When looking for an alternative form of accommodation , away from the standardized layout of large hotels or the sprawling nature of a resort , you'll quickly find yourself drawn to small-scale initiatives like Camping Kalmpjes. Located on the Stieltjeskanaal at number 34 in Stieltjeskanaal, in the province of Drenthe, this location presents itself as an exceptionally friendly and personal place to stay. Its high rating, with an average score of 4.7, indicates that visitors highly appreciate the unique atmosphere and the service provided, which is rare for such a simple accommodation setting.

The core of the positive experience at Kalmpjes lies undeniably in the hospitality of the hosts. Several guests emphasize the warm welcome, often described as being handed a cup of coffee, which immediately creates a sense of welcome rarely experienced at an anonymous room rental or a larger hostería . This personal approach is a key selling point for travelers who prefer an intimate atmosphere over the amenities one would expect from an apartment complex or a larger albergue .

Another consistently strong point is the exceptional quality of the optional meals. The selection of freshly prepared dishes, such as a schnitzel with fresh vegetables and delicious fries, served on a platter, elevates the camping dining experience far beyond the usual level of a simple posada or a standard camping pitch. The convenience of this meal service, with dishes delivered directly to your tent or caravan, is a huge luxury for guests who don't feel like cooking after a long hike or bike ride. Even vegetarian options are available, demonstrating the kitchen's flexible approach.

Regarding basic amenities, Kalmpjes scores highly on hygiene. The sanitary facilities are thoroughly cleaned and replenished several times a day, a crucial aspect of any accommodation. Although showers require a small fee—about fifty cents for four to five minutes of hot water—this is often considered a reasonable price for the quality of service and the constant cleaning. Unlike the paid showers, essentials such as flushing the cassette toilet, water, and electricity (16A) are available free of charge to guests, providing a good balance in the price of a stay.

For those traveling without their own camping equipment, or who prefer the luxury of a permanent stay without the hassle of setting up and taking down, Kalmpjes offers an attractive rental option. The available Bell Tents and the more spacious Glamping Tent can be considered the camping equivalent of a cabin or a rustic room . These rental accommodations are comfortably furnished, including beds with duvets for adults, a small stove for ambiance, and even a small refrigerator. All this, along with an outdoor area with kitchen facilities, positions this rental option as a step up from a basic albergue, offering a unique, atmospheric waterfront experience.

The location itself is strategically chosen for those seeking peace and quiet and active recreation. Situated directly on the Stieltjes Canal, it offers the opportunity to cast a fishing rod from your awning, swim, or simply enjoy the boats passing by. The campsite is particularly popular with hikers of the famous Pieterpad, given its relatively short distance to the route. Moreover, the location serves as an excellent base for exploring the Drenthe region, with attractions such as the Hunebedden (dolmens) and Wildlands in Emmen, and even a day trip to Germany is within easy reach. This makes it a multifunctional location for a hospedaje , similar to the central location sometimes found in a well-positioned hostel .

However, an honest assessment of this accommodation also requires a critical look at the drawbacks experienced by some guests. The idyllic image of camping among fruit trees has a downside, especially during the cherry-ripening season. The presence of tall cherry trees, while atmospheric, results in a lack of sun on the pitches, which can be a disappointment for some who are looking for a sunny room or spot. Worse still, the ripe cherries attract birds, resulting in a field littered with crushed cherries and bird droppings, an inevitable inconvenience to the natural environment.

Another significant point of concern concerns capacity and crowding during peak periods, such as Ascension Day. An unexpected increase in the number of pitches (from ten to fourteen) has been reported, resulting in significantly reduced comfort due to the close proximity of caravans and awnings. What one expects as a spacious place to stay then becomes cramped, temporarily destroying the charm of the small-scale campsite . This overcrowding also puts increased pressure on the limited sanitary facilities, such as the three showers and the single dishwashing station, increasing wait times and making the need to pay for showers more tangible.

There's also a practical point regarding payments. While tent or camping pitch rentals can be done digitally, almost all extra services—meals, drinks, ice cream, and even extras like laundry—are only accepted in cash. This is an important detail for travelers accustomed to the convenience of card payments at modern resorts or apartment complexes. It requires careful planning to have enough cash for the entire stay.

Finally, it's good to know that the owners, who have been active since 2018, are continuously working on improvements, which indicates a positive development of the accommodation. The promise of a new, spacious hiker's tent for 2026 and the recent leveling and reseeding of the fields demonstrate that they are actively working to resolve the issues with the subsoil and capacity. For potential guests who prefer a personal, rustic atmosphere by the water and who can accept the drawbacks of seasonal nature and potential crowds, Kalmpjes offers a memorable and highly rated accommodation that is far removed from the formulaic experiences of a hostel or villa rental. It is the ideal place for those seeking true contact with Drenthe's nature, with the surprising luxury of a well-prepared meal within easy reach.