Visitor Centre Het Zwin - Nature

The visitor centre Het Zwin in Knokke-Heist forms the modern gateway to the famous nature reserve Het Zwin, located on the border between Belgium and the Netherlands between Knokke-Heist and Cadzand-Bad.

What can you expect at the visitor centre of Het Zwin?

This interactive nature park is known as the ‘international airport for birds’ and is a great destination for nature lovers, walkers and families.

• Interactive Visitor Centre: In the modern centre you will discover everything about migratory birds, tides and the unique landscape of Het Zwin through interactive exhibitions.
• Exhibition ‘Fly with the Zwin Migratory Birds’: Experience a fascinating journey through the world of birds and discover how they prepare for long migrations. Test your skills in the danger cockpit, learn to fly like a bird and virtually hatch your own bird eggs.
• The Cabin Trail: Walk past various experience cabins in the park, such as a feeding hut, listening hut, viewing hut and laboratories for fresh and salt water. From these cabins you can observe birds and learn more about nature in the Zwin area.
• Panorama Towers and Viewing Points: Climb the panorama towers for an impressive 360° view over the Zwin plain, the dunes, polders and even the sea. The stork tower also brings you face to face with nesting storks.
• The Zwin Plain: Take a walk through the unique tidal landscape of mudflats and salt marshes, where salt water creates a special flora and fauna. With around 350 bird species, this is one of the most important bird areas in Flanders.
• Activities and Guided Tours: Guided tours, workshops and excursions for all ages are organised throughout the year. During school holidays there are extra activities and educational programmes for children.
• Family Friendly Nature Park: Het Zwin is ideal for families. Children learn about nature in a playful way through interactive displays, workshops and the popular barefoot trail of approximately 2 kilometres along various bird hides.
• Food and Drink: At the visitor centre you will find a cosy bistro and a picnic terrace. In the park itself, food and drinks are not permitted in order to protect nature, but vending machines with snacks and drinks are available at the visitor centre.

A Unique Nature Experience at Het Zwin

Het Zwin Nature Park is a protected nature reserve where sea, dunes and polders meet. Due to the influence of the tides, the landscape is constantly changing, making every visit different. From blooming sea lavender fields in summer to wintering birds in winter, there is something special to see all year round.

Practical information

• Location: The visitor centre is located near Knokke-Heist, close to the Dutch border and near Cadzand-Bad, and forms the entrance to the Belgian part of Het Zwin.
• Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes when exploring the Zwin plain and take the tides into account.
• Opening hours: Consult the website of Het Zwin Nature Park for current opening hours, admission prices and activities.

Visit Het Zwin Nature Park for an engaging and interactive journey of discovery through one of the most remarkable nature reserves in the Low Countries.

Let yourself be carried away into the world of migratory birds and discover the unique nature of Het Zwin in Knokke-Heist!

Furthermore Visitor Centre Het Zwin is near the following sights: Het Zwin (±1,5 km), Surf Club Surfers Paradise (±1,6 km), Dutch-Belgian Border Posts (±1,7 km), Panorama Pier near Retranchement (±2,1 km) & Play Meadow Retranchement (±2,3 km).

For information

Graaf Léon Lippensdreef 8, Knokke-Heist
web. Website