Stay at a hotel near Het Zwin

Looking for a hotel near Het Zwin? Dune Hotel Nieuwpoort sits between the dunes and the sea, about 50 km or a 50-minute drive from Het Zwin Nature Park in Knokke-Heist. A scenic drive along the coastline, ending at one of Belgium's most remarkable nature reserves. Prefer to stay closer to the hotel? Then simply enjoy the dunes, the peace and quiet, and a generous breakfast right from your room.

What is Het Zwin Nature Park?

Het Zwin Nature Park is a former sea arm of the North Sea, located between Knokke-Heist and the Dutch town of Cadzand-Bad. Twice a day, seawater flows into the plain. That's how mudflats form: bare, muddy patches that dry out at low tide and flood again at high tide. Slightly higher up lie the salt marshes, vegetated areas that only get wet during spring tide. Salt-tolerant plants such as sea samphire and sea lavender grow there. And birds, lots of them. Think seabirds, waders, and of course the well-known storks at the breeding station. It's no surprise the area is nicknamed the international airport for birds!

Visiting Het Zwin: everything at a glance

Planning on visiting Het Zwin? Start at the modern visitor centre in Knokke-Heist, on Graaf Leon Lippensdreef, with parking just a short walk from the entrance. There's more to experience here than you'd expect:

1. Interactive exhibition
   Discover everything about migratory birds, tides, and the unique landscape.
2. Stork tower
   Get a close-up view of the stork nests and the birds themselves.
3. Panorama tower
   Enjoy a sweeping view over the entire Zwin plain.
4. Restaurant and shop
   Perfect for a break or to pick up a nice souvenir.

Via Het Zwin's website you'll find the current opening hours, prices, and information on any combined tickets.

Walking Het Zwin

If you enjoy walking Het Zwin, you're in for a treat too. The plain itself is freely accessible, and beyond it lie even more routes through the surrounding nature:

1. Zwin walking trail (13.3 km, or a shorter 9.2 km loop)

Walk through the Zwin dunes and polders, over old seawall dykes, through the Koningsbos forest, and past Scottish Highland cattle. As a reward, you get a beautiful view over the Zwin plain. This route is free, since it runs outside the paid Nature Park.

2. Marked short paths

Prefer something shorter? The Groenpleinpad, Wiedauwpad, Dijkpad, and Keunepad let you explore the finest spots of the Zwin dunes and polders at your own pace.

3. Guided nature walk

Every Sunday morning, a nature guide leads visitors through the area, with extra insight into the special plants and animals.

Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes. Bring binoculars. And check the tides before you set off. Prefer a wheelchair-accessible route? Thanks to the dedicated path for the visually impaired and other accessible paths in the area, that's possible too.

Staying near Het Zwin

Come stay near Het Zwin at Dune Hotel. After a day full of birds, wind, and sea air, it's good to unwind. Dune Hotel Nieuwpoort is a brand-new hotel, surrounded by nature, with a beautiful view of the dunes and secure parking right outside. Our 88 rooms suit everyone: families with children, couples, and guests travelling with a dog. Rooms adapted for guests with reduced mobility are also available. And of course, a generous breakfast every morning.

Stay at Dune Hotel Nieuwpoort and discover Het Zwin, Raversijde, and the dune walks around the Doornpanne, all from the same home base. Check out our rooms and book your stay today.