The best MTB trails in Natuurreservaat De Westhoek

Wooden plank floor is being renovated, autumn 2025

From the 10th century onwards, a Romanesque church stood here. This church had fallen into very poor condition, and in 1802 it was renovated to serve as a parish church after the French Revolution. By 1862, only the nave remained, and it was decided to demolish the old church. In 1872, the foundation stone of a new church was laid on top of a dune. It was a Neo-Gothic church building. In 1940, this church was largely destroyed. Consequently, worshippers had to worship in a temporary church, and reconstruction began in 1949. Construction was interrupted by bankruptcy, but resumed in 1955. The church was consecrated in 1958. The church has a tower attached to the front, which also housed a clock in 1988. The stained-glass windows in the choir depict the life of Saint Vincent de Paul. Source: Wikipedia

This monument commemorates the residents of Ghyvelde who died in the First and Second World Wars. The monument stands on the square in front of the church. Atop the column is a sculpture: at the front, a soldier with a rifle and a flag in his hand. Behind him is the statue of a victorious woman holding a laurel wreath above the flag. Below that, a cross in relief: "1914 – 1918" "To the children of Ghyvelde who died for France" On the plinth are several memorial plaques: "To the fighters Tunisia – Morocco – Algeria * Indochina 1952-1962 1946-1954" Below that, a plaque listing the victims of the First World War, arranged by year. The names continue on the right side of the plinth. 1914: 15 names 1915: 14 names 1916: 14 names 1917: 7 names (right) 1918: 12 names At the bottom, a plaque with 27 names, indicating their regiment, various nationalities (including Canadians). "Ghyvelde was liberated on September 15, 1944" On the left side of the plinth : "Civilian Casualties" 1914: 4 names 1917: 1 name "Tribute to the Canadian Soldiers" 1944 "War 1939-1945 Military Casualties": 9 names Source: https://www.tracesofwar.nl/sights/5847/Oorlogsmonument-Ghyvelde.htm

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

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.

The kitesurfing school is beautifully located, but I don't know if you're even allowed to surf in that area of the city beach.