Along the coast between Blankenberge and Ostend

It is wonderful to travel a few kilometres along the coastline from Blankenberge to Ostend, to unwind and enjoy the magnificent views over the sea. The history of Ostend dates back to the ninth century, when the first traces of habitation were found. Fishermen lived off what the sea had to offer them and shepherds herded their animals across the fields. In 814, the then tiny village was donated to the Abbey of Saint-Bertinus in Saint-Omer, but in 1267 the town of Ostend was granted its own city rights. Despite this, Ostend had no walls, fortresses or strongholds to ward off enemies. In 1372 the city was fortified with palisades, but eventually the town lost out to an indestructible enemy and the inhabitants had to surrender a large part of Ostend to constant floods and heavy storms. After a last, major flood, the city was largely relocated in 1447 and Ostend came to lie further away from the sea. Camping Dallas is the starting and ending point of this cycle route. It is a great location to spend the night, so close to the sea. You will fall asleep and wake up with the sound of the surf, and you can camp here in comfort and luxury. After your cycle tour, you can pamper your muscles with the warmth of a sauna or enjoy bubbling in the jacuzzi. Cycle route 142640 also leads from the campsite through the area, so you can enjoy a wonderful cycling holiday.