Cadzand-Bad, Sluis, Retranchement

Het Zwin, on the border of Belgium and the Netherlands, is a special nature reserve with a rich history and ecology. This area from Knokke-Heist to Cadzand offers a mix of dunes, lakes and beaches. Het Zwin is a wonderful place for nature lovers and the habitat of various plants and animals.

Het Zwin has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. The area was created around the 12th century by a series of storm tides that entered the land and formed a natural channel. Thanks to this connection, Bruges grew into an important trading city. Ships from all over the world found their way to Bruges via Het Zwin, so the area played a major role in the region's economic development.

Around the 14th century, natural areas often began to silt up and Het Zwin became less and less accessible to ships. By the end of the 16th century, Het Zwin was largely no longer accessible to shipping. Bruges lost its status as a trading town to Antwerp and later to other ports. What remained was a unique nature reserve that developed into a valuable tidal area.

The route takes you further through the town of Sluis, a town with an illustrious past. In the Middle Ages, it was the most important Burgundian port and Philip the Good married Isabella of Portugal there. In the 13th century, Sluis was not only an important trading town, but was also used as a home base for troops in the Hundred Years' War. A Belfry was built, a large bell tower that rang when there was danger. During the Eighty Years' War, the town again played an important role. In 1587, Sluis was conquered by the Spaniards. A year later, the town was recaptured by the States.

At the same time, a retrenchment was built between the forts of Oranje and Nassau. After Fort Oranje was partly destroyed during a storm flood, a dam was built there, which eventually grew into the town of Retranchement. During this cycle route, you will discover the rich history and nature of this special area!