Discover De Haan, the Belle Époque family seaside resort

De Haan, a picturesque seaside resort on the West Flemish coast, is known for its charming Belle Époque architecture and beautiful beaches. This cozy coastal town offers a perfect blend of tranquility, nature, and family fun. Discover why De Haan is a fantastic destination for your next seaside holiday!

Why visit De Haan?

De Haan has something to offer everyone. Whether you enjoy relaxing on the beach, indulging in culinary delights, cycling, or soaking up culture, you will find it all here. Here are a few reasons why you should visit De Haan:

• Beautiful beaches: De Haan has wide sandy beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach walks. The quiet and family-friendly beach makes it an ideal destination for families with children.
• Charming architecture: De Haan is renowned for its stunning Belle Époque villas and houses. A walk through the Concessie district is like stepping back in time.
• Culinary delights: De Haan offers a wide range of dining options, from cozy brasseries to fine dining restaurants. Taste the local specialties and enjoy the fresh seafood.
• Natural beauty: De Haan is surrounded by beautiful natural areas such as the Dune Forests and the nature reserve De Zandpanne. Perfect for walkers and nature lovers.
• Family-friendly activities: Besides the beach, there are plenty of activities for the whole family, such as mini golf, playgrounds, and bike rentals.

What to do in De Haan?

There are so many fun activities in De Haan that you will never be bored. Here are a few suggestions:

• Beach fun: The beaches of De Haan are perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. There are also beach bars where you can enjoy a refreshing drink.
• Cycling and walking: Discover the surroundings by bike or on foot. There are many beautiful routes that take you along the coast and through nature areas. The 40 km long Coastal Route is highly recommended for cyclists.
• The Concessie: Explore the Concessie district with its stunning Belle Époque villas. This historic part of De Haan offers a unique architectural experience.
• The Dune Forests: Take a walk or bike ride through the Dune Forests, a nature area that stretches along the coast. It is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy nature.
• Mini golf and playgrounds: There are several mini golf courses and playgrounds scattered throughout De Haan. Perfect for a fun afternoon with the family.
• Sea Life Blankenberge: A short drive from De Haan is Sea Life Blankenberge, a great day trip for families where you can discover the underwater world.
• Windsurfing and kayaking: For the sports enthusiasts, there are opportunities for windsurfing and kayaking along the coast. Various rental centers offer lessons and equipment.

Where to stay?

De Haan offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy bed & breakfasts and holiday homes. Here are a few recommendations:

• Hotels: For a luxurious stay, you can choose one of the beautiful hotels along the coast. Hotel Belle Vue and Hotel Astel are popular choices with excellent amenities.
• Bed & Breakfasts: For a homely atmosphere and personal service, you can choose a bed & breakfast. B&B Yaca and B&B Zonnehuis offer a warm welcome and a delicious breakfast.
• Holiday homes: Rent a holiday home for a comfortable and private stay. There are many beautiful holiday homes available, from modern villas to cozy cottages.
• Holiday parks: De Haan also has several holiday parks where you can enjoy extensive facilities such as a swimming pool, playground, and sports fields. De Haan aan Zee is a popular holiday park for families.

Eating and drinking in De Haan

In terms of cuisine, De Haan has a lot to offer. Here are some culinary tips:

• Local specialties: Taste the delicious fish dishes and seafood, such as the famous shrimp croquettes and fresh mussels. Don't forget the Belgian waffles and chocolate.
• Restaurants: From chic restaurants to cozy eateries, De Haan has something for every taste. Restaurant Casanova and Bistro Villa Julia are two popular dining spots.
• Markets: Visit the weekly Wednesday market for fresh produce and local delicacies. The market on the Driftplein is a must for lovers of artisanal products.
• Beach bars: Along the coast, you will find cozy beach bars where you can enjoy a snack and a drink with a view of the sea. Beachclub De Windhaan is a popular beach bar with a relaxed atmosphere.

Beaches of De Haan

The beaches of De Haan are one of the biggest attractions of this charming seaside resort. With expansive sandy beaches and an unspoiled coastline, De Haan offers the perfect spot for a day of sun, sea, and sand. Here are some highlights of the beaches in De Haan:

• Wide and clean: The beaches of De Haan are known for their width and cleanliness. You will always find a spot to lay down your towel and enjoy the sun.
• Family-friendly: The calm and safe beaches make De Haan ideal for families with children. There are several playgrounds and activities for the little ones, such as building sandcastles and flying kites.
• Beach facilities: Along the coastline, you will find plenty of beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a snack and a drink. There are also showers and toilets available to make your stay comfortable.
• Dog beach: There is also a special section of the beach where dogs are welcome. Here your four-legged friends can run and play in the sand and sea.
• Sunset: Don't forget to admire the beautiful sunsets. The beach of De Haan offers a breathtaking view of the setting sun, providing a perfect end to your day.

Events in De Haan

De Haan is not only a place to relax but also a vibrant seaside resort with numerous events throughout the year. Whether you enjoy music, art, culture, or sports, there is always something to do. Here are some of the highlights of the events in De Haan:

• Belle Époque Festival: This annual Trammelant event celebrates the rich history of De Haan with parades, music, and activities that take you back to the early 20th century. It is a colorful spectacle you don't want to miss.
• Local markets: The weekly Wednesday market in De Haan is perfect for discovering local products and artisanal goods. Taste fresh vegetables, fruits, cheeses, and other delicacies as you stroll through the cozy stalls.
• Sports events: De Haan also hosts various sports events such as beach races, running competitions, and bike rides. Join in or cheer on the participants for a day full of action and fun.

Whether you relax on the sun-drenched beaches or participate in one of the many events, De Haan always offers an unforgettable experience. Come and discover what this beautiful seaside resort on the West Flemish coast has to offer!

Practical information

Here are a few tips to make your stay in De Haan as pleasant as possible:

• Accessibility: De Haan is easily accessible by car, train, and bus. The coastal tram connects De Haan with other coastal towns such as Ostend and Blankenberge.
• Transport in the town: Public transport in De Haan is well organized. There are buses and trams that easily take you to all major attractions. It is also recommended to rent a bike to explore the surroundings.
• Best time to visit: De Haan is a great destination all year round, but the summer months are ideal for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. In spring and autumn, you can enjoy quieter streets and beautiful nature walks.
• Parking: There are various parking options in De Haan, both public parking spaces and parking garages. It is advisable to check in advance where you can park, especially during the high season.

See you soon in De Haan!

Whether you come for a relaxing holiday or an adventurous outing, De Haan will certainly not disappoint you. Come and discover the charm of this beautiful seaside resort on the West Flemish coast! Enjoy the beaches, the nature, the culture, and all the activities that De Haan has to offer.