Westhoek walking route

10.5 km Through the dunes Through woodland Along the beach Moderate Lots of loose sand

Step into the landscape of Flanders’ oldest and largest dune reserve. The Westhoek walking route brings you nature in its purest form: vast sandy plains, mysterious dune valleys and winding woodland paths. Feel the wind in your hair, spot wild animals and enjoy panoramic views. Flirt with the border and the French Opal Coast. Step into adventure.

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Follow the hexagonal signs.

Is this route too long? Choose the shortened 7.2 km loop.

Starting location

This walk starts at the Duinpanne visitor centre.

Olmendreef 2
8660 De Panne
BE

On your route

The Westhoek walking route leads from the Duinpanne visitor centre to Calmeynbos, a 55-hectare dune woodland planted in the early 20th century. Via the residential Westhoek development, you walk to the beach. Here you climb the Westerpunt, an architectural masterpiece forming the link between beach and dunes. De Westhoek nature reserve borders France. In this protected landscape, you cross different types of dunes. Bare dune ridges alternate with impenetrable scrub, grassland and woodland. The return route leads through Aquaduin’s water extraction area and Calmeynbos.

Duinpanne visitor centre: At the Provincial Duinpanne visitor centre, you discover the beauty of the region and its natural surroundings. Inside and out, let yourself be surprised by the unique life of the dunes, coast and sea.
Groene-Biezen viewing platform: From the viewing platform, you can look out over the Flemish nature reserve De Westhoek (345 ha). This is the only dune area on the Flemish coast where almost all dune vegetation types are represented in one uninterrupted dune landscape.
Westerpunt: The Westerpunt is a geometric, gentle staircase that leads you up from the promenade until you tower above the beach, before bringing you back down towards the lower beach or the sea wall.