Discover Westkapelle: local history and coastal landscape
Accommodation in Westkapelle
When looking for a hotel in Westkapelle, you can choose what to explore based on the themes you want to shape your stay: local history, maritime structures, or nature observation. These themes can be found at specific places—from the Polderhuis Museum to the Westkappelse Zeedijk and the Noordervroon.
History and cultural heritage
The Polderhuis Museum presents the history of Westkapelle, its centuries-long struggle with the North Sea, the town’s wartime history, the Battle of the Scheldt, and the subsequent reconstruction. The museum therefore covers both coastal history and the events of the Second World War.
On 1 November 1944, Westkapelle was the first place on Walcheren to be liberated. Several locations in the town commemorate the bombing of Westkapelle during the Second World War. At the foot of the dike is the landing craft LCT 737. Among other things, it is loaded with the Bramble 5 tank, also known as “De Krab.”
The town’s cultural identity also includes its own traditions, dialect, traditional dress, and folk song. The Noorman is another distinctive part of the local heritage: it is the only windmill still standing in Westkapelle.
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. Check the latest visitor information before your visit, as access arrangements and facilities may change.
Dike, lighthouse, and shipping
The Westkappelse Zeedijk is five kilometres long. Construction began in the 15th century; over time, the dike has been raised and reinforced repeatedly. Its construction and subsequent alterations tell the story of the long development of coastal protection in this area.
The ’t Lage Licht lighthouse combines a distinctive design with a maritime function: it is the first round cast-iron tower in the Netherlands. Together with the Zuiderhoofd, it forms a navigational line of lights that guides ships towards Breskens. The lighthouse stands out for its design, while the light line serves as a navigational aid for shipping.
Nature and activities
The Noordervroon lies directly north of Westkapelle and is an area rich in water and birdlife. It is not accessible, but you can get a good view of it from the surrounding area. In spring, dozens of black-headed gulls, common terns, and pied avocets nest on its bare islets. This distinction matters when planning: you can view the area from the surrounding area, but you cannot visit the Noordervroon itself.
The Kreek offers another nature experience: it remains salty and is home to fish such as flounder, eel, and trout. If you are interested in an interactive route, the Parelroute “Verdediging” uses a question-and-letter format: answer questions along the route, collect letters, and put them together to form a word at the end. Dogs are allowed on a leash. Check the latest route information beforehand.
At the end of the Panoramaweg, between Westkapelle and Domburg, there is a surf spot. It is not suitable for beginners—a key distinction to bear in mind if you are considering this activity during your stay.
Discover more destinations: Aagtekerke, Dishoek, Koudekerke, Meliskerke, Oostkapelle, Vrouwenpolder, Domburg, Biggekerke.
For the wider travel overview: Veere.
