Nieuwe Sluis lighthouse

The Nieuwe Sluis lighthouse in Breskens is a striking maritime landmark and a must-see for visitors exploring the Zeeland coast. Built between 1866 and 1867 by Dutch architect Quirinus Harder, it is the oldest surviving cast-iron lighthouse in the Netherlands. Its distinctive black-and-white, eight-sided tower rises 28.4 meters above the dunes, serving as a beacon for ships navigating the entrance to the Western Scheldt and the busy shipping lanes between the North Sea and Antwerp.

After being decommissioned in 2011 and facing the threat of decay, the lighthouse was lovingly restored and reopened to the public as a national monument in 2015. Today, visitors can climb its five storeys—about 90 steps—to enjoy panoramic views of the Western Scheldt, the Zeeland coastline, and, on clear days, the distant Flemish shore. The experience is especially rewarding during the tourist season, when the tower is open for guided visits.

Admission is €2.00 for adults and €1.00 for children aged 5–12, who must be accompanied by an adult. Due to the steep stairs and limited space, the lighthouse is not suitable for children under 5, and a maximum of 15 people can be inside at one time. The surrounding area offers scenic walking and cycling routes through the dunes, and the nearby town of Breskens is perfect for a post-visit meal or a stroll along the beach. The Nieuwe Sluis lighthouse is a testament to Zeeland’s maritime heritage and a highlight of any coastal adventure.