FAQ

Want to avoid surprises? Then read through our frequently asked questions first.

Frequently asked questions

How can I buy my ticket and do I need to book?

At MergelRijk you can online and buy your ticket at the box office. Due to our flow-through system, there is always space. Due to staff and visitor safety, there is no cash available. You can only pay at the box office pay by debit/credit card, or buy your ticket online in advance.

From what age is MergelRijk suitable?

MergelRijk is very suitable for everyone and for all ages! Adults enjoy the many historical and informative stories and the beautiful marl and sand sculptures. Children receive a treasure hunt with which they can discover MergelRijk in an educational but playful way. The treasure hunt is also fun to do together with the family or grandparents! And working with marl in the cave workshop is also great fun for all ages.

How long does a visit last on average?

With adults, a visit takes 1 to 1.5 hours on average. If small children are present, a visit takes 1.5 to 2 hours on average.

Is MergelRijk accessible with a pram or buggy?

For safety reasons, we advise against taking a large pushchair into the cave. You will need to
namely up and down two flights of stairs. A small, light, portable buggy can be taken along without any problems, provided that you
that you can safely carry up and down stairs yourself. This is done at your own risk in all cases.

What is the temperature and are there any clothing tips?

At MergelRijk, you go underground! Here the temperature is about 15-18 degrees Celsius. So there's no need to dress extra warm, it's not that cold. Wear shoes that allow you to walk safely on a bumpy floor, so for most people that means no high heels or flip-flops.

Is MergelRijk accessible for wheelchairs, walkers or mobility scooters?

The quarry can only be accessed via a staircase. Unfortunately, this means that MergelRijk is not wheelchair accessible.
or mobility scooter. Exception: if you are able to climb stairs independently and have a carer lift your wheelchair or walker, it is possible to enter the cave with a lightweight wheelchair. There is one staircase with 24 steps and another with 11 steps.

Are dogs allowed?

Dogs are also welcome in MergelRijk, provided they are kept on a short leash and dry.

Are there toilets in MergelRijk?

Yes indeed, inside the cave are toilets you can go to throughout the visit, except for the first 10
minutes.

Where can I park?

There are several places in the area where you can park. Directly opposite MergelRijk you can park parking at a daily rate in the car park of the Steenkolenmijn. On Daalhemerweg towards the town centre and in the town centre itself, you can park at all sorts of places along the road or in car parks at an hourly rate. hourly rate. On busy holiday days it can be difficult to find a parking space nearby, as then everywhere the case if you want to park somewhere close by. Then park in the car park on top of the Cauberg near Holland Casino. There is always space there. It is also one of the only places where you can park a camper van or bus properly in Valkenburg. parking in Valkenburg.

Is photography/filming allowed?

Taking photos for private use is allowed. It is not permitted to film in MergelRijk without prior written consent. (Semi-)professional photography and publication of photographs for professional or commercial purposes or (online) publications are not allowed without prior written permission.

Do I need a torch?

No, the cave is well lit. So a torch is not necessary! Only in the Thomas Didden quarry in the cave, is
it is still as dark as when the block breakers were working there 300 years ago. Without a torch, it is
extra exciting there!

What is it like if you suffer from claustrophobia?

MergelRijk is the only cave that is well lit (except in the cinema) and the only cave in which you can move around freely move around without depending on a group or guide. So you can also always get to the exit easily and quickly. It is of course very personal, but from those with claustrophobia who have gone in, we hear almost only positive experiences that it was a good experience.

Is the museum card valid at MergelRijk?

The Museumjaarkaart is not valid at MergelRijk.

Can I eat and drink at MergelRijk?

Bottled water, soft drinks, coffee, and tea are available at the cash desk until 3 p.m.
On our outdoor terrace, visitors to MergelRijk are welcome to take a break, even with their own lunch.

Do you also organise children's parties?

Coming to MergelRijk with your children's party is super fun! No separate arrangement is needed. You can just buy regular tickets and come during the opening hours. With a children's party you will spend about 2 hours here.

Is there also a Christmas market in MergelRijk?

MergelRijk is known as the most beautiful Christmas cave in Valkenburg because of its wonderful Christmas stories, activities, atmosphere and decorations. There is no market with stalls in this cave. The Christmas markets with stalls are in the Fluweelengrot and the Gemeentegrot. There is a separate entrance fee for all caves and Christmas markets in the caves.