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De Duinbossen van De Haan: A Coastal Forest Retreat

Discover De Haan's Duinbossen: a coastal haven of forests, dunes, and trails, perfect for nature lovers and family adventures along the Belgian coast.

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Escape to De Duinbossen van De Haan, a 152-hectare coastal forest offering a blend of open dune landscapes and wooded areas. Perfect for hiking, nature walks, and family outings, this green oasis provides a tranquil retreat from the bustling seaside.

A brief summary to De Duinbossen van De Haan - deelgemeente Klemskerke

  • De Haan, BE

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking or biking, as the trails vary in terrain.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated open spaces surrounded by nature.
  • Check local maps for guided trails and points of interest to enhance your exploration.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the De Haan Centrum, walk towards the coast on Koningin Astridlaan. Continue to the beach promenade, then turn left and walk until you see signs for Duinbossen De Haan - deelgemeente Klemskerke. The entrance is a short walk from the promenade. There is no cost for accessing the forest.

  • Public Transport

    From the De Haan Centrum, take bus number 5 towards Oostende. Get off at the 'Klemskerke, Dorp' stop. From there, walk towards the wooded area to find the Duinbossen. A single bus fare is approximately €2.50.

  • Parking

    Parking is available near the Duinbossen, though it is usually paid. Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot. Parking fees vary, so be prepared with change or a suitable payment method. Free parking may be available in certain areas, but a parking disc might be required.

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Discover more about De Duinbossen van De Haan - deelgemeente Klemskerke

De Duinbossen van De Haan, a green jewel on the Belgian coast, spans 152 hectares and is composed of three distinct sections: the Duinbossen of Klemskerke, Vlissegem, and Wenduine. These sections connect with the De Zandpanne and De Kijkuit nature reserves, creating a large, diverse dune area featuring forests, dune scrub, and grasslands. The town center of De Haan splits this area in two. Formed after the 11th century, the dunes were created by significant sand drifts. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, elm trees were planted to prevent the shifting sands from burying the rich agricultural lands. The first real forest plantings occurred in 1838, mainly with Scots pine and deciduous wood. After failed attempts, in 1922, the management was handed over to the then-named Administration of Waters and Forests, which introduced various species like black pine, maple, poplar and willow. Today, visitors can explore marked trails, enjoy three play zones, and appreciate the unique flora and fauna adapted to the coastal environment. Keep an eye out for rare species such as the dune violet and coastal grasshopper, as well as the protected red wood ant. The Duinbossen offer a refreshing escape with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and peaceful picnics.

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