Westkapelle combines dike history with a lighthouse, local traditions and nature rich in birdlife. If you are looking for a hotel in Westkapelle, these different highlights can help you choose a destination: local history, coastal structures and nature watching sit side by side here. You can then decide which aspect matters most to your trip, rather than assuming a fixed itinerary.

Local history and architecture

The Polderhuis Museum explores the history of Westkapelle and its centuries-long struggle with the North Sea. Exhibition topics may change; if you want to visit for a particular subject, check the latest information. The Polderhuis also has a museum café and a museum garden with a terrace.

The Polderhuis observation tower can only be accessed through the museum. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible and has a lift and an accessible toilet. If you plan to visit the tower or use these facilities, check the current visitor information in advance.

Noorman is the only windmill still standing in Westkapelle. Local culture also extends beyond buildings: Westkapelle has its own traditions, dialect, traditional dress and folk song. The town’s cultural identity therefore encompasses both individual historic structures and language and other forms of expression.

Dike, lighthouse and coast

The Westkapelse Zeedijk is five kilometres long. Construction began in the 15th century; over time, the dike was repeatedly raised and reinforced. Its length, early construction and subsequent changes describe different aspects of the same structure: its scale, its historical beginnings and its ongoing development. Its history is therefore not defined by a single construction date.

The 't Lage Licht lighthouse is the first round cast-iron tower in the Netherlands. Together with the Zuiderhoofd, it forms a navigational line of lights that shows ships the way to Breskens. The lighthouse can thus be viewed both as a distinctive structure and in the context of its maritime function.

Nature around Westkapelle

Noordervroon lies just north of Westkapelle. The area, rich in water and especially in birdlife, is not accessible, but can be viewed clearly from the surrounding area. In spring, dozens of black-headed gulls, common terns and avocets nest on the bare islets. Those hoping to observe these particular breeding birds have a specific seasonal point of interest.

The Kreek also has its own natural character: it remains salty and is home to fish such as flounder, eel and trout. This means the breeding birds of Noordervroon and the fish species of the Kreek offer different subjects for observation.

Routes and activities

The Parelroute “Verdediging” is interactive: along the route, you answer questions and collect letters, which you then use to form a word at the end. Dogs are allowed on a leash on this route. As local access rules may change, check the latest information before setting out.

At the end of the Panorama Path, between Westkapelle and Domburg, there is a surf spot that is not suitable for beginners. If you are considering this activity, check the current conditions and local rules in advance.

Discover more destinations: Vrouwenpolder, Koudekerke, Dishoek, Zoutelande, Serooskerke, Gapinge, Aagtekerke, Grijpskerke

For the overview of the wider area: Veere.