The Sint-Laureinsduinen are a little more than 45 hectares and are situated between the centre of Westende-Bad and the military domain of Kwartier Lombardsijde. Many will remember the dunes from the former campsites Cosmos and Crystal Palace, two sub-areas that were cleared and remediated in 2005. Since the refurbishment, nature has had free rein again and you can enjoy it to the full from the newly laid out footpaths.
With its long curved blades, referring to the typical marram grass, the Warande Tower is a striking and slender appearance. From the base (7 meters) you get a nice view of the Warande Dunes, a very valuable nature reserve with special plants and animals. Those who climb to the top (20 metres) can gaze, like a sailor in his crow's nest, at the horizon: Middelkerke and Westende, the vast polders, many Beaufort works of art and of course the sea...
The steel structure was built on top of the remains of the old water tower. It disappeared but not its original function. A large part of Middelkerke is still supplied with drinking water from here.
The construction of the Warande Tower is an initiative of the municipality of Middelkerke with the support of the Province of West-Flanders, Westtoer and Farys.
address: Louis Logierlaan 51, 8430 Middelkerke
VVW Westende disposes of 2 club houses, club 'De Kwinte' on the Sint-Laureinsstrand in Westende and club 'Koko Loco' on the spaarbekken in Nieuwpoort. This allows VVW Westende to offer a wide range of possible sports and camps, with a unique location and specific equipment for each sport. With the arrival of the completely new 'De Kwinte' in Westende, the club has grown into much more than just a surf club, it has become a real watersports centre! All comfort and a super view over the sports beach, makes this the new base at the coast for both sport, fun & party.
The museum 'Kusthistories' is highly recommended. You step into the history of coastal tourism on the Belgian coast. Today, holidays on the coast are commonplace. It was different once. Old swimwear, souvenirs, an old tram, 'bum carts', unique films, beautiful scenery, and much more.
This part of the old defence line, which the Germans built to protect the mainland against invasion, has been well preserved in the dunes of Raversijde. Visit these fortifications from the first and second world wars.
At Villa Les Zéphyrs you will discover how a wealthy family spent its holidays by the sea around 1930. The villa dates from 1922. The building was refurbished according to the detailed description of the first occupants. By means of all kinds of utensils, photographs, depicted scenes and modern multimedia applications, the time of yesteryear is brought back to life in the unique historical setting.
Between the dunes and the polders lies the technical course (PAR 31) where some holes require a strategic approach or a good shot to play a PAR. The driving range and beautiful pitching and putting green complete the offer.
With its open, friendly atmosphere, Westgolf is also the ideal place for beginners. Every second Sunday of the month the club organises a free introductory meeting for those who want to start playing golf.
And if you are hungry or thirsty after golfing, you can visit "Freddie's Brasserie" in the clubhouse for an honest day's meal or resto menu. Westgolf, the largest small golf club in Flanders, with 9 holes of fun!
Near Nieuwpoort, the IJzer flows directly into the sea. Where salt and fresh water meet, a special biotope developed with mud flats, salt marshes, dunes, beach and polders. Thanks to an extensive network of cycling and hiking trails, you can start from Westende and enjoy the natural beauty of the IJzer estuary. Handy information panels tell you all about this wonderful nature reserve along the way. On certain days of the week you can take the ferry directly to Nieuwpoort Bad.
Fancy a game of miniature golf? Then this course in Westende will certainly charm you, with its 18 holes and extremely well-groomed look! A snack and a drink on the sun terrace are also part of the deal of course! And if the kids still have energy after a great day at the seaside, they can let off steam at the playground. Individual prices are at €5/person for adults, and €3 for children under 12. There are also discounts for groups.
The 4 km route takes you along the many witnesses of Westende's fashionable past. Via the Zeedijk you will discover the majestic Grand Hôtel Belle-Vue. Besides historic sights, the walking route also passes several modern works of art including 'The Caterpillar #5bis' by Wim Delvoye. Via quiet footpaths through the Warande Gardens you return to the center of Westende.
Distance: 4,00km
Relief: Flat
Shape: Loop-shaped One way
Type of route: Town or heritage walk
Accessibility:
Dogs
Wheelchair
View route: https://www.westtoer.be/nl/doen/erfgoedwandelroute-westende
West Bay Hotel & Apartments is member of the C-Hotels Group