Historical scars amidst nature gems in the eastern corner of Knokke

Seven centuries of human influence amidst nature gems in the Oosthoek. Saturday, June 6, at 2:30 PM, you are welcome on the walk, organized by Natuurpunt Knokke-Heist. We start at the Oosthoekplein in the sub-municipality of Knokke. Natuurgids Luc Lierman will take you along the Nieuwe Hazegrasdijk, via the Léon Lippensdreef and the Wiedauwpad to the Groenpleinduinen. Just like the walks in early April and early May, the walk follows the same route. However, nature shows its newest sides: early spring has turned into early summer. You can clearly notice this in the changes in flora (flowers, shrubs, …) and fauna (storks, swallows, and other breeding birds are diligently looking for food for their offspring). Walking in the Zwinduinen is not possible without delving into the rich local history. De Oosthoek and its surroundings today are not what the Oosthoek was from 1627 onwards. The traces that human intervention has left behind can still be seen in the rich, varied landscape. Through many surprising anecdotes, you will learn more about it. For example, the various dikes and remains of dike breaches can still be recognized. There is the changed dune in the Groenpleinduinen from the beginning of the 20th century: this was the 1st Golf course in Knokke! The future new golf course will actually be the 3rd Golf course! In the Wiedauwpad, you will learn more about the relationship between a willow grove and the profession of a basket weaver. Expect a walk full of interesting facts and short stories… The current management of Zwinduinen will also be discussed: the importance of using various large grazers, such as Konik horses, Scottish Highlanders, and the smaller Dune goats. Through different ways of grazing, they create a beautiful mosaic landscape. The clattering of the storks on their nest, but also the barn swallows, which diligently bring insects to their young, form a part of this nature walk by Natuurpunt. Everyone is welcome on this walk of +/- 5 km. When: Saturday, June 6 at 2:30 PM Meeting place: Oosthoekplein in Knokke-Heist, by the plane trees. Due to the works at the Oosthoek, the square is slightly more difficult to reach. Parking is possible in the Bronlaan opposite Hotel St. Pol. Via de Paulusstraat, the Oosthoekplein can already be reached easily. Leden van Natuurpunt and their family can participate for free, non-members pay € 3 per person or € 5 per family. Registering in advance is allowed, but not mandatory. Footwear: good walking shoes. Don't forget the sunscreen (Fight against cancer…!)