Knokke-Heist and the Zwin

Knokke-Heist is the upmarket beach resort at the northeastern end of the Belgian coast, in West Flanders in Belgium's Flemish Region, about 25 km from Bruges. SNCB trains from Bruges reach Knokke in around 25 minutes, and the train is the recommended mode. From the station, the beach and the Zeedijk Albertstrand are a walk of about 15 to 20 minutes, and the Kusttram or a De Lijn bus link the town with the Zwin. Knokke is known for its galleries, designer shops on Lippenslaan and the seafront promenade, and Het Zoute, a leafy residential district with private villas and a golf course. The beach is wide and sandy, with beach clubs along the dyke. The Zwin nature reserve lies at the Dutch border, a tidal inlet with salt marshes and an important area for birds, including storks that nest in the reserve's aviary; the site has marked walking trails, a visitor centre and an entry fee of about €10 to €14. A day can begin with the Zwin in the morning, when birds are most active and the paths are quiet, followed by lunch in Het Zoute or on the seafront. The afternoon suits the beach, the galleries on and around Lippenslaan and a stroll along the promenade. Local food includes grey shrimp, fish soup and waffles. The best season is April to October, because the reserve's migratory birds are at their best in spring and autumn, while the beach is best in summer. Winter offers quiet sea walks, though some beach clubs close. Return tickets from Bruges cost about €4 to €6 each way, so the trip is affordable, and the short journey leaves plenty of time for an evening return to Bruges.