. Underground adventures in the Zonneberg
Another of Marsha's top favourites? The Zonneberg caves. "It remains magical, every time. Those huge high corridors, the silence... it almost feels like an underground cathedral." Even though she has been there many times before, each tour brings new stories and surprises.
For those who really want to experience Maastricht, a visit to the caves should not be missed. The atmosphere is unique: cool, mysterious and almost surreal. Her son has also become a fan of the underground world. Especially the caves North are his favourite. "For example, he loved doing an underground tour with friends. Especially the action elements such as sparking with a flare and crawling through narrow corridors captured his imagination. Meanwhile, he is a teenager, and by now he is also looking forward to guiding visitors around the Caves North himself in the future."
3. Enjoying at Buitengoed Slavante
After a walk or cave visit, Marsha says it is time for a well-earned break at Buitengoed Slavante. This romantic grand café is close to the Zonneberg Caves location. It has an idyllically located terrace on the mountain offers panoramic views of the Meuse, the hills of southern Limburg and even Belgium. "A cappuccino and a piece of fresh Limburg flan. It sounds cliché, but it's SO good."
The combination of nature, views and burgundy enjoyment makes Slavante a favourite stopover of many locals - and certainly Marsha and her family.
Tip: Combine ideally with a visit to the Zonneberg Caves.
4. Magical stopovers: rest, contemplation and a touch of André Rieu
On the way back from her walk on the Sint Pietersberg, Marsha invariably makes two special stopovers. First, she makes a short visit to the Lourdes grotto in Sint Pieter's district. "I always light a candle there," she says. "A little ritual, a moment of peace and reflection in the middle of nature."
Not much further away, hidden behind the greenery, is André Rieu's little castle: Huis de Torentjes. "A beautiful little castle and there is something dreamy about it, especially when you consider how much music has come to life here. It remains a special place."
Besides her work at Explore Maastricht, Marsha also plays an important role behind the scenes at André Rieu's Christmas shows. She handles the audition, training and coaching of the skaters who take to the ice during the Christmas concerts at MECC Maastricht! Months of preparation, glitter and graceful movements - a magical piece of Maastricht that Marsha proudly contributes to!
5. The soul of the city: downtown Maastricht
Marsha grew up in the heart of Maastricht, the daughter of a butcher. She remembers a time when the city still felt village-like. "I played in the streets, looked fascinated by colourful city characters and visited small shops - like a gingerbread shop run by two sisters."
She remembers well that her parents did not allow her to cross the bridge into Wyck - which only made it more exciting and mysterious. Wyck was always a lively part of town, with its first big department store. Today, it has become a real hotspot, full of charming boutiques, trendy coffee bars and stylish hotels.
Be sure to explore the city with an official guide. That way you will learn a huge amount about Maastricht's rich past, striking residents and hidden stories in a short time.
A day with Marsha: what to do in Maastricht?
Want to really experience Maastricht like a local? Then follow in Marsha's footsteps for a day:
- Start your day with a walk on St Peter's Mountain.
- Visit the caves Zonneberg or Noord for an underground adventure.
- Enjoy lunch with a view at Buitengoed Slavante.
- Light a candle in the Lourdes grotto.
- End your day with a tour of Maastricht city centre.
This mix of nature, culture, history and gastronomy makes Maastricht unique. And with tips from an insider like Marsha, you are sure to discover the best of the city.
Also on the road like Marsha?
Be surprised by real Maastricht, full of stories, views and hidden gems. Whether you go above or below ground: every step brings something special. Follow Marsha's tips and experience the city like a local. See you soon in Maastricht - where adventure and charm come together!
Simply book your tour via Explore Maastricht and discover for yourself all there is to do in this special city.