Attractions and Places To See around Uxem - Top 20

The area around Uxem offers diverse natural landscapes. You can visit the Krakeelduinen Nature Reserve, a Natura 2000 area with dunes and forests undergoing natural restoration, where you might spot grazing Scottish Blackface sheep. Another option is the Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve, known for its dry dunes, moist dune pans, and a long, uninterrupted beach.

Yes, the region has several points of historical interest. The Belgium–France Border at Grenspad and 1819 Border Marker is a significant man-made monument marking the historical border, offering scenic views through the De Westhoek dune reserve. You can also find the Pier Kloeffe Statue in De Panne, a monument to the fishing industry, located near one of the widest beaches on the Belgian coast. The Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve also contains remnants of its military history.

Near Uxem, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Hiking is popular, with trails like the 'Zuydcoote Beach – long beautiful beach loop' or the 'Dewulf Dune – Our sea is beautiful loop'. For cyclists, the Maerebrug (Maere Bridge) is specifically designed for bikes, connecting parts of the Maerestraat over the Nieuwpoort–Dunkirk Canal. You can find more routes for hiking, mountain biking, and running in the guides for Hiking around Uxem, MTB Trails around Uxem, and Running Trails around Uxem.

Absolutely. The Belgium–France Border at Grenspad and 1819 Border Marker offers an interesting historical and scenic outing for families. The Pier Kloeffe Statue in De Panne is located near a wide beach, perfect for walking and playing. Additionally, the Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve provides natural trails suitable for family exploration.

The Maerebrug (Maere Bridge) is designed with soft access ramps, making it accessible for wheelchair users, cyclists, and pedestrians. The Pier Kloeffe Statue in De Panne is also noted as wheelchair accessible, located near the expansive beach.

The coastal and dune areas around Uxem are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for beach activities and enjoying the longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the natural reserves like Krakeelduinen and Dune Dewulf can be beautiful for quiet walks, especially on crisp, clear days.

Many of the natural areas and trails around Uxem are suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. The Krakeelduinen Nature Reserve and the Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve offer extensive paths through dunes and forests. The long beaches, such as those near De Panne, are also popular for dog walks, though seasonal restrictions may apply in some areas.

The duration of your visit depends on the attraction. For natural reserves like Krakeelduinen or Dune Dewulf, you could spend anywhere from 1-3 hours exploring the trails. A visit to the Belgium–France Border Marker might take 30 minutes to an hour, especially if combined with a walk in the surrounding dunes. Cycling across the Maerebrug is part of a longer cycling route, while a stop at the Pier Kloeffe Statue could be brief or extended with a beach walk.

While specific cafes directly adjacent to every nature reserve are rare, you'll find dining options in the nearby towns and coastal communities. De Panne, for example, which is close to the Pier Kloeffe Statue and the wide beach, offers various cafes and restaurants. Similarly, towns near the dune reserves and the border area will have establishments where you can refresh after your outdoor activities.

Beyond the main highlights, the broader network of paths through the coastal dunes and forests often reveals quieter spots. Exploring the less-trafficked sections of the De Westhoek dune reserve, beyond the immediate vicinity of the Belgium–France Border Marker, can lead to peaceful discoveries. The ongoing restoration efforts in areas like Krakeelduinen also create unique, evolving landscapes that feel off the beaten path.

For outdoor trips around Uxem, it's advisable to dress in layers, as coastal weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for exploring dunes and trails. A windproof and waterproof jacket is recommended, especially near the coast or during cooler months. Don't forget sun protection, even on cloudy days, and consider insect repellent for wooded areas.