Vleugelbunker - Monument
Hidden in the dune landscape of the Zeepeduinen lies a concrete colossus from the Second World War: the Vleugelbunker. Locally also known as the Whale Bunker, due to the shard wall that resembles the back of a whale.
What makes the Vleugelbunker so special?
- Stunning views: A steel staircase leads to the roof of the Vleugelbunker, where a viewing platform offers panoramic views over the Zeepeduinen and the surrounding nature reserve.
- Large command bunker: The largest bunker on Schouwen-Duiveland, type 117a, with 15 separate rooms including a radio room, officer quarters, storage rooms, a machine gun post, and a rooftop observation dome.
- German command HQ: This bunker served as the main command post for all German defences on Schouwen-Duiveland during the Second World War.
- Part of the Atlantic Wall: The Vleugelbunker was part of the infamous Atlantic Wall – the 2,500 km long line of German fortifications along the Western European coast. In Burgh-Haamstede, the bunkers formed the Stützpunktgruppe Schouwen, with dozens of structures in the Zeepeduinen and Slotbos.
- Historic heritage: Most bunkers are standard German wartime designs – hospital bunkers, barracks, storage bunkers.
- Nature conservation: Many small bunkers now host hibernating bats, including the rare fringed myotis and Bechstein's bat.
Practical information
- Getting there: Park your car at the intersection of Moolweg, Vertonsweg and Nieuwe Weg. From there, it’s about 200 metres on foot or by bike to the steel stairs leading to the bunker and viewing platform.
- Opening hours:
- All year round: The bunker can be viewed from the outside and the grounds are freely accessible.
- July & August: Open every Saturday from 13:00 to 17:00 with guided tours.
- Open Monument Day: Usually open during Open Monumentendag with special activities.
- More info: Check the Natuurmonumenten website for up-to-date opening times and tours.
Dive into the Second World War history and experience the unique mix of nature and heritage at the Vleugelbunker in Burgh-Haamstede!
Furthermore Vleugelbunker is near the following sights: Pancake Mill De Graanhalm (±300 m), Viewing Platform Zeepeduinen (±350 m), Burghse School (±500 m), From Haamstede to Burgh: Guided Walking Tour (±650 m) & Pony Adventures Haamstede (±700 m).
For information
Moolweg 4, Burgh-Haamstede
web. Website
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