Diksmuide, situated in the middle of Flanders Fields, is a destination filled with sheer wonder. The cloth industry and dairy production once made this town rich. Hence you can still discover surprisingly picturesque corners while walking through the old town. Many monuments, cemeteries and trenches remind us of the horror of the First World War 1914-1918. The endless views invite you to walk or take a boat trip on the Yser. You will pass through enchanting villages, experience the openness of the region and admire the protected nature areas. At a 5 minute walk from the Market Place you’ll find the Pax-tower, the Crypt and the Yser-tower (Ijsertoren). All together they form the European Peace domain. In this museum of 22 floors you get an idea how life was during the First World War. Smell the chloral and mustard gas, feel the fear of soldiers in the Trenches of Death. At a height of 84 meters you have a magnificent view over Diksmuide and the entire Westhoek region. 25,638 soldiers found their resting-place at the German Military Cemetery of Vladslo-Praetbos. The Mourning Parent is a moving sculpture by Käthe Kollwitz, an important German expressionistic artist. She created it out of sorrow and love for her 18 year old son Peter who was killed in the Great War. Diksmuide is the ideal accommodation place to discover the Battle Fields. You can reach Leper in 20 km, Brugge in 35 km. You can drive to Calais in 1 hour and 30 minutes, Zeebrugge in 1 hour. The seacoast in Newport is only 20 minutes away. We hope you will be interested in our town and us. If you are nearby don’t hesitate to come and have a look. You’re welcome! Enjoy your stay.
