I didn't have a flight or train booked for this weekend, but really wanted to do the Christmas markets, so I caught an in-country train to Valkenburg, which is a 3 hour train ride from The Hague. It's famous for its Christmas markets, which are in caves under the Valkenburg castle:
There are 3 caves with markets - I made it to two of them. The first was the municipal cave, which has Christmas displays on every corner.
And Christmas trees down every pathway
And wine bars in the corners (and vaguely close to Texas flag displays)
And wildlife displays
And booths lining the halls
And general cheery atmosphere
And of course polar bears.
This is the second cave, the Velvet Cave, which also had relics of artwork in it from the period when the castle was active. These relics were incorporated into the Christmas decorations...
It wouldn't be Holland without selling some bulbs. These were some crazy flowers by the looks of all the pictures.
Creepy Santa sneaking into a house
I think if you are under the heart, you must kiss.
These markets were less about Christmas goodies and more about general gifts (I saw some "As Seen on TV" products). But the atmosphere was great again. I didn't buy anything on this trip, but still had a great time. Stopped in a pub on the way back to the train station for schnitzel and Christmas beer. Finished a book and watched the Christmas parade.
I didn't make it in time, but want to see the sand sculptures next time.
O come, O come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
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