De Doornpanne - Nature

The De Doornpanne Visitor Centre in Koksijde is the perfect place to discover the unique combination of nature and water management along the Belgian coast. Located in the breathtaking De Doornpanne nature reserve, the visitor centre offers an ideal mix of education, adventure, and relaxation for all ages.

What can you experience at the De Doornpanne Visitor Centre?

• Educational Exhibitions: Learn all about water extraction in the dunes, local flora and fauna, and the collaboration between nature and technology in the permanent exhibition.
• Adventure Playground: The natural playground at the visitor centre is a true attraction for children of all ages. This play area, perfectly integrated into the dune landscape, combines fun with education:
  - Water Fun: Play with water wheels, small streams, and pumps to create your own water flows. A playful way to learn how water moves through nature.
  - Climbing and Exploring: Climb on tree trunks, balance on ropes, and explore sand hills that stimulate children’s creativity and motor skills.
  - Educational Elements: Close to the playground are a flower meadow and an insect hotel where children can learn about biodiversity.
  - For All Ages: Quiet play areas for younger children and more challenging zones for older adventurers.
• Guided Excursions: Discover the beauty of the nature reserve and the water extraction process with experienced guides. Perfect for families, schools, and groups.
• Doornpanne Walking Route: Follow the 9.8 km marked walking route through the nature reserve and enjoy stunning views, including a visit to the Hoge Blekker, the highest dune in Flanders.

Why visit the De Doornpanne Visitor Centre?

• Unique Nature Experience: Discover one of the most beautiful dune areas along the Flemish coast and enjoy the harmony between nature and water management.
• Perfect Facilities: The visitor centre features a recently renewed viewpoint, a picnic area, a flower meadow, an insect hotel, and accessible toilets for all visitors.
• Fun for Families: Combine education and relaxation with activities such as the gnome trail, junior ranger program, or an interactive photo walk.
• Peace and Relaxation: While children play in the natural playground, parents can enjoy the tranquillity at one of the picnic spots overlooking the dunes.

A Visit That Inspires

The natural playground of De Doornpanne is more than just a place to play – it’s an experience that challenges children to learn, discover, and enjoy. Combine this with a walk or a visit to the educational exhibitions, and you have the perfect outing on the Belgian coast. Be enchanted by the unique harmony of nature, adventure, and relaxation at the De Doornpanne Visitor Centre in Koksijde!

Furthermore De Doornpanne is near the following sights: Manege Ter Duinen (±850 m), Hoge Blekker (±1,4 km), National Fisheries Museum (±1,6 km), Beach Village (±2,3 km) & Abbey Museum Ten Duinen (±2,6 km).

For information

Doornpannestraat 2, Koksijde
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