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For long, Dutch, Belgian and German tourists have discovered the beautiful surroundings of this region and of Epen in particular. Although only some 740 locals live in the village itself today, or 1120 when the surrounding area is added to that number, there are plenty of options to stay, eat and drink.
Epen is part of the municipality of Gulpen-Wittem, with [wiki=c7c6b7009da17e5c9a72b92c82c19377]Gulpen[/wiki] and [wiki=a08ea0222fb037a463e0df1cea88bda4]Wittem[/wiki] obviously being the primary towns. The Belgian border is at walking distance, allowing for lovely cross-border hikes to the Belgian villages on the other side. The river Geul passes through Epen, leaving zinc and other specific elements in the soils it touches. It is therefore that Zinkviooltjes, a rare kind of violets, and other rare, zinc-loving plants are found here.
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History
In medieval times, the Epen territory belonged to the Carolingian kings. First written evidence of the settlement dates back to 1041, when it is mentioned in an akt of the Roman king Hendrik under the name "Apine". In 1056 Hendrik, then German Emperor, gives a number of goods in "villa Apensis" to the abbey of Burtscheid, to which they belong until 1794. Some believe that poverty, due to the many passing armies and the effects of war, are the reason why so many timber framed houses in the area remain.
* The tourist information office has a good range of maps and other information. They can also assist in finding a place to stay.
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There are basically 3 roads leading to the village, in the directions of nearby Vaals, Mechelen/Partij and Slenaken.
*Coming from the N278 (e.g. from [wiki=fbd67929262943f070acb32df45c4040]Maastricht[/wiki]), leave that road at [wiki=ce4ddea2bcf14ff01298ae0a50427105]Partij[/wiki] and follow signs for Mechelen and Epen. Bus line 57 connects Epen to [wiki=c7c6b7009da17e5c9a72b92c82c19377]Gulpen[/wiki] and [wiki=fbd67929262943f070acb32df45c4040]Maastricht[/wiki].
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To see the best of town, you'll have to see the outskirts and the surrounding natural areas and hamlets. Hiking is a great way to enjoy some peace and quiet as well a good views, since you can take the many small walking paths around. However, prepare for a fairly long and at times tiring hike through the hilly area. The same goes for exploring Epen's surroundings on a normal bike. Alternatively, reserve an electric bike from Wingbergermolen (Terpoorterweg 4, +31 (0)43-4559110, [http://www.wingbergermolen.nl]. A car is another good option, but you'll need to head to Valkenburg, Maastricht or Heerlen to rent one.
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The village church is dedicated to St. Paulus and still in use. It was build in 1840-1841.
* Timber framed houses that are typical for [wiki=5016e1cc999f4b33689aa55ce728c959]South Limburg[/wiki], are especially common in Epen and the surrounding villages. You'll see them when you walk around. The Wilhelminastraat has several, some of them being national heritage sites.
*This watermill along the river Geul was build in 1844, but renovations in the 20th century changed the looks of it.
*This 18th century watermill on a side stream of the Geul was originally build as a fulling mill. It is located in the hamlet of Plaat, near Epen. It was part of the then blooming cloth industry in [wiki=83cdce5b4f5b8b6b5d12a582f7573a00]Vaals[/wiki]. In the 1830's, after not being used for years, a German by the name of Johann Wilhelm Kannengiesser changed it into a wool spinning mill. After it was destroyed twice in fires, it was sold and changed into a grain mill. Following the Second World War, the mill became abandoned. In the 1970's, it was renovated and brought back into action as a grain mill, which it still is today.
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The obvious activity around and the main reason for many tourists to come to Epen. By bike, electric bike, vespa or car - touring the surroundings with the occasional stop for a picture, picknick or coffee is a lovely thing to do.
*Another highly popular way to see the best of this area is simply on foot. The tourist information office has routes and maps for any kind of hike: from just a few, till a hundred kilometer or more.
*There's a sheep shepherd farm just outside Epen. In winter and early spring, the sheep are inside, where they have theirs lambs. In summer, they help in the maintenance of the surrounding grass fields. In January, you can witness the shaving of the sheep (check the website for dates). Not much later the first lambs are born. You can visit on weekends during this period. The shepherd gives group demonstrations in summer (but you have to call ahead) and there's a small shop.
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At the sheep shepherd's farm, a range of wool products are for sale. The tourist information offices sales some souvenirs and regional products.
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Housed in an ancient water mill, this charming place serves simple but good food. Try the regional stew: zuurvlees. Wingbergermolen also rent out two group accommodation apartments for 6 -8 people.
*It's the beautiful view that attracts so many travelers to this place, but the food is reasonable too. The service is fast and the terrace fills up quickly. The restaurant is part of a 3 start hotel.
*A pancake restaurant, as they are common in the Netherlands. You'll find a broad range of sweet and savory pancakes as well as typical Dutch poffertjes.
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There are plenty of lodging options in Epen and the villages and hamlets around. Camping is very popular around here, with camping grounds varying from basic ones with 5-10 places to large ones with lots of facilities. Chalets, advertised as "vakantiehuis(jes)", are also common. The best ones are booked full rapidly so if possible, try to book months in advance. Especially if you're traveling with a group or family, camping or chalets are convenient and good-value options. Nevertheless, if you prefer a hotel, pension or bed&breakfast, you'll find those as well. Again, try to book in advance.
*Simple, clean rooms in a friendly hotel that is popular among hikers. Some rooms have private bathrooms but others don't, so ask when you make your reservations.
*A small distance from Epen, near the hamlet Terziet, this friendly family-run hotel offers good rooms with private bathrooms and balconies.
*This place has been around since 1931 and offers luxurious hotel rooms and apartments for up to 6 people, some with a great view.
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[wiki=94e94df773c217e3e75b66fc59c1601a]nl:Epen[/wiki]
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