Camping Outdoor Fun
BackCamping Buitenpret, located on the Witterhaar river in Assen, presents itself as a family-run farm campsite offering a combination of camping pitches and a bed and breakfast. Visitor reviews paint a detailed picture of a place that excels in personal service and a strategic location, but also has some considerations for potential guests. It's not a large-scale resort , but its small scale seems to be its strength.
The Undeniable Strength: Hospitality and Service
A consistent theme in guest feedback is the exceptional friendliness and helpfulness of the owners, the Snippe family. Visitors describe them as "super sweet, helpful, and hospitable." This personal approach goes beyond a friendly smile. A striking example is a guest who got his campervan stuck in the mud during a rainy Superbike weekend. Within five minutes, the owner was there with his tractor to pull the campervan out. This kind of proactive service is what sets a stay here apart from the anonymous experience of large hotels and is highly appreciated by guests.
This accessibility and willingness to go the extra mile create an atmosphere where guests feel welcome and cared for. The team is described as "exceptionally friendly people," which contributes to the overall positive and relaxed atmosphere on the property. This type of hospedaje is based on human contact and genuine care.
Accommodations: More than just camping
The primary focus is on the campsite, which offers spacious pitches for tents, caravans, and campers. The atmosphere is described as relaxed, thanks in part to the friendly regular campers who contribute to a sense of community. However, for those seeking a different type of accommodation , Camping Buitenpret also offers a Bed & Breakfast. The accommodations of this B&B are described as "neat" and offer a comfortable alternative for those without their own camping equipment. This makes the location versatile, functioning both as a campsite and a kind of rural hostería or posada . However, the offerings do not include luxury villas , cabañas , or vacation apartments ; the emphasis is on simplicity and functionality.
Location: A Strategic Base
Camping Buitenpret's location is one of its greatest assets. It's the ideal base for motorsport enthusiasts. The campsite is located a short distance from the TT Circuit Assen, making it an extremely popular spot during events like the TT, the World Superbike Championship, and the Ducati Club Race. Guests emphasize that it's "far enough from the hustle and bustle, yet close to all the action." This means you can return to an oasis of peace after a day of noise and action. Its popularity is evident: during the TT, the campsite is often fully booked well in advance.
But the location isn't just appealing to racing fans. Nature lovers and active vacationers will also find plenty to enjoy. The campsite is located near the Baggelhuizen recreation area and other nature reserves such as the Fochteloërveen, where beautiful hiking and cycling routes can be found. Furthermore, the center of Assen, with its shops and amenities, is within cycling distance, making it a complete destination for all types of travelers. It also serves as a practical albergue for those exploring the Drenthe region.
Facilities and Points of Interest: The Reality of a Farm Campsite
When staying at a campsite, the facilities, especially the restrooms, are crucial. Camping Buitenpret is praised for its cleanliness; one guest even called it "extremely clean." This is a crucial plus. However, there are some practical details that future visitors should keep in mind.
- Shower lights: A recurring point of criticism is the timer for the shower lights. It's supposedly set too short, causing the light to sometimes go out during showering. A practical tip from an experienced guest is to bring a flashlight just in case.
- Choosing a Campsite: Although the campsite is spacious, not every spot is identical. One guest specifically warned about the spots under the overhanging oak trees. These trees can leave brown, difficult-to-remove stains on vehicles. Starling droppings also proved to be a problem in that specific spot. Therefore, it's advisable to inquire about the best spot when booking or upon arrival, depending on your preferences.
- Weather conditions: As the experience with the stuck camper demonstrates, the terrain can become muddy during heavy rainfall. This is an inherent characteristic of many campsites in natural settings. While the owner's helpfulness largely compensates for this drawback, it's something to be aware of when planning a visit during wetter periods.
It's important to emphasize that these points are mentioned by guests as tips and minor inconveniences, not as reasons to avoid the campsite. The overall rating remains overwhelmingly positive, with an excellent price-quality ratio that visitors rate a solid 10.
Who is Camping Buitenpret suitable for?
Camping Buitenpret is an excellent choice for travelers who value personal service, a peaceful and friendly atmosphere, and a clean environment. It's the perfect spot for motorsport enthusiasts seeking a comfortable and peaceful base near the circuit. The campsite also offers an ideal location for cyclists, hikers, and those seeking peace and quiet to explore Drenthe. The combination of camping pitches and B&B rooms makes it accessible to a wide audience.
Anyone looking for the luxury and anonymity of large hostales or a fully equipped departamento isn't in the right place. Buitenpret's charm lies in its simplicity, the authenticity of a farm campsite, and the genuine hospitality of the Snippe family. For most visitors, the minor, practical drawbacks are outweighed by the overwhelmingly positive experience, making this place a true must-see in the Assen region.