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