Top 20 Lakes around Sluis
Best lakes around Sluis are primarily characterized by unique coastal water bodies and intertidal ecosystems, rather than traditional inland freshwater lakes. The region, part of Zeeland in the Netherlands, features dynamic landscapes shaped by the North Sea. These areas support diverse flora and fauna, particularly significant bird populations. Visitors can explore these natural environments through walking and cycling routes.
Best lakes around Sluis
- The most popular lakes is The Zwin Nature Reserve, a natural monument that functions as a slufter, a beach plain behind dunes with open connection to the sea. This area is known for its unique saltwater biotope and is a crucial stopover for migratory bird species.
- Another must-see spot is Zwin Dunes and Polders, an area of dunes, forests, pastures, and meadows. Visitors can experience a natural landscape that forms a transition between sea, beach, and polder, with paths suitable for walking, running, and cycling.
- Visitors also love Zwin Nature Reserve, a natural monument with a cycle path running parallel to the park. This landscape, shaped by the tides, is an important habitat for numerous bird species, often referred to as an "International Airport for Birds."
- Sluis is known for its intertidal areas, salt marshes, and coastal wetlands. These unique water bodies offer diverse ecosystems and opportunities for nature observation.
- The lakes around Sluis are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2500 upvotes and over 500 photos shared across 14 highlights.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
The Zwin Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
The Zwin is a slufter: a beach plain behind the dunes that is in open connection with the sea. Directly behind the gully mouth lies a sandy beach, further inward lie dunes and salt marshes. Behind the row of dunes lie two small polders, the Kievittepolder and the Oudelandsepolder.
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Zwin Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
Further information can be found on the nature park's website: zwin.be
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The Zwin
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Zwin Dunes and Polders
Highlight • Natural
Until the end of the 19th century, these dunes, forests, pastures and meadows were constantly changing under the influence of the sea. The area looked like today's Zwin; with mudflats, salt marshes and gullies closed off on the sea side by a belt of dunes. The Zwin dunes and polders only got their present form in 1872-1873, when the international dike was built to protect the area from the sea.
Since then, man has left clear traces here again and again: in the summer of 1929 the area was a golf course (although you had to putt and hit between sheep, because it was still used as pasture), shortly afterwards a horse racing track and riding arena were built. International show jumping competitions were held on it until the 1960s. The Kleyne Vlakte next door was even converted into a 40-acre airport in the early 1930s.
Even the world wars left their mark on this tactically important area. Large areas were concreted over.
In 2002 the Flemish government bought the area and from 2004 it was restored. Today you can experience it in "natural", if not really original splendor, with fauna and flora, which ultimately can only survive here thanks to careful human intervention.
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Drowned Land of Saeftinghe Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
When you follow the track do it at slow speed so you can have a look at the birds, plants etc. With a mountain bike: peace of cake. Almost in the middle of the track, you'll find the visitor's place. Worth rending visit to know more about this 'sunken land of Saeftinge'.
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Popular around Sluis
Five routes in Zeeland — the dunes, the woods and the sea
Sea, sand, and saddle – Coastal Route
By West, East and Zeeuws-Vlaanderen — GR Uilenspiegel
Coast and canals – travelling in Flanders and Zeeland Flanders
Along the border between the Netherlands and Belgium – the Grenslandpad
Along the Zeeland Coast — part 1: Dutch Coastal Path (formerly Deltapad)
Flanders by bike: cycling along the water
LF-routes
Cycling around Sluis
Hiking around Sluis
Other adventures around Sluis
Tips from the Community
Very beautiful vast nature reserve very close to beach and sea. Walking, running, cycling, horse riding...
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In the 13th and 14th centuries, this sea arm - ’t Zwyn - was an important waterway to Bruges. This waterway was created after the sea had penetrated the land around the beginning of the Christian era. The cities of Bruges, Damme and Sluis were located on the Zwin and became flourishing trading centres. But the channel became increasingly shallow and eventually unnavigable. That is why the Zwin was later largely poldered. Nature then took over here. Source: https://www.hetzeeuwselandschap.nl/natuurgebieden/het-zwin
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In the 13th and 14th centuries, this sea arm - ’t Zwyn - was an important waterway to Bruges. This waterway was created after the sea had penetrated the land around the beginning of the Christian era. The cities of Bruges, Damme and Sluis were located on the Zwin and became flourishing trading centres. But the channel became increasingly shallow and eventually unnavigable. That is why the Zwin was later largely poldered. Nature then took over here. Source: https://www.hetzeeuwselandschap.nl/natuurgebieden/het-zwin
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The Zwin is a slufter: a beach plain behind the dunes that is in open connection with the sea. Directly behind the gully mouth lies a sandy beach, further inward lie dunes and salt marshes. Behind the row of dunes lie two small polders, which are managed by the Zeeuwse Landschap: the Kievittepolder and the Oudelandsepolder. In the Zwinweide, once a side channel of the Zwin, is a very varied area where fresh and salt alternate at a short distance. Thanks to the alternation between wet and dry, salt and fresh, and clay and sand, the entire area has a great variety in vegetation and birds. Source and all information for your visit to this Zeeland side of the Zwin at https://www.hetzeeuwselandschap.nl/natuurgebieden/het-zwin
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The Zwin, whether it is Belgian or Dutch, does not matter, it is a beautiful nature reserve. The Zwin is a slufter: a beach plain behind the dunes that is in open connection with the sea. Directly behind the gully mouth lies a sandy beach, further inward lie dunes and salt marshes. Behind the row of dunes lie two small polders, the Kievittepolder and the Oudelandsepolder.
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The cycle path runs parallel to the Zwin Nature Park. The landscape, which is shaped by the tides, is an eye-catcher. It gets even more exciting when you pay attention to the numerous birds that pay a flying visit to the Zwin or even breed here. Further information can be found on the nature park's website: www.zwin.be
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Delicious segment where you can get a breath of fresh air and wave to ships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of 'lakes' can I expect to find around Sluis?
The Sluis region is unique for its coastal water bodies and intertidal ecosystems rather than traditional inland freshwater lakes. These areas are characterized by their dynamic connection to the North Sea, creating special environments like salt flats, marshes, and creeks.
Which nature reserves are prominent for their water features in Sluis?
Two prominent nature reserves are Het Zwin Nature Reserve and the Verdronken Zwarte Polder. Both offer unique intertidal landscapes with significant water features and rich biodiversity.
Is the Zwin Nature Reserve suitable for bird watching?
Yes, The Zwin Nature Reserve is famously known as an 'International Airport for Birds' due to its importance as a breeding ground and a crucial stopover for numerous migratory bird species. More than half of all bird species observed in Belgium can be found here.
Are there walking trails in the Verdronken Zwarte Polder?
Yes, the Verdronken Zwarte Polder features a marked 3-kilometer walking route that leads towards the beach. Wooden boardwalks allow visitors to traverse the creek area while keeping their feet dry, offering a unique experience of the dynamic landscape.
Can I find family-friendly activities around the lakes in Sluis?
Absolutely. Areas like Zwin Dunes and Polders are family-friendly, offering paths suitable for walking and cycling. The unique ecosystems and birdlife in reserves like Het Zwin also provide engaging educational opportunities for all ages.
Are dogs allowed in the nature areas around Sluis?
Yes, some areas are dog-friendly. For instance, Zwin Dunes and Polders welcomes dogs on its walking paths, allowing you to explore the beautiful natural transition between sea, beach, and polder with your pet.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available near these water bodies?
You can find various hiking routes. For example, the 'Birds and drowned polders' route is a moderate 18.2 km hike, and the 'Cadzand-Bad Beach – The Zwin Nature Reserve' loop is a moderate 10.8 km trail. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Sluis guide.
Are there cycling routes that pass by the unique water landscapes?
Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore the region. The 'Zwinroute - Zeeland' is a moderate 35.2 km cycle, and the 'Nieuwe Sluis Lighthouse' loop is an easy 29.7 km ride. Find more cycling tours in the Cycling around Sluis guide.
What is the best time to visit the coastal nature reserves in Sluis?
The coastal nature reserves are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn are particularly good for bird watching due to migratory patterns. Summer offers pleasant weather for walking and cycling, while the dynamic interplay of land and sea can be observed in all seasons.
What makes the Drowned Land of Saeftinghe Nature Reserve unique?
The Drowned Land of Saeftinghe Nature Reserve is a vast, brackish marsh area formed by historical floods. It offers an impressive landscape of creeks, mudflats, and salt marshes, providing a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, and a tangible experience of the ongoing interaction between land and sea.
Are there viewpoints to observe the unique landscapes?
Yes, in Het Zwin Nature Reserve, there is a 56-meter-long wooden panorama pier near Retranchement offering spectacular views of the intertidal area. Many trails also provide excellent vantage points over the salt marshes and dunes.
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