De Manteling, wide beaches and dunes shape Oostkapelle’s connection to nature; historic estates, Kasteel Westhove and the Dorpskerk add a cultural and historical dimension. When planning your stay, you can choose between different priorities: landscapes and routes on the one hand, and architectural and local history on the other. The route that suits you also depends on whether you want to explore on foot or by bike.

Dune Landscapes and Routes

The De Manteling nature area covers about 740 hectares and is located in Oostkapelle. High dunes, wet dune valleys and dry grassy dune landscapes give the area a variety of landscape forms. The natural environment is therefore not limited to dunes, but also includes the contrast between wet valleys and drier grasslands.

The nearby coastal area of Oranjezon lies between Oostkapelle and Vrouwenpolder. Its landscape includes beach, high dunes, dune valleys, scrubland and forest. So alongside the beach and dunes, scrubland and forest also shape the scenery.

For a walk, the 9.5-kilometre “Struinen door bos en duin” route passes through De Manteling. The “Fietsen door de Manteling en historisch Veere” cycling route is 39 kilometres long and runs partly along winding paths through the nature area. The difference in length makes it easy to compare the routes: the cycling route is just over four times as long as the walking route, and each calls for a different way of getting around. Check the current route conditions before setting out, as they may change.

Estates, Museum and Local History

Terra Maris is housed in the former orangery of Kasteel Westhove and is located in the De Manteling nature area. Its exhibitions explore the history of Zeeland’s landscape and the diversity of Zeeland’s nature. The museum also has a 2.5-hectare landscape garden, where Zeeland’s different landscape types are represented on a small scale. The exhibition and garden offer two perspectives on nature: the history and diversity of the landscape, and a miniature representation in the garden.

The historic Duinbeek estate lies northwest of Oostkapelle’s built-up centre, at the edge of the dunes. It was first mentioned in a feudal grant in 1350. The house that still stands today, however, was built in 1715 in the Neoclassical style. The estate’s first recorded mention and the construction of the present-day house are therefore two distinct historical reference points.

Berkenbosch is another historic estate, west of Oostkapelle. Four rectangular ponds remain there, regarded as a rare water feature in the history of Dutch parks and estates. Kasteel Westhove also links history with present-day use: only the lower sections of some towers and remnants of masonry remain from the medieval castle; the Kasteel currently houses a Stayokay hostel. If you are considering staying there, check availability for your travel dates before booking.

The Dorpskerk in Oostkapelle is a remnant of a 15th-century church that was altered in the 17th century. Its tower can be climbed, and the tower gallery offers a view. Climbing the tower may be seasonal, so check before your visit whether it is open for climbing on your chosen date.

Discover more destinations: Dishoek, Westkapelle, Domburg, Gapinge, Serooskerke, Grijpskerke, Vrouwenpolder, Meliskerke.

For the overview of the wider area: Veere.