There is something about borders that I find fascinating. The crossing of them never loses its novelty. So imagine how excited I was when I discovered there’s an incredible and easily accessible Three Country Border in Europe where you can stand in three countries at once.
It’s called the Drielandenpunt and it’s where Germany, The Netherlands and Belgium meet.
If you’re visiting Western Germany,the South of the Netherlands or Eastern Belgium this is an unusual and memorable stop to add to your itinerary.
Where is the Three Country Border?
The Three Country Border ( Drielandenpunt ) is located near:
Aachen in Germany
Vaals in the Netherlands
Gemmenich in Belgium
The actual meeting point of the borders sits on the Vaalserberg hill, which also happens to be the highest point in the Netherlands.
Despite being the connecting point of three countries, the area has a really laid back and rural feel. It’s a woodland, open spaces, stretch the legs and get some fresh air kind of a place. There’s also some fun activities and places to grab a coffee and a bite to eat if you want to.
Things to See & Do at Europe’s Three Country Border
The Stone Border Marker
The three country border is marked by a stone pillar, alongside the flags of each nation and lines on the ground showing the actual border.
This is your chance to leap from country to country, or take a picture of yourself in three places at once. How? a foot in two countries and a little bit of a stretch to get a hand in the third!
Conveniently, we had three of our four children with us on this trip so were able to stand them in different countries for a picture. A pretty unique way to take a family photo!
The Viewing Tower
For panoramic views of the place where three countries meet, head up to the top of the viewing tower. The climb is a bit of an effort, but the views across the surrounding countryside of Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium are worth it.
Get Lost in the Labyrinth
A fun thing to do for all ages and keeper of a fascinating, almost-lost bit of history.
The labyrinth itself is genuinely good fun and not as easy as you might think. It’s aimed at families, but definitely a challenge! There’s a few quirky touches along the way, including dead ends and water features.
The Drielandenpunt comes with a British connection:The Drielanden Labyrinth was actually designed by British landscape artist, Adrian Fisher and was created by planting 17,000 shrubs.
The aim is to get to the tower in the centre, known as the ‘Fourth Lost Land’. This isn’t a work of fantasy- until 1919 the three border point was a four border point, as it included the tiny neutral territory of Amekijo. An interactive show in the tower brings the story of this forgotten place back to life.
The plaza by the Labyrinth has some places to grab a bite to eat, coffee or an ice cream. Where else can you casually wander through three countries, coffee in hand?
Labyrinth tickets €13.50 adult/ €9.00 child if booking ahead and online.
Hiking & Walking Trails
The area around the border point is wooded, rural and criss-crossed with walking trails. You’ll find some interesting features along the way, including markers along the borders that allow you to plant a foot in each country.
For a longer walk with some interesting features, try the 10k Dreilandpunt-Vijlenerbos hike; it includes forest path, the Lourdes cave of Vaals, a castle and an observation tower. A great way to get a feel for this unusual corner of Europe.
If you’re visiting in Autum / Winter, pack sturdy shoes or hiking boots. It gets pretty muddy. I was wearing baby pink Nikes. Don’t be me!
Tips for Visiting the Three Country Border
- Allow around 1-2.5 hours if you just want to see the border point and enjoy the labyrinth. You could make a full day of this area if you’re hiking.
- The Three Country Border makes a great day trip if combined with exploring the nearby city of Aachen.
- This area is most easily accessed by car, parking available at €3 per vehicle.
Is the Three Country Border/ Drielandenpunt Worth Visiting?
Honestly, I’d say yes but with the right expectations. This isn’t a full day destination in itself, but a fun place to visit if you’re in the area or spending time in near by Aachen. The Three Country Border is perfect for:
- Visiting an unusual point of geography in an area with an interesting history.
- Getting fun photos using the border markers
- A fun add-on to a city break in Aachen
- A great place to break a longer journey – much more fun than motorway services!
- A great beginning and end point for hiking in the area- plenty of inexpensive parking.
Where to Stay in Aachen
Aachen- the westermost city in Germany- is just a twenty minute drive from the Three Country Border and makes a great base for exploring. It’s got pretty walks, great bakeries, an iconic cathedral and a great spa scene.
Aachen even has it’s very own biscuit. We loved discovering it, find out more here!
When visiting Aachen, we have always enjoyed wonderful stays at Novotel Aachen City. Perfect for a family break, or for couples looking for a comfortable stay without blowing the budget.
I particularly like the friendliness of the staff, the walkable location and the great buffet breakfast. It’s also great that this hotel has on-site private parking.
View & Check Availability for Novotel Aachen City Here
Helen x
Almost like making a trip for yourself right? Love this idea! It’s probably something you can only really do in Europe! I miss Europe 🇹🇭
Moving so freely within Europe certainly does make for a great experience. Neighbouring countries can be so different and yet you can just hop between them. I hope you’ll get back to European shores one day. Thanks for stopping by!
Me too! I’m from the UK so hope to get home one day 😂 You’re welcome. And you have the cutest kids btw!