Masters by the sea

Paul Delvaux’s oeuvre is a world full of mystery. In the museum, you can admire his masterpiece La Gare Forestiere, in which two girls look out at a railway station in the middle of a dark forest.

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In the mood for more mystery? Follow the Paul Delvaux walk; view the fishing village of Saint-Idesbald through the eyes of the artist. During this walk, you can listen to the Podcast ‘Paul Delvaux in Saint-Idesbald’, which immerses you in the life and love story of the famous painter.

Or would you prefer to be on a bike? Then these cycling tours are right up your street: Cycling through the life of Paul Delvaux and Cycling Route Paul Delvaux and hinterland.

The master was good friends with another painter from St Idesbald, George Grard. The walk aptly named ‘Uit Vriendschap’ (out of Friendship) pays homage to the close bond between the two artists. You can take this tour during school holidays or book it for your party (visitkoksijde.be).
Does the introduction to George Grard leave you wanting more? Then get your fill at Kunstencentrum Ten Bogaerde, where an entire room is devoted to the artist. The nine monumental sculptures in the garden are also his creations.

Feeling thirsty after your art tour? Then choose a spot on the convivial terrace - with a view of the pond - and enjoy the locally brewed beer from brouwerij Sint-Idesbald. Also feeling a bit peckish? Then be sure to find a table at restaurant Mondieu.

Didn’t bring your trusty steed with you? No problem. Here you can find all the info about shared bikes in Koksijde. 

Constant Permeke lived and worked at this place from 1929 until his death in 1952. The modernist artist provided the sketches for the design of this country house, which he christened De Vier Winden (The Four Winds). You can admire some of the gems from his oeuvre, including Boerin, Over Permeke and De Sjees.

In the renovated garden of the Permeke Museum, there is a green oasis that brings Permeke’s artistic vision to life. Stroll along the winding paths and serene nooks, where art and nature blend harmoniously. This is the ideal place to unwind after your museum visit, with the master’s atelier in the background. A unique experience that draws you into the soul of his work!

This atelier is a unique stop on your Master Tour. Here, you discover the dynamic spatial effect and the concentrated use of light that characterises the artist’s oeuvre. The highlight of your visit is Environnement I, a work that illustrates the artist’s infinite spatial verticalism.

Knokke’s bustling art scene is sure to attract the art lover in you. Wander through the atmospheric streets with prominent galleries, brimming with modern and contemporary art. Both top international artists and emerging talent are rightfully placed in the spotlight here.

In Knokke, it is a small step from culture to nature. Enhance your art experience with a visit to the nearby Zwin Nature Park. This beautiful nature reserve is widely known as ‘an international airport for migratory birds’. If you’re lucky, you might spot a rare black stork, little tern or red-footed falcon.

The Zwin region is perfect for exploring on foot or by bicycle. Looking for something with a little more kick along the way? Then have a go at packrafting and reach the most hidden places via the many watercourses. Speaking of hidden places, how about a visit to the Lost ports of the Zwin?