the fountains, Blankenberge Travel Guide

4.2 (100)

Discover Zeebrugge's hidden gem: a tranquil dune landscape with diverse flora, abundant birdlife, and peaceful walking trails.

Escape to the tranquil Fonteintjes Nature Reserve, a unique dune landscape between Blankenberge and Zeebrugge. Discover diverse flora, including orchids, and observe almost 120 bird species in this charming protected area.

A brief summary to the fountains

Kustlaan 268, Bruges, Zeebrugge, 8380, BE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring the fountains.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the paths can be uneven in some areas.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the reserve is home to almost 120 bird species.
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a better chance to spot wildlife.
Respect the natural habitat by staying on marked paths and avoiding disturbing the flora and fauna.

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Explore the fountains on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near the fountains, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Zeebrugge Strand train station, walk east along the Kustlaan for approximately 500 meters. The entrance to De Fonteintjes will be on your right. The train from Bruges to Zeebrugge-Strand runs regularly, especially on weekends and during the holiday months of July and August. A single train ticket from Bruges to Zeebrugge costs approximately €4-€6. Alternatively, the Coastal Tram stops at 'Zeebrugge-Strandwijk', right next to the reserve. A single tram ticket costs €3.
Walking

If you are near the Zeebrugge beach area, follow the Kustlaan (coastal road) either from Blankenberge or Zeebrugge. The nature reserve is located along the Kustlaan, approximately halfway between the two towns. Look for signs indicating the entrance to De Fonteintjes. There are several access points from the beach and surrounding areas.
Car

From the N31/A11 intersection, take exit 20 towards 'Zeebrugge/Lissewege'. Follow Baron de Maerelaan to Kustlaan (N34). Parking D - Kustlaan, located adjacent to the beach area and the 'Zeebrugge-Strandwijk' tram stop, offers free parking. From there, walk along the Kustlaan, and you'll pass the entrance to De Fonteintjes. Note that parking can be limited during peak season.

Discover more about the fountains

De Fonteintjes, meaning 'The Fountains,' is a captivating nature reserve nestled between the coastal towns of Blankenberge and Zeebrugge. This narrow strip of dunes offers a surprising variety of fauna and flora, making it a haven for nature lovers and walkers.The reserve's beautiful dune landscape features rich vegetation, including rare plants and splendid orchids. It's also a favorite breeding ground for nearly 120 bird species. Informative signs in multiple languages guide visitors through this charming area, highlighting the four 'fonteintjes,' or ponds, that give the reserve its name. These dune ponds, along with dune scrub and wet dune grasslands, create an enchanting and diverse ecosystem.Visitors can explore De Fonteintjes via the Coastal Walking Route, enjoying the tranquility of the dunes and the chance to spot local wildlife. The reserve's natural beauty provides a peaceful escape and a refreshing connection with nature.