Enjoy Holland in Westkapelle | Holiday houses and apartments at Italiavillas

About Westkapelle: An idyllic gem on Walcheren

Westkapelle is a quiet and atmospheric coastal village located on the westernmost tip of the Walcheren peninsula in the Dutch province of Zeeland. The village is well hidden just behind the formidable Westkappelse Zeedijk — a massive, 5-kilometer-long sea dike — and offers a relaxed, peaceful alternative to the busier and more touristy nearby resorts.

The town’s characteristic skyline is dominated by two iconic lighthouses, each with its own unique history. The most striking is Westkapelle Hoog, a 52-meter-high converted Gothic church tower from the 15th century. The other is Noorderhoofd, a bright red iron lighthouse that stands right on the dike itself facing the North Sea.

Accommodation and holiday homes

For travellers looking to book a holiday in the area, Westkapelle offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget.

Holiday parks and luxury villas

In the area close to the dunes you will find spacious holiday homes and exclusive luxury villas. These homes often have private gardens and lovely sunny terraces where you can enjoy the fresh sea air in peaceful surroundings.

Cozy apartments and traditional cottages

Inside the village itself and directly on the coast, charming holiday apartments and traditional Dutch brick houses are offered. From here there is direct access to both the sea dike, the beach and the local life of the town.

A dramatic and powerful history

Westkapelle was originally an important fishing centre in the Middle Ages and has fought a constant battle against the powerful forces of the North Sea throughout the centuries.

In October 1944, during World War II, the village was struck by a fateful event. Allied forces deliberately bombed the massive sea dike to flood the Walcheren, forcing the occupying German troops away during the decisive Battle of the Scheldt. The village was largely destroyed by the floodwaters, but the local residents showed incredible resilience and quickly rebuilt both their town and the protective dike after the war. Today, the local Polderhuis Museum tells the gripping story of the war, the flood and the town's impressive engineering triumphs.

Unique nature and coastlines

The nature around Westkapelle is characterised by dramatic contrasts and breathtaking landscapes.

Zeeland Riviera

The area is known for its south-facing, extensive sandy beaches. Due to their southern location, these beaches receive some of the highest sunshine hours in the entire Netherlands.

Dramatic dunes and green polders

Mighty sand dunes tower along the coast, creating a beautiful contrast to the lush, flat, green polders that extend inland behind the dike.

Westkapelle Creek (Kreek)

This unique brackish water lake was created by the sea floods during World War II. Today, the lake serves as a quiet, protected nature reserve surrounded by beautiful forest and rich birdlife.

Gastronomy and typical local specialties

When visiting Westkapelle, there are plenty of opportunities to sample traditional Zeeland cuisine.

Sweet treats

Zeeuwse Bolus: A famous sweet and sticky spiral dough rolled in dark brown sugar and cinnamon before baking.

Boterbabbelaars: The traditional hard butter caramel candies that have been a staple of local culture for generations.

Fresh fish, shellfish and sea vegetables

The beach pavilions serve fresh plates of local Zeeland mussels (Zeeuwse mosselen), exclusive Oosterschelde lobster, wild oysters and the popular breaded and fried kibbeling. As a side dish, salty sea vegetables such as wild kraal (glaze) and lamsoor (sea oysters), harvested directly along the nearby mudflats, are often served.

Activities and experiences

There are plenty of activities for both active travelers and those seeking cultural impressions.

World-class water sports

The specific point where the North Sea meets the sea wall creates some of the biggest and most challenging waves in Zeeland. This makes the area an absolute hotspot for experienced surfers and kitesurfers.

View from the lighthouse

One of the most popular experiences is to climb the 207 steps of Westkapelle Hoogs. From the top, you are rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view of the entire Walcheren peninsula and the sea.

Hiking and cycling

Kilometers of well-maintained and paved coastal paths wind their way all the way around the sea wall, through the dune landscape and on towards charming neighboring towns such as Domburg and Zoutelande.

Local festivals and traditional events

Throughout the year, and especially in the summer months, Westkapelle is the setting for unique traditions.

Ring riding (Ringrijden)

A centuries-old Zeeland tradition held during the summer. Here, riders on horses without a saddle gallop down the street while trying to hit and catch a small hanging ring with their lance.

Fairs and summer markets

In wholeIn July and August, weekly tourist markets with local crafts, fresh produce and cozy fairs are held in the city streets.

Atmospheric lighthouse evenings

During the season, special evening openings are arranged, where visitors have the unique opportunity to experience the lighthouses and the view after dark.

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