The First World War transformed the Flanders Fields Country into the most dramatic war landscape in Belgium. The region was marked and marred by four years of bitter conflict. The reminders are everywhere to be seen. But this region is more than just World War One. Nowadays, it offers a pleasing landscape, making the region an ideal place to walk or cycle. Or visit the authentic villages and towns and enjoy some of the world famous locallybrewed beers.
Day 1:
Nieuwpoort, Diksmuide, Ypres Arrival at Calais port by ferry (1h drive to Nieuwpoort)
Ganzepoot Opens autumn 2014 In Nieuwpoort, an innovative visitor centre will be built on the site of the King Albert Monument, next to the Ganzenpoot (Goose Foot) lock complex. The centre will be dedicated to the flooding of the Yser plain. During
the Battle of the Yser, the river was deliberately flooded from Nieuwpoort to Diksmuide to create an obstacle to the advancing German Army. On top of the King Albert Monument, visitors will soon have an impressive view of the Yser Plain. The popular BBC Two drama series, Parade’s End, based on four novels of Ford Madox Ford, was partly filmed in Nieuwpoort and other parts of the Westhoek. >> Langestraat, Nieuwpoort. (20 min drive to Diksmuide)
Yser tower Due spring 2014 The renovated Yser tower Museum in Diksmuide tells the story of the BelgianGerman confrontation during World War 1 through the stories of soldiers, refugees and civilians on both sides of the front line. It is not limited to an historical overview but also aims to inform the visitor about the perception of the historical setting at the time. Aspects of the political consequences of the First World War, which resulted in the Flemish emancipation, are also explored. The Museum aims to relay an obligatory message highlighting the importance of “No More War!” >> IJzerdijk 49, Diksmuide