Moments from the North Sea, hidden in a green pocket of urban Ostend, Les Cabanes d’Ostende is a quietly radical rethinking of the Belgian seaside break. The concept is simple: a series of timber cabins designed to blend into their natural surroundings, offering guests a slowed-down, design-forward alternative to coastal tourism.
Though the city centre and beach are both a short walk away, the atmosphere here is one of considered disconnection. Cars are left behind and sounds fade. Paths wind through greenery and trees to individual cabins, where wood-burning stoves, large picture windows, and outdoor hot tubs replace distraction with stillness. The architectural approach is low-tech and low-impact, built to adapt to the seasons, and provide guests with privacy and connection to the natural surroundings.
With sustainability at its core — Les Cabanes d’Ostende recently having earned the international Green Key label — every element of the project is built with longevity in mind. Think reclaimed materials, efficient energy use, and local sourcing; the on-site Honesty Shop stocked with regional goods being a shining example. Cabin design is tactile, the ‘couples cabins’ and larger ‘family cabins,’ are equipped with all facilities you’ll need for a short escape.
After a long day exploring the nearby beach and dunes by bike, or shopping in Ostend, guests can return and unwind in the small wellness area or sign-up to one of the few curated retreats focused on well-being and conscious living.
A secret garden in the middle of the city, Les Cabanes d’Ostende blends the charm of outdoor living with the comfort and convenience of boutique hospitality. A fine countryside getaway for those who can’t quite leave their city life behind.
Photography, Chess Bonte / © Op Wandel / © Lucid / courtesy Les Cabanes d’Ostende.
