History of De Snippe
Heritage with a soul: stay and connect in a place full of history
Welcome to De Snippe, a historic boutique estate in the heart of Damme — one of the best-preserved polder towns in Flanders.
The site features a stylish B&B, two charming holiday homes, and an authentic barn, surrounded by vast fields and peaceful dikes.
After a careful heritage restoration, De Snippe was brought back to life as an exclusive retreat for couples, families, groups, and corporate stays.
It’s a place where tranquility, nature, and history come together — perfect for holidays, company events, or a stylish bed and breakfast stay in Damme.
From medieval grounds to stylish accommodation
De Snippe dates back to the 14th century, when the estate was still a fiefdom of the Burg of Bruges.
The name refers to Michel Snippe, the first known owner, who sold the property in 1359 to Jacob van Roeselare.
Over time, the name gained a poetic meaning. A “snip” is a shy, elegant bird that feels at home in wetlands and reed fields — perfectly matching the natural, rural character of this place.
Two species of snipe are common in this region:
- The Watersnip, known for its zigzagging flight and long beak, thrives in moist grasslands and marshes.
- The Houtsnip, slightly larger and rarer, prefers wooded areas and symbolizes grace and discretion.
Their names live on in the holiday homes “Watersnip” and “Houtsnip” — each with its own character, both deeply rooted in tranquillity, nature, and refined simplicity.
A new chapter
In the 17th century, the estate became known as the Casteel van de Woude. Over the centuries, the site expanded, leaving silent witnesses like the classical manor house, the angled stable wing, and the monumental barn built in 1882.
By the late 19th century, the estate gained its recognizable entrance along the Dudzelesteenweg.
After a period of abandonment, De Snippe was carefully restored — preserving the soul of the place and transforming it into a boutique destination for today’s guests.
Authentic heritage in a rural setting
Staying at our boutique B&B offers more than just a place to sleep.
Guests are immersed in silence, simplicity, and the serenity of a heritage estate surrounded by open landscapes.
De Snippe isn’t a place to simply pass by — it’s a place to slow down, connect, and feel history in every detail.
