Uitkerkse Polder hiking trail

A stone's throw from the popular seaside town of Blankenberge lies an ancient meadow landscape, the Uitkerkse Polder. The coastal polder area is an oasis of peace along the busy coastline. Our discovery starts at the Groenwaecke Visitor Center in Blankenberge. There are a limited number of parking spaces for early birds. To get to know what the Uitkerkse Polders has to offer us, we take an introductory tour (blue walk) of 1 km on top of the mound. The exceptional elevation in the landscape offers a panoramic view of the many water features in the vast open landscape below. The Uitkerkse Polder, with its 1,400 hectares, is one of the last open spaces on the Flemish Coast. It is an ideal habitat for many bird species all year round. An excellent paradise for birds and bird watchers. Practical: the walk mainly takes place on paved roads with little traffic. However, waterproof footwear is recommended because a short stretch (between the Hooistraat and the Blankenbergse Vaart = 1 km) is unpaved and can be quite muddy depending on the weather conditions. Together, following in the footsteps of bird watchers, we also made a good visit. During our experience we especially enjoyed the many aerial antics that took place in the firmament. Bird watchers played as local guides at various locations. You will experience the highlight at the Grutto bird watching hut. Unsuspectingly, meadow birds and winter visitors forage in the ground in front of you. It was a walking experience with birds and birdwatchers flying in and out.