Nieuwe Sluis Lighthouse

Nieuwe Sluis Lighthouse towers above the dunes and dike, watching over the Western Scheldt – a true eye-catcher and must-see for visitors to the Zeeland coast.

What makes Nieuwe Sluis Lighthouse so special?

• Climb the Tower: During the tourist season, you can climb the lighthouse. After more than 90 steps, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the Western Scheldt and, on clear days, the Flemish coast.
• Gateway to Exploration: The area offers beautiful walking and cycling routes through the dunes and along the beach. Combine your visit with a drink at a beach pavilion or some fresh fish in nearby Breskens.
• Historic Heritage: Built in 1867 by Quirinus Harder, this is the oldest surviving cast-iron lighthouse in the Netherlands.
• Striking Appearance: The black-and-white stripes make the octagonal tower a distinctive landmark along the coast of West Zeeuws-Vlaanderen.
• Strategic Location: The lighthouse stands on the sea dike near Nieuwesluis, just west of Breskens, guiding ships between the North Sea and Antwerp.
• Rich History: The tower has withstood storms, wars, and dike reinforcements. Once standing atop the dike, it now stands on the seaward side.
• Changing Looks: Originally yellow, then red and white, it gained its iconic black-and-white stripes later.
• Unique Construction: The optics were made by French company Barbier, Benard & Turenne, and the lantern is topped with a beautiful copper dome.

Key Features

• Name: Nieuwe Sluis
• Year Built: 1867
• Tower Height: 22.4 m
• Focal Height (above sea level): 28 m
• Floors: 5
• Steps: 93
• Listed Monument: National monument since 1982
• Staffed: No
• Open to the public: Yes

Practical Information

• Opening hours: Usually open during summer months on Saturdays and Sundays. Check the Nieuwe Sluis lighthouse website for up-to-date times.
• How to get there: Reachable on foot via a short walk through the dunes. Parking is available nearby at the lot on Slikkenburgseweg.
• Accessibility: The tower can only be climbed via stairs and is less suitable for those with reduced mobility.
• A Photographer’s Dream: The lighthouse is a favourite among photographers – appearing on postcards, souvenirs and Instagram feeds. At sunset, the view is truly magical.

An Unforgettable Visit to the Zeeland Coast

With its rich history, bold presence, and panoramic views, the Nieuwe Sluis Lighthouse is a must-see icon for young and old alike. Whether you're into history, photography, or a breezy coastal walk – this lighthouse completes your visit to Breskens!

Furthermore Nieuwe Sluis Lighthouse is near the following sights: Swimming pool Scheldeveste (±1,7 km), Waterdunen (±1,9 km), Groede Podium (±2,8 km), De Festijn (±3,1 km) & Het Vlaemsche Erfgoed (±3,2 km).

For information

Panoramaweg 1, Breskens
web. Website