De Haan(Belgium) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Dhein, the top choice for families is Hotel De L'Abbaye, a boutique hotel housed in a renovated 12th-century abbey. It offers spacious family rooms, child-friendly amenities, and direct access to Dhein Beach and the historic city center. Nearby attractions include nature trails, petting farms, and the Dhein Festival, which features kid-oriented activities. The hotel also serves authentic Flemish cuisine, including hearty Carbonnade and local beer. For budget travelers, B&B Hotel Dendermonde offers modern rooms, free parking, and a 15-minute drive to Dhein’s heart. Both options provide a welcoming atmosphere for multi-generational stays.

The city center of Dhein is the ideal area for lodging, offering easy access to landmarks like St. Mary's Church, the Town Hall, and the pedestrian-friendly market square. It’s just a 10-minute walk from Dhein Beach, perfect for seaside relaxation. The district is safe, well-lit, and filled with cozy cafés, artisan shops, and local eateries. For a quieter stay, consider Aster Lake, a scenic lakeside neighborhood with eco-friendly guesthouses surrounded by forests and birdwatching spots—ideal for those seeking peace and natural beauty.

Don’t miss the annual Dhein Festival, a vibrant summer celebration featuring street performances, traditional Flemish music, craft markets, and local beer tastings. Visit the Museum Dhein to explore the town’s evolution from a fishing village to a modern cultural hub. The St. Mary’s Church offers panoramic views from its bell tower and houses stunning medieval stained glass. Try authentic Flemish Carbonnade, served with fries and a pint of regional ale. Stroll through the old town’s cobbled lanes, where every corner reveals history and charm.

Seaside hotels in Dhein, such as Hotel Strand Dhein, provide private beach access, sun loungers, and shaded umbrellas. Many offer water sports rentals like kayaking and paddleboarding, along with guided coastal bike tours. Some feature ocean-view restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties. Breakfast often includes house-made bread, Belgian cheeses, and seasonal fruits. Eco-conscious practices—like solar energy use and biodegradable toiletries—are standard, aligning with sustainable tourism values in West Flanders.

For couples, Hotel De L'Abbaye stands out as a dreamy retreat. Housed in a centuries-old abbey, each room blends historic charm with modern comfort, featuring private terraces overlooking lush gardens. Enjoy a candlelit dinner on the rooftop terrace, listening to the distant chimes of St. Mary’s Church. The hotel offers customized honeymoon packages, including couples’ spa treatments, sunset city walks, and handwritten love notes. Nearby Aster Lake Pathway is perfect for quiet evening strolls, making it an ideal setting for romance.

Near Dhein, explore the Aster Lake Nature Reserve, a 6-km loop trail winding through wetlands, reed beds, and bird habitats—ideal for photography and wildlife spotting. Another must-visit is the Flemish Uplands Trail, a scenic route through rolling farmland and ancient oak forests, passing abandoned farmhouses and stone bridges. Bring binoculars for birdwatching or rent a bicycle to ride along the riverbanks. Interpretive signs along the path explain local geology and ecology, making it educational for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Must-try dishes in Dhein include Flemish Carbonnade—slow-cooked beef stew in red wine with onions and potatoes—and Dhein-style fries, crispy and served with a mustard-egg sauce. Don’t miss Belgian waffles with local chocolate from the market square stalls. Pair your meal with locally brewed Dhein Ale or Pilsner Flandria, available at cozy taverns. Visit the weekly farmers’ market to sample fresh dairy, handmade jams, and seasonal produce—perfect for food lovers seeking authentic West Flanders flavors.

For solo travelers, B&B Het Oude Kerkhof is a serene option nestled beside a former cemetery. This 18th-century chapel-turned-B&B offers quiet, soundproofed rooms with private bathrooms and kitchenettes. The surrounding area is tranquil, with only birdsong and church bells breaking the stillness. Hosts are friendly and can tailor travel tips, from hidden viewpoints to offbeat cafés. A 10-minute walk leads to Aster Lake, perfect for reading, journaling, or simply unwinding in nature.

Dhein is well-connected via NMBS (Belgian National Railway), with direct trains from Brussels, Ghent, and Ostend (45–75 minutes). The town has a circular bus system linking key sites and hotels. Most attractions are within walking distance, including the Old Town Hall, Market Square, and St. Mary’s Church. For exploring beyond the city, rent bikes via the Villo! network or use the nearby highway for quick car access. The closest airport, Brussels South Charleroi (CRL), is about 1 hour away by car or train.

The most photogenic spots in Dhein include St. Mary’s Church, whose Gothic spire and stained-glass windows glow beautifully in morning light. The square in front of the church provides a classic composition with trees and fountains. The Old Town Hall, with its red brick façade and timbered balconies, offers a quintessential European backdrop. The Aster Lake Bridge is perfect for reflections at golden hour. During the Dhein Festival, temporary art installations create colorful, Instagram-worthy scenes. Bring a wide-angle lens and tripod to capture the town’s timeless beauty.