Confession #1: I’m not really a museum person. Confession #2: I’m definitely not a military museum person.
So no one was more surprised than me when I actually really enjoyed my visit to the Atlantic Wall in Ostend, Belgium!
The Atlantic Wall is ranked the #1 attraction of Things to Do in Ostend on TripAdvisor.com. Prior to my visit, I found it odd that a military museum had this honor, especially when Ostend has such incredible beaches! But after my visit to the open-air museum, I understood why.
Backing up a little for those unfamiliar with its history as I was, the Atlantic Wall was a fortification built by the Germans. It was used in both WWI and WWII. Unsurprisingly the best preserved parts of the fortification are those from WWII. It was built to stop the attack from the allies. But in reality it saw little action as the Allies attacked in Normandy. It was strategically located, meeting the shoreline of the North Sea.
The Atlantic Wall was very strategically located, meeting the North Sea.
I think the reason that I enjoyed my visit so much is because visitors get to retrace the literal steps of German soldiers. The two hour self-guided audio tour takes visitors through over 2km of trenches, 60 bunkers, observation points and gun sites. You are literally where the soldiers were.
Cannon lined up in a strategic position to defend against the Allies coming from the North Sea
Even without a military background, I immediately recognized how strategically the fortification was set up.
One of many bunkers found in the open-air military museum
Glimpsing inside the bunkers, I quickly realized that I wouldn’t want to spend a couple of days there, much less longer. Most of the daily activities (minus being on look out) occurred underground, in windowless and largely lightless conditions. The bomb shelters were even more grim – although admittedly better than the alternative.
Obstacles hidden along the coast of the North Sea to prevent the Allies from approaching
These obstacles were placed near the shoreline, but hidden under water in high tide, when the enemy was most likely to attack. They prevent the enemy ships from getting close to shore. With a little bit of luck, might even damage the ship.
The open-air military museum houses more than 2km of trenches that visitors can walk through.
Walking through the 2km of trenches makes it easier to visualize how life must have been like for the soldiers stationed there.
View that shows the strategic position of the Atlantic Wall
Despite my lack of interest in military history, I really enjoyed my visit to the Atlantic Wall. Being able to actually tour the fortification, really brought the history to life – much more interesting than just looking at photos or old weapons in a traditional museum. I would highly recommend a visit.
Atlantic Wall: Know Before You Go
- You can walk there directly from Ostend along the beautiful beach promenade as we did (~ 90 minute walk), or take the tram which stops directly across from the museum.
- Bring a map as the entrance to the museum is a bit difficult to find and not on the main road.
- The 2 hour self-guided audio tour through the open-air museum costs a very reasonable €6.50.
- A combi-ticket which also includes the Raversyde Anno 1465 ( a recreation of a medieval fishing village) costs €9.75.
- Raversyde Atlantic Wall is open from 10:30 to 5:00 pm. The Raversyde Anno is only open from 2:00 – 5:00 pm.
- The military museum is an open-air museum, which as the name suggests means it’s outside. Dress accordingly as you’ll be outside for ~ 2 hours.
- Toilets are only available at the entrance, not mid-way through the tour, so go before you start the tour.
- For further info check the official website here.