Fortification Ramparts of Retranchement - Nature

The fortification ramparts of Retranchement form a small nature area where history and nature come together. Surrounded by water and greenery, you walk here over old defensive ramparts, along moats and through a varied landscape.

What can you expect at the fortification ramparts of Retranchement?

The area of around 27 hectares is a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy the nature of Zeeland.

• Unique Fortification Landscape: Walk over high ramparts and along low moats and discover the most beautiful spots of the small, charming village of Retranchement.
• Varied Nature: The area consists of a mosaic of dykes, meadows, hawthorn hedges, pollard trees, traditional orchard trees and drinking ponds. With a bit of luck, you may hear tree frogs in spring and spot various bird species.
• Historic Defence Works: The ramparts were constructed in 1604 during the Eighty Years’ War (1568–1648) on the orders of Prince Maurits to protect the Zwin channel from the Spanish.

Walking Route over the Ramparts of Retranchement

• Varied Walk: The foundation Het Zeeuwse Landschap has created a beautiful walking route of about 3.5 kilometres across the historic ramparts.
• Nature and Heritage: You walk alongside waters where tree frogs croak and turtle doves coo, while discovering remarkable historical features at the same time.
• Peace and Views: Benches are placed along the route where you can take a break and enjoy the views over the landscape and the water.
• Rich Cultural History: Along the way you encounter border posts, bunkers and old dyke structures. Information panels tell you more about the history of the forts.
  • Fort Nassau: Part of the route runs from the picnic area on the Dorpsstraat towards Fort Nassau and is marked with wooden posts.
  • Fort Berchem: Fort Berchem can be reached via a drawbridge from the Oude Zeedijk.
• Through the Village of Retranchement: Part of the walk leads through the picturesque village itself, offering a pleasant mix of nature and culture.
• Easy to Combine: The walk can easily be combined with the walking route through the Willem Leopoldpolder for a longer exploration.

Practical information

• Starting Point and Parking: You can park at the large car park at the junction of the Knokkeweg and Kanaalweg. The walking route also starts from the Dorpsstraat.
• Accessibility: The area is easily accessible on foot or by bicycle and suitable for a relaxed walk in every season.

Visit the fortification ramparts of Retranchement and experience a wonderful mix of nature, history and tranquillity in the beautiful Zeeuws-Vlaanderen landscape!

Furthermore Fortification Ramparts of Retranchement is near the following sights: Fort Nassau (±300 m), Mill of Retranchement (±450 m), Willem Leopoldpolder (±450 m), Fort Berchem (±750 m) & Play Meadow Retranchement (±750 m).

For information

Molenstraat, Retranchement