Westhoek dunes

The De Westhoek nature reserve on the western edge of De Panne, right on the French border, is at around 340 ha the largest dune landscape on the Belgian coast. Together with the neighbouring areas, including the French Le Perroquet dunes, it forms the largest dune massif on the Flemish coast. The large central dune, known as the “Sahara” for its expanse of sand, has drifted inland under the wind and is now partly becoming vegetated. More than 400 species of higher plants grow in the reserve. Wildflowers bloom in spring, and shallow pools of water stand in the hollows in winter.

Konik horses and Scottish Highland cattle manage the land by grazing; natterjack toads and crested newts spawn in the dune pools in spring. Several marked paths cross the reserve, and entry is free. Keep to the signposted paths: walking on the dunes promotes erosion, disturbs nesting birds and damages rare plants such as orchids. The De Nachtegaal visitor centre in De Panne offers guided tours and information. The reserve's map shows bus and tram stops and car parks.