Attractions and Places To See around Zuydcoote - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Zuydcoote include a blend of natural coastal features and historical sites in the Hauts-de-France region. This coastal village offers extensive sandy beaches and significant dune nature reserves. The area is characterized by its natural landscapes and historical remnants from past conflicts, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration. Zuydcoote also serves as a starting point for various hiking and cycling routes, connecting to both French and Belgian territories.
Best attractions and places to see around…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Maerebrug (Maere Bridge) over the Nieuwpoort–Dunkirk Canal
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Belgium–France Border at Grenspad and 1819 Border Marker
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Krakeelduinen Nature Reserve
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Pier Kloeffe Statue, De Panne
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Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve
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Unfortunately, the bike path here is no longer paved. Still, the scenery is beautiful.
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Petrus Decreton may not sound familiar, but you'll probably recognize his nickname, Pier Kloeffe. The Icelandic explorer who regularly fished on the beach after the First World War was immortalized in a bronze statue by Louis Van Den Eynde. Source: https://www.strandverblijf.be/nl/wandelingen/beeldenroute-de-panne
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First of all, this boundary marker on the beach is completely new, as an earlier one was irreparably damaged in 2021. The date and initials refer to the brief period from 1814 to 1830 when France bordered the Netherlands. The former boundary marker was first erected in 1819. Now, this boundary marker 2.0 marks the border between Belgium and France. The point also indicates the westernmost point of Belgium combined with the northernmost point of mainland France.
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The Maerebrug in De Panne is an elegant steel bridge spanning the Nieuwpoort–Dunkirk Canal and playing a vital role in the Westhoek recreational network. Designed with gentle slopes on both sides, it is easily accessible for cyclists, walkers, and horse riders. With a width of four meters and a span of 33 meters, the bridge offers safe and comfortable passage over the water and forms a link between Belgian and French nature reserves.
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Currently no flags to be seen
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Not passable by bike.
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Nature reserve. You're pretty much alone here.
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The Maerebrug was installed in 2013 as part of the functional and recreational cross-border project Dunkirk-De Panne and is a fixed, steel bridge for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders. There are gentle access ramps on both sides of the bridge so that road users can use the bridge easily. The bridge is 4 meters wide and spans a length of 33 meters. The construction of the bridge was integrated into the rural environment as much as possible. The bridge was given the name 'Maerebrug' as a reference to the connection that this bridge makes to the two parts of the Maerestraat, once one whole, but cut in two by the construction of the Nieuwpoort-Duinkerke canal. 'Maere' refers to 'mer', 'mar' (sea) and 'Moere' (so between the sea and the marshes).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Zuydcoote?
Zuydcoote is renowned for its natural coastal beauty. You can explore the expansive sandy Zuydcoote Beach, which is free from commercial establishments. The area is also home to significant dune systems, including the Krakeelduinen Nature Reserve, the Dune Marchand Nature Reserve, and the Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve, all offering diverse landscapes for exploration.
Are there specific nature reserves worth visiting near Zuydcoote?
Yes, several nature reserves are easily accessible. The Krakeelduinen Nature Reserve is a restored dune area where you might spot Scottish Blackface sheep. The Dune Marchand Nature Reserve spans over 100 hectares and is a botanical highlight, while the Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve features both dry dunes and moist dune pans, with remnants of military history.
What historical sites are there to visit in and around Zuydcoote?
Zuydcoote has a rich military history. You can visit the Zuydcoote Military Cemetery, a poignant reminder of World War I. The remains of the English steamship, the Wreck of the Crested Eagle, are visible on Zuydcoote Beach at low tide, linking to Operation Dynamo. Nearby, the Fort des Dunes in Leffrinckoucke is a former military camp, and the Sanatorium of Zuydcoote played a crucial role as a military hospital during both World Wars.
Can I visit the border between Belgium and France?
Absolutely. Zuydcoote is located only 3 km from the Belgian border. You can visit the Belgium–France Border at Grenspad and 1819 Border Marker, which includes a border stone and flags, offering a unique historical point of interest within the dune reserve.
Are there hiking trails suitable for different skill levels?
Yes, Zuydcoote offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find trails ranging from easy to moderate, such as the 6 km 'Blockhaus 602 in the Dunes – Zuydcoote Beach loop' or the 11 km 'Strand – Marchand Dunes loop'. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Zuydcoote.
What cycling opportunities are available in the area?
The region is excellent for cycling, with a network of trails. You can enjoy routes like the 27 km 'North Sea Cycle Route and Dunkirk Loop' or the 44 km 'Along the Dewulf Dune – Bois des Forts Pond loop'. The 'points-noeuds vélo' network further connects Zuydcoote with surrounding towns. Discover more cycling adventures on the cycling guide for Zuydcoote.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Zuydcoote?
Many of the natural areas are family-friendly, offering space for children to play and explore. The Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve and Belgium–France Border at Grenspad are noted as family-friendly. Beachcombing on Zuydcoote Beach is also a popular activity for all ages.
What unique local activities or experiences can I find?
Beyond hiking and cycling, you can enjoy beachcombing and shellfish gathering on Zuydcoote Beach during low tide. For film enthusiasts, a marked path allows you to retrace the filming locations of the 1964 movie 'Week-end à Zuydcoote'.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Zuydcoote?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The extensive sandy beaches, serene dune nature reserves like Krakeelduinen Nature Reserve, and the historical remnants from past conflicts are highly valued. The community has given over 450 upvotes and shared 56 photos, highlighting the area's appeal for outdoor exploration and its unique cross-border experiences.
Is there a bridge connecting the region for cyclists and pedestrians?
Yes, the Maerebrug (Maere Bridge) over the Nieuwpoort–Dunkirk Canal is a steel fixed bridge built in 2013 specifically for cyclists, pedestrians, and riders. It connects two parts of Maerestraat, which was historically divided by the canal, and features soft access ramps for smooth use.
Can I find gravel biking routes near Zuydcoote?
Yes, the area offers several gravel biking routes. You can explore options like the 43 km 'De Doornpanne – Nieuwpoort–Dunkirk Canal loop' or the 60 km 'Along the Dewulf Dune – Bois des Forts Pond loop'. More gravel biking routes are available in the gravel biking guide for Zuydcoote.
Are there any notable statues or monuments to see?
In nearby De Panne, you can find the Pier Kloeffe Statue. This monument depicts a fisherman, Pier Kloeffe (Petrus Decreton), staring at the horizon, serving as a figurehead for the fishing industry in De Panne.
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