Cave new world of festive markets

It may only be November but festivities are in full swing, with Christmas markets decorating our high streets with wooden chalets, assorted wreaths, seasonal treats and the scent of spiced mulled wine.

- By AMY JONES

There's a catalogue of markets to visit across Europe for a wintery weekend getaway, and there's one that takes just over four hours to get to by train, that is held completely underground.

In the charming Dutch town of Valkenburg, you can find Europe's largest underground Christmas market in the Municipal Cave.

Visitors can wander through the ancient passageways of the cave, adorned with colourful, twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and figures like Father Christmas, creating an enchanting and magical atmosphere.

Beyond the decorations that bring festive cheer, around 50 stands offer a wide choice of Christmas gifts and goodies for something extra special, or you can purchase an ornament to hang on your tree back home.

The experience of wandering around the cave and its winding corridors is what makes this Christmas market so extraordinary, so it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most famous in Europe.