Weekend Belgian Coast: the best scenic and culinary tips | Casapilot

The Belgian coast is perfect for a short getaway – whether as a couple, with family, or with friends. Close by and full of surprises, it offers numerous beautiful spots and exciting experiences. In this article, you’ll find tips for places to visit and activities to enjoy. By the way, our ideas are not only great for weekends but also for a midweek holiday.

The 67 km long Belgian coast includes 13 seaside resorts, each with its own character. Ostend is a lively city full of culture and history. Prefer something quieter? Then De Haan or Koksijde are charming alternatives with Belle Époque flair and relaxing beaches. For a few days on the Belgian coast with children, Nieuwpoort or Blankenberge are highly recommended – both offer plenty of family activities.

A special experience along the Belgian coast is a ride on the Coastal Tram, which connects the entire coastline from Knokke to De Panne. It is the longest tram line in the world and a relaxed way to visit several places in a short time.

In addition to the wide beaches and the seaside promenade, there are countless hiking trails that take you through dunes, forests, nature reserves, and historic sites. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Dune Forest Hike – De Haan/Wenduine
   About 9 km through dune forest, dunes, and sandy paths, with sea views. Quiet, flat, and natural.

2. Westhoek Hike – De Panne
   Through the oldest dune area on the Belgian coast (5 or 11 km). High chance of spotting deer and birds.

3. Zwin Hiking Route – Knokke-Heist
   3–8 km in the Zwin Nature Park, with mudflats, salt marshes, observation huts, and many migratory birds.

4. Polder Hike – Nieuwpoort – Ramskapelle
   About 10 km through flat polder landscapes with locks, farms, chapels, and a fish market.

5. Historic City Walk – Ostend
   Cultural walk past the Kursaal, Venetian Galleries, James Ensor House, and the fishermen’s quarter.

Would you prefer to explore the Belgian coast on two wheels instead of on foot? The Coastal Cycle Route offers 85 km of signposted bike paths along the sea, dunes, and polders. You can easily rent a bike in almost any seaside resort.

In addition to beaches and nature, the Belgian coast also offers numerous cultural and architectural highlights:

• In Ostend: Visit the James Ensor House, admire the Art Deco Kursaal, and discover modern street art via The Crystal Ship.
• In Raversyde, you’ll find the Atlantic Wall – a well-preserved German bunker line from World War II.
• De Haan enchants with Belle Époque villas in the Concessie district.
• Blankenberge impresses with Art Nouveau façades and an iconic pier from 1933.
• In Nieuwpoort, the old town and the belfry bear witness to a rich history.

Many seaside resorts also offer cultural walks or open-air art exhibitions.

A weekend on the Belgian coast wouldn’t be complete without treating your taste buds. Be sure to try:

• Shrimp croquettes: made with hand-peeled North Sea shrimp, creamy filling, and a crispy crust.
• Fresh fish of the day: such as sole or plaice, often served with butter sauce or fresh from the grill.
• Mussels with fries: a steaming pot with garlic, white wine, fries, and a cold beer.
• Seafood platters: including oysters, crab, whelks, shrimp, and lobster.
• Sweets: fresh waffles, babelutten (soft butter caramels), and sea buckthorn products.

Just a few kilometres from the coast, you’ll find peace and historical charm. Here are some tips:

• Veurne: Market square with stepped gables and a belfry (UNESCO), perfect for enjoying a coffee on the terrace.
• Lo-Reninge: A small town with quiet streets and polder landscapes ideal for walking.
• Diksmuide: Known for the Yser Tower, which can be combined with a walk along the Yser River.
• Damme: A book town near Knokke-Heist with canal cycle paths and a charming market square.

Here you’ll find luxurious holiday homes, villas, and apartments on or within a short distance of the coast. Available to rent from two nights.