Walking in and around Ostend

Oostende is the queen of the Belgian coast, and has more to offer walkers than the busy promenade might suggest. The city combines a wide beach, a rich maritime history and interesting walking opportunities along the coast and in the hinterland, from the Provincial Domain of Raversyde to the IJzermonding.

Walking routes

Walking routes around Oostende range from a historic city walk along the royal colonnades to a tour through the Provincial Domain of Raversyde or along the IJzermonding. Below are the finest routes.

8 Nature reserves

Around Oostende lie 8 exceptional walking areas. From the historic dune reserve of Raversyde to the unique mudflat and salt marsh landscape of the IJzermonding.

Oosteroever

On the opposite side of the busy and touristy centre of Oostende, across the harbour entrance, lies a surprisingly quiet and remarkable nature area: Oosteroever. What can you expect in the nature area Oosteroever? This place is often seen as a hidden treasure: a stretch of rugged coastal nature where dunes, special plants and birds still have plenty of space, while the ...

Oosteroever, Oostende
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Nature Park Raversyde

The enchanting Raversyde nature park in Ostend, a unique combination of nature, history, and art. This park offers a special experience for visitors of all ages. What can you expect at Raversyde Nature Park? -

Nieuwpoortsesteenweg 642, Oostende
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Japanese Garden Shin Kai Tei

This beautiful garden is a perfect place for tranquility and reflection, inspired by traditional Japanese garden culture. What to Expect at the Japanese Garden Shin Kai Tei in Ostend? - Traditional Japanese Landscape: This garden of approximately 2500 m² offers an authentic Japanese experience with its carefully designed landscapes, complete with water features, ...

Koningin Astridlaan, OostendeMore information

Leopoldpark

A green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for both relaxation and recreation. This picturesque park, named after King Leopold II, offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle. What to Expect at Leopold Park in Ostend? - Natural Beauty: Enjoy the beautiful ponds, colorful flower beds, and lush trees that make the park a true green lung in the ...

Leon Spilliaertstraat 41, OostendeMore information

Uitkerkse Polder

Located between Blankenberge, Wenduine, Nieuwmunster, and Zuienkerke, the nature reserve Uitkerkse Polder offers a unique meadow landscape with numerous ditches and cattle drinking pools. This centuries-old area is the most important meadow bird area in Flanders and a true attraction for nature lovers and birdwatchers. What to Expect at Uitkerkse Polder? - Walking ...

Kuiperscheeweg 20, UitkerkeMore information

Warande Dunes

The Warande Dunes form a narrow nature area along the coast between Middelkerke and Westende. What can you expect in the Warande Dunes? Thanks to the many walking paths, the area is a favourite spot for walkers, nature lovers and photographers. - Narrow but varied dune belt: The Warande Dunes are about 2 kilometres long and up to roughly 185 metres wide. This narrow dune ...

Warandeduinen, Middelkerke
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De Fonteintjes

Between Blankenberge and Zeebrugge, a narrow dune belt hosts a unique nature reserve: De Fonteintjes. This area offers an enchanting landscape of dune ponds, dune scrub, and wet dune grasslands, ideal for nature lovers and walkers. What to Expect at De Fonteintjes? - Walking Routes: Discover De Fonteintjes via the Coastal Walking Route. Walk along the historic ...

Kustlaan, BlankenbergeMore information

De IJzermonding

In Nieuwpoort, just 4 km from the town centre, lies the nature reserve De IJzermonding, a unique area where fresh and saltwater meet. This beautiful nature reserve, with its rich variety of fauna and flora, offers a special experience for nature lovers. What Can You Expect at De IJzermonding? - Unique Biotope: Discover the unique environment where the IJzer, the ...

Oude Zeedijk, NieuwpoortMore information

Viewpints

Oostende has 2 viewpoints with a fine outlook over the North Sea and the city. Below are the finest locations, from the royal colonnades to the beach pavilion.

Water Tower Bredene

Dive into the fascinating history and enjoy the panoramic view from the Water Tower, a remarkable architectural monument in Bredene. This historic water tower, not only an important part of the local heritage, offers visitors a unique opportunity to view Bredene and the surrounding area from a different perspective. What can you expect? - Historical Significance: ...

Dorpstraat 1-33, Bredene
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Warande Tower

The Warande Tower is a striking observation tower in the Warande Dunes, between Westende and Middelkerke. What can you expect at the Warande Tower? A modern landmark and a popular spot for walkers and cyclists who want to enjoy magnificent views over the Belgian coast. - Spectacular views over coast and polders: Climb the 71 steps of the tower and reach the highest ...

Louis Logierlaan 51, MiddelkerkeMore information

» View our complete 'see & do' list with many more museums, attractions, monuments and other places of interest.