Walking in Meuse Valley River Park: Leut walking route
Walking in Meuse Valley River Park: Leut walking route
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Start: Village square in Leut
The starting signal for our walk echoes around Leut village square, a characteristic Meuse village in the province of Limburg. On this square, we see St Peter's church and a village pump that still works and is circled by three majestic linden trees. This is the beating heart of the village, where locals like to come for a chat or a game of boules.
A picturesque mill
We quickly encounter an impressive mill, known as Nieuw Leven (New Life). Back in the 17th century, there was already a mill here, called ‘De Wachter’ (The Sentinel). After being knocked down by a tornado in 1800, it was replaced by the present one. The construction is a half-open post mill. In those days it was part of the estate belonging to the Vilain XIIII family. This windmill became a protected monument as early as 1945. Following restoration in 1995, it is working perfectly again. You can visit this fine example of heritage twice a month.
The Vilain XIIII estate
We now arrive at the stately Leut Castle. It is named Vilain XIIII, after Charles Vilain XIIII. In 1822, he married a local baroness, thus becoming lord of the castle. They had seven daughters. Writing ‘XIIII’ rather than ‘XIV’ for the Roman numeral 14 is remarkable, and was a conscious choice to preserve this historic way of writing the family surname. The castle itself is impressive, and the surrounding castle estate even more so. This park with English landscaping holds the unique collection of rare trees gathered by Vilain XIIII. Along an ancient greenery corridor, you can stroll to the place where castle count Vilain XIIII commissioned the planting of seven copper beech trees, one for each daughter. Three of these mighty trees have stood the test of time. They stand here tall and proud. During the summer months, you can enjoy a bite to eat and savour local wine on the inner courtyard in Gastrobar Viertien. Pass the rare trees on your way towards the river Meuse, which today forms a border, but for centuries was an important connection between the villages and hamlets on both sides. Leut is actually positioned halfway between Maastricht and Maaseik.
Roaming through Maesbempder Greend
After a short break, we continue to the Struin nature reserve Maesbempder Greend, a 'roaming area' without signposted hiking trails where you are free to wander. So, wander away. Right in the middle of this area, there is an old gravel lake, nestled in an ancient Meuse river bed. This neatly annexes Mazenhoven, one of the nature areas in the Meuse valley. You can roam freely there too. Large grazing animals, such as the Galloway cattle and Konik horses, do well in controlling nature. This also produces some beautiful sights during your walk!
Panoramas at Mazenhoven chapel
At Mazenhoven chapel we enjoy a panoramic view across the floodplains towards the Meuse (the area between a river and the dyke that is submerged at high tide) and we also get a little history lesson. This small chapel was built back in 1894, probably on behalf of two baronesses. Georgine de Brigode and Philippine de Villeneuve were two daughters of castle count Charles Vilain XIIII. Above the portal we recognise the coat of arms of the families Vilain and Billehé, Charles' wife. Inside the chapel we see a beautiful statue of Our Lady of Victory. It is a faithful plaster replica of the statue in Notre Dame des Victoirs, the basilica in Paris.
Reflection: Art on the Meuse
Besides unspoilt nature, you will also find some artistic additions along this river. Art on the Meuse has installed five artworks here. Reflection now stands on the very spot where a ferry once connected the two banks. This sound sculpture is a tribute to the lost ferry crossing. Resting on the two granite benches, there is a sound bar which you may strike. Producing a low tone. This recalls the bell at the old ferry crossing. A wonderful moment of calm, connection and contemplation.
Arrival: Leut
After a long walk brimming with experiences, we return towards Leut, tired but content. Here, we continue sharing the fun memories of our hiking adventure. What a wonderful walk!
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