This album is a declaration of love for the Dutch province of Limburg. My wife and I love long bike rides.
Limburg, the southernmost province of the Netherlands, is a true paradise for cyclists. In contrast to the flat north of the country, Limburg surprises with rolling hills, winding roads and breathtaking views over the Meuse, valleys, forests and historic villages.
The Burgundian lifestyle in the Dutch province of Limburg describes a special way of living and enjoying life – an attitude that stands for cosiness, good food, conviviality and joie de vivre. Although Limburg belongs to the Netherlands, the influence of its southern neighbours Belgium and France is clearly felt here – both in taste and mentality.
There are many legends in and around Limburg, which, combined with the unique landscape, were the inspiration for this album.
Before Sunrise:
The journey through Limburg begins with a sunrise over the Meuse.
Girl With A Silver Shoe:
In a small village, a girl with a silver shoe was once found. She brought luck to everyone who was kind to her, but woe betide anyone who mocked her: the next day, they would disappear. It is said that she was a being from another world who only appeared for a short time.
The Hidden Treasure:
Deep in the Roerwald forest lies a buried treasure trove of gold. Many have tried to unearth it, but only someone without greed can find it. Those who dig with evil intentions hear the earth rumble – and the treasure sinks deeper, as if the earth wants to protect it.
Riding Along The River:
A cycle trip along the Meuse past modern marinas and historic villages
Bells Of Bliss:
Once upon a time, a bell in Neeritter rang so brightly that it brought happiness to the village. But when the people became overconfident, the bell sank into the ground. Even today, it is believed that once a year at Easter, it rings deep underground.
The White Woman:
On clear nights, a white figure is said to appear by the water at Thorn. She wears a long dress and gazes sadly across the lake. It is said that she was once a nun who broke her vows. Now she wanders restlessly until someone prays for her.
The Whisper Of The Miller’s Daughter:
The beautiful daughter of a miller once lived in Geleen. She loved a poor farmhand, but her father wanted her to marry a rich man. On a stormy night, the lovers tried to flee. In the process, the girl fell into the mill’s grinding gear and disappeared. Since then, at night you can hear the mill grinding and a soft voice calling for her beloved.
Dance Of The Elfes:
At the Elfia Fantasy Festival, visitors to the Arcen Castle Gardens wear imaginative and flamboyant costumes, which they present to the audience.
The Monk With The Lantern:
A restless spirit is said to haunt Haelen: a monk who once broke his vows. Every night, he wanders across the monastery grounds with a lantern, searching for forgiveness. Those who follow him silently are said to find peace – those who laugh are lost in the fog.
The Buckriders:
On dark nights above the fields of Limburg, riders were once said to have been seen riding through the air on bucks. They were robbers, but it was said that they had made a pact with dark forces. Some villages swore that you could hear their hooves in the wind. To this day, it is said that during storms and full moons, distant footsteps echo across the heath – the buck riders are on their way.
Sunset:
Memories of a sundowner in a restaurant on the Meuse in Eijsden.
Return To The City Lights:
After sunset, the lights of the city appear on the journey home. The journey is over.