What to do at the Belgian coast?
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- What to do at the Belgian Coast?
The Belgian coast lies on the North Sea in the Flemish part of Belgium and stretches for about 65 kilometres from De Panne in the south-west to Knokke-Heist in the north-east. This coastline is known for its wide sandy beaches and lively seaside villages. This makes it a popular destination for both domestic and foreign tourists. From Dune Hotel in Nieuwpoort, you can explore the Belgian coast extensively. We would therefore like to tell you more about what you can do at the Belgian coast.
The best sights on the Belgian coastline
First of all, nice sights on the Belgian coast are of course the various seaside villages found along the coastline. All places have a pretty beach where you can relax extensively. Cosy promenades with all kinds of restaurants and beach bars run along these beaches. Furthermore, you can buy all kinds of nice souvenirs in the villages as a memory of your visit to the Belgian coast. However, there are specific attractions in the towns and their surroundings that should not be missed. We would like to highlight some of them for you:
Cartoon statues in Middelkerke
In the town of Middelkerke, you can discover eighteen bronze statues of cartoon characters. On the dyke promenade, you can come across Jerom, Landbik, Suske and Wiske and Smurffin, among others. Super fun to take a photo with.
Simliduinen in Nieuwpoort
The Simliduinen are a unique dune area where you can walk or cycle perfectly. The area is home to special flora and fauna. Admire the blooming dune roses in spring and the golden yellow marram grasses in summer. For birdwatchers, the Simliduinen offer an excellent location to observe various bird species, especially during migration periods.
Blankenberge pier
This iconic pier stretches into the North Sea and offers stunning views of the coastline. Enjoy a walk on the pier, visit the restaurant, take part in an event or admire an exhibition.
Atlantic Wall Raversyde in Oostende
This open-air museum is one of the best-preserved parts of the Atlantic Wall. This was an extensive defence line built by the Germans during World War II. The museum includes bunkers, trenches and other military structures.
Het Zwin in Knokke-Heist
Het Zwin is a nature park in Knokke-Heist and known as the "international airport for birds". It is an important tidal area where many bird species land during migration periods. Here you can take beautiful walks through nature and visit the educational visitor centre.
Activities not to miss at the Belgian coast
In addition to these beautiful sights, there are many other activities you should not miss while visiting the Belgian coast. For example, how about a visit to the theme park Plopsaland de Panne? Stand eye-to-eye with your famous heroes from Studio100 and take a dizzying ride on The Ride To Happiness rollercoaster. And don't forget to visit the Plopsaqua water park next to Plopsaland de Panne.
Prefer to take it a bit easier? Then visit the Mu.ZEE. This museum in Oostende is dedicated to Belgian art from the 19th century to the present day. It offers an in-depth insight into the development of the Belgian art scene, with works by James Ensor, Léon Spilliaert and many others.
During a holiday at the Belgian coast, don't forget to take a ride on the coastal tram. This is the longest tramway in the world, connecting all coastal towns from De Panne to Knokke. This makes it easy to explore different parts of the coast without the use of a car.
Furthermore, while staying at the coast, it is fun to take a boat trip. Enjoy the waves and sail past sights such as the nature reserve 'De IJzermonding' and the beautiful marina of Nieuwpoort.
Discover the Belgian coast from Dune Hotel in Nieuwpoort
From Dune Hotel in Nieuwpoort, the Belgian coast is at your feet. Walk through the Simliduinen, discover the marina or hop on the coastal tram towards another fun seaside town. How about a delicious meal in Middelkerke and then a visit to Atlantikwall Raversyde? Of course, an adventurous day at Plopsaland should not be missed either, or do you prefer a relaxing walk or bike ride? Everything is possible from Dune Hotel. Book your stay now.