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Places of interest #2 in Aachen

The Three Country Point NL / BE / DE

4.4 · 11,913 reviews
Open-air, educational, and recreational.
The Three Country Point NL / BE / DE, Rte des Trois Bornes, 4851 Vaals
Interesting facts
1

From 1830 to 1919, the site was technically a 'four-country point' because the neutral territory of Moresnet existed between Belgium and Prussia.

2

The official summit of the Vaalserberg is located just a few meters inside the Netherlands.

3

A monument commemorating the location's significance was inaugurated in 1928.

4

The borders at this point were defined by the Treaty of London in 1839 following the independence of Belgium.

5

The area contains a distinct 'Wilhelminatoren' tower, the third iteration of a lookout tower built on this specific summit.

Overview

The Three Country Point, known as Drielandenpunt, marks the intersection of the borders of the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. Situated atop the Vaalserberg, it stands at 322.5 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in the European Netherlands. The site features a stone pillar identifying the precise tripoint coordinates. Historical border markers from the 19th century are located in the immediate vicinity. The area includes a labyrinth, a playground, and an observation tower that provides views over the surrounding three-country landscape. It is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists exploring the border region near Aachen. The terrain surrounding the point is heavily forested and integrated into a broader network of nature trails.

Photo spot

Standing directly at the center stone marker where the three national borders converge.

Insider tips

Bring sturdy footwear if planning to explore the surrounding forest trails beyond the monument.

Visit the observation tower for an elevated perspective of the border geography.

Check weather conditions beforehand, as the high-elevation summit can be significantly windier than the surrounding plains.

What to avoid

Do not mistake the various historical border markers scattered nearby for the actual current tripoint monument.

Good to know

The labyrinth and observation tower may have restricted access during winter months or extreme weather conditions.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in late spring or early autumn to avoid heavy tourist congestion.
Address
The Three Country Point NL / BE / DE, Rte des Trois Bornes, 4851 Vaals
50.754, 6.021
Get directions
Details
Geographical SignificanceHighest point in the European Netherlands
Recreational FeaturesObservation tower and hedge maze

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in late spring or early autumn to avoid heavy tourist congestion..

Standing directly at the center stone marker where the three national borders converge.

Close by you'll find Wilhelmina Towers, Landal Hoog Vaals, Aachen Cathedral.