Along the Belgian coast, on the beaches of Knokke-Heist

No need to go to the ends of the earth, to the islands off exotic countries, to experience the joys of the beach. In the province of Western Flanders, the coasts of the Kingdom of Belgium harbour a handful of sandy stretches which are among the most elegant in the whole of the North Sea. Such is Knokke-Heist, a little seaside resort near The Netherlands.

Knokke-Heist, the chic beaches of the Belgian coast

Spread along 12 kilometres, the fine sand can be split into 5 different parts : for families, residential, sporting, elegant and private. Formerly a fishing village, this regional Saint-Tropez is a summer residence where residents are exempt from paying local taxes. And, locally, the most desirable social spot is Knokke-le-Zoute, known for its sea air, its white villas and its casino.

Let yourself be lulled by the waves while hanging on to the groynes, the sea air is gentle in the summer. © DR

On the North Sea, the coastline seems endless, and invites you for restorative walks. © DR

The beach rendez-vous of the Belgian elite

The Brussels and Antwerp elite meets up on the deckchairs set out by the lively restaurants. According to taste, you go to the « Zoute Strand », the classic beach, or « The Yello Sail », supposed to be snobby, unless you prefer the very fashionable « Riverwoods », while the bravest will do their morning jog up to the bird reserve of Zwin. The Belgian coast has so much to offer...

Between the dunes, the sailing boats wait for amateurs to climb aboard and take them out to sea. © DR