The best MTB trails in Natuurreservaat De Westhoek

Wooden plank floor is being renovated, autumn 2025

A nature reserve with a rare wealth of fauna and flora unequaled in Belgium, except in the Zwin nature reserve. The freshwater of the Yser, the only river in Belgium that flows directly into the North Sea, mixes with the salty seawater. Tidal action has created a unique mudflat and salt marsh area, an ideal breeding ground for a rich variety of benthic organisms such as worms, snails, seaweed, shells, and crustaceans. The constant interaction between salt and freshwater in the Yser estuary also creates a unique biotope, characterized by salt-tolerant plants such as samphire, sea plantain, and sea aster. Source: https://www.dekust.be/natuurreservaat-de-ijzermonding

Eastduinkerke

A magnificent viewpoint on the edge of the nature reserve. Climb this platform and be tempted to dive into the dunes. Hiking trails lead you through an oasis of tranquility.

The 'Kykhill' lookout point in De Panne offers breathtaking views of the Dumont district. The Dumont district is a historic neighborhood with numerous coastal villas. Almost the entire district is exclusively pedestrianized. History: The Kykhill is the highest existing dune in De Panne. The name "viewing hill" is no coincidence. Thanks to its elevated position, the Kykhill was traditionally the preferred location of fisherwomen who watched the approaching fishing boats. They did this so they could help unload the nets as quickly as possible. Numerous residential buildings were built around this hill, giving it a truly sophisticated character. At the beginning of the twentieth century, the first villas appeared on the hill, which can still be admired today. During the reconstruction, its former function as a viewing hill was also preserved: a viewing platform was built atop the dune area, offering a beautiful view of the Dumont district and the sea.

A literal highlight in the center of De Panne. It's worth reaching this high point. Beautiful views are your reward. History: The Kykhill is the highest existing dune in De Panne. The name "viewing hill" is no coincidence. Thanks to its elevated position, the Kykhill was traditionally the preferred location of fisherwomen who watched the approaching fishing boats. They did this so they could help unload the nets as quickly as possible. Many residential buildings were built around this hill, giving it a truly sophisticated character. At the beginning of the twentieth century, the first villas even appeared on the hill, which can still be admired today. During the reconstruction, its former function as a viewing hill was also not forgotten: a viewing platform was built atop the dune area, offering a beautiful view of the Dumont district and the sea.

Centuries ago, one of the two mills of Ten Duinen Abbey stood here, and today stands the South Abbey Mill. The current South Abbey Mill of Koksijde dates from 1773 and originally stood in Houtem near Veurne (the Lootvoet mill). It was demolished there in 1951-1952 and rebuilt in Koksijde in 1953. Miller Patrick Geryl remains the only remaining full-time miller in Belgium. Anyone who visits the mill will be captivated by his every word: he'll happily give you a tour of his habitat: the South Abbey Mill. Feel the wind play with the mill, see how the grain is ground into flour, and smell the history. Highly recommended! Practical information: Individuals can visit the South Abbey Mill during regular opening hours from April to September. €2 for an adult, €1 for minors. Mill address: Jaak Van Buggenhoutlaan 120 (near the Abbey Museum). Intrigued? Click through to https://www.tenduinen.be/nl/beklim-de-zuid-abdijmolen

Pretty cycle path along the dike