Het Zwin Nature Reserve

The domain is divided between the communities of Bruges, Damme, Knokke-Heist, Sluis, Aardenburg and Oostburg. It is one of the most important mud-flat and tidal-marsh areas of the coast and is flooded on a daily basis by the sea. This exchange makes Het Zwin Provincial Nature Reserve a unique habitat with rich vegetation and vast numbers of birds coming to forage or spend the winter. A typical plant in the domain is the so-called ‘Zwinneblomme’ or common sea lavender. This plant covers the plain in purple flowers from the end of July or beginning of August. Het Zwin is mainly known for its groups of storks residing there. Visitors can also go on a guided walk. Visit the park too, with its bird cages harbouring approximately 110 indigenous bird species. Wellies and binoculars are certainly good things to take.