Sport et Tourisme.fr gives an overview of the nine iconic cycle routes in Flanders. After the Route of the Cities of Art allowing you to travel through centuries of Flemish history, after the Green Belt of Brussels allowing you to discover the outskirts of the Belgian capital, here is the Coastal Route which runs along the Flemish coast.
Flanders is a real land of cycle tourism. Not less than nine iconic cycle routes mesh the territory. Each of them connects the most beautiful landscapes of Flanders via very pleasant cycle paths which revolve around a central theme.
Perfect combination of sea, nature and culture
Over 85 kilometers, between the Coastal Route (Kustroute) presents itself as “the perfect combination” of nature, maritime history and culture. From Knokke-Heist, considered the most chic resort on the North Sea, to Adinkerke not far from the French border, via Ostend, renowned for its long beach and its promenade, it is a nice walk on flat ground looming for the cyclist.
Walks in the dunes and the woods, vast flat landscapes of the polders, safe roads with sea views, the Coastal Route offers the opportunity to discover the rich history of coastal life. In its middle Ostend proves to be a point of attraction of the very first order. The popular resort of the Belgian royal family is still worth some of its Belle Epoque villas. In addition to its large beach, don’t miss a visit to the James Ensor house, the place where the Anglo-Belgian painter lived.
Ostend but not only!
Along the route, many other sites will delight the eye. To the east of Ostend, towards the Netherlands, the Zwin nature park nicknamed “the international airport of migratory birds” will delight photographers and ornithologists. Do not hesitate either to treat yourself to a drink at Knokke-Heist, a town located just next door. A little further the seaside resort of Blankenberge seduced by its typical houses with loggias and Art Nouveau tiles. The Center Belle Epoque offers guided tours. A curiosity, a jetty, the Pier, built in the 1930s leads to a circular bar-restaurant which seems to defy the North Sea.
At the end of the route, towards the French border (Dunkirk is not very far), Nieuport announces itself as the only natural port in Belgium. With the possibility of practicing many water sports. Whether you are by the sea or on the Grand Place, the city has a certain charm that makes it worth spending time there. Finally, as in many other towns and resorts on this Coastal Route, where you can pedal and breathe deeply while enjoying the treasures scattered here and there.
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