The region southeast of the infamous Ypres Salient, the Ypres Salient of World War I, remained in German hands from the First Battle of Ypres in 1914. After the Second Battle of Ypres, in 1915, the Germans proceeded to build fortified lines parallel behind the front in the Westhoek and northern France. Countless rows of barbed wire, machine gun nests and bunkers followed the heights and connected the most strategic landscape features. Together with the destroyed landscape, they played an important role further north, between Houthulst and Geluveld, in the course of the Third Battle of Ypres in 1917.
Along this cycle route, you will discover more about this German story. The route passes through a lesser-known but no less important war landscape. The many traces of the German presence that can still be found everywhere today are not just cycled past. In a pleasant way, you can discover the rich war heritage right across the border with France. Both the logistic story behind the construction of the trenches and the daily life of the German soldiers are discussed.
Practical info
- Can be guided
- maximum 50 people/guide
- Distance: 37 km
- Duration: 180 minutes
- Map: This route can be purchased from the Tourist Office for €3.00.
