Ulestraten-Bron, Sint Catharinastraat, Netherlands

## Overview Ulestraten-Bron is a public drinking spring located along Sint Catharinastraat in the village of Ulestraten, part of the municipality of Meerssen in the southern Dutch province of Limburg. Situated in the gently rolling hills of South Limburg — one of the few regions in the otherwise flat Netherlands where natural springs emerge — this spring is a testament to the area's unique geological character. South Limburg sits atop layers of limestone, marl, and loess deposited over millions of years. Rainwater percolates through these porous formations, filtering naturally before resurfacing as springs. The Ulestraten area, nestled between the Geul and Maas river valleys, has long been known for its groundwater sources, and springs like this one have historically served local communities as reliable freshwater supplies. The village of Ulestraten itself dates back centuries, with its name and the nearby Sint Catharinakerk (Saint Catherine's Church) reflecting deep roots in the region's Catholic heritage. While no formal water quality analysis is available for this particular spring, it has historically been used as a public drinking water source by locals and visitors. As with any natural spring, water conditions can vary, and the spring has not been independently verified for potability. ## Directions 1. The spring is located on **Sint Catharinastraat** in the village of **Ulestraten**, within the municipality of Meerssen, Limburg, Netherlands. 2. Use GPS coordinates **50.903473, 5.776631** for precise navigation. 3. From the center of Ulestraten, head along Sint Catharinastraat. The spring is accessible from the street and can be spotted at or near the roadside. 4. If coming from Maastricht (approximately 8 km to the southwest), take the N278 northeast toward Meerssen, then follow local signs toward Ulestraten. 5. Parking is available along the village streets. The spring is within easy walking distance once you arrive in the village. ## What to Expect Ulestraten-Bron is a modest, community-oriented spring typical of the South Limburg countryside. Visitors will find a publicly accessible water source set within the charming, quiet village of Ulestraten. The surrounding area features traditional Limburg architecture — half-timbered and marl-stone houses — along with green pastures and gentle hillsides. The spring is easy to reach on foot from the street, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and mobility levels. South Limburg is a popular area for hiking and cycling, with numerous marked trails (including sections of the famous Pieterpad long-distance trail) passing through the region. A visit to the spring pairs well with a broader exploration of the area's rolling landscapes, historic villages, and local cuisine. The village of Ulestraten is small and peaceful, offering a genuine taste of rural Dutch life far removed from the flat polders most people associate with the Netherlands. Nearby points of interest include the town of Meerssen, the Geul river valley, and the caves of Valkenburg.