Coast & Sea

The Belgian coast offers far more than beach and sea. Along a strip of barely seventy kilometres, you will find a surprising mix of history, art and nature, and the good news is that many of these attractions are well accessible for wheelchair users. This route connects four remarkable locations between Ostend and Zeebrugge, which you can visit over one or two days. The Kusttram (coastal tram), which serves the entire coastline, is an excellent means of transport: the newer trams are equipped with low-floor boarding and wheelchair spaces.

Start your route in Ostend at Fort Napoleon, an impressive nineteenth-century fort built by Napoleon to defend the harbour. The fort has been thoroughly restored and converted into a visitor centre with exhibitions on the military history of the coast. Access is level and the main spaces are wheelchair accessible. Its location on the edge of the dunes offers a beautiful view across the beach. Then head to the centre of Ostend to visit Mu.ZEE, the museum of modern and contemporary art by the sea. The museum, housed in a former department store, has lifts to all floors and spacious, light-filled galleries. The collection includes works by Belgian masters such as James Ensor, Leon Spilliaert and Raoul De Keyser.

After Ostend, take the Kusttram towards Zeebrugge for Seafront, the maritime theme park at the harbour. Here you can discover the world of the sea through interactive exhibitions, a Russian submarine and a lightship. The park is largely wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and adapted toilets. Ask at the ticket desk about any limitations regarding the submarine, as the narrow passage can be challenging.

Finish your coastal route at Raversyde, the open-air museum west of Ostend with a unique collection of bunkers and positions from the First and Second World Wars. The estate lies in the dunes and part of the paths are paved and accessible, but some bunkers are difficult to reach by wheelchair due to stairs and narrow entrances. The above-ground section and the visitor centre are fully accessible. Practical tips: be mindful of wind along the coast, especially in autumn and winter. The Ostend sea wall is wide and flat, ideal for rolling. Disabled parking spaces are available at all four locations. Bring a warm jacket, as the sea breeze can be chilly even on sunny days.