The Lourdes Grotto in Vaals was built and consecrated in 1934, with its construction made possible by donations. The grotto is hidden in the woods of the Vaalserberg. The Lourdes Grotto is located approximately 290 metres above sea level, making it the highest Lourdes Grotto in the Netherlands.
In 1990, the “Association of the Lourdes Grotto in the Forest of Vaals” established a Stations of the Cross park and a Calvery group next to the Lourdes Grotto. The park with the Stations of the Cross and the group of statues were also realised through donations. The Stations of the Cross park features 7 stations on either side, depicted on copper plates. These plates are affixed to white-painted concrete consoles. The design of the Calvery group is by Frans Griesenbrock (1918-2010), a Vaalser artist born in Bochum, Germany, who later moved to Limburg. He studied at the Jan van Eyck Academy for fine arts in Maastricht and worked extensively in South Limburg.
The Lourdes Grotto, Stations of the Cross park, and Calvarie Group are accessible daily.
Address: Vaalserbos at Gemmenicherweg 54, between border post Wolfhaag and the Vaalserberg. After the built-up area of Vaals, continue on Gemmenicherweg for approximately 500 metres. Then turn left onto a steep track for about 200 metres. After that, continue on foot and the Lourdes Grotto will be reached after 100 metres.
~~~
