B&B at Vincent’s
BackAn In-Depth Look at B&B at Vincent's in New Amsterdam
B&B bij Vincent, located on the Vaart Noordzijde in Nieuw-Amsterdam, presents itself as a unique accommodation option in Drenthe. What immediately distinguishes this bed and breakfast from the many other hotels and hostals in the region is its deep-rooted historical significance. The B&B is housed in Hendrik Scholte's former lodgings, the very building where the world-famous painter Vincent van Gogh stayed and worked for three months in 1883. This direct connection with an icon of art history forms the core of this hostería 's identity and is undoubtedly its greatest attraction for many visitors.
The Experience of a Historic Stay
Guests who book one of the rooms here literally sleep under the same roof as the master painter. The owners, Bea and Chris, are consistently praised in reviews for their warm, cordial, and personal welcome. Many visitors emphasize that the friendliness of the hosts is a determining factor in the positive atmosphere. This is an aspect not easily found in a large-scale resort or an impersonal apartment . The atmosphere is that of an intimate Posada , where guest care is paramount.
The B&B offers two themed rooms, "Vincent" and "Theo," located on the first floor. Despite the building's historic setting, the Habitaciones themselves are modern, fresh, and very neatly decorated. Guests describe the rooms as clean and comfortable, with a good bed and a luxurious feel. A frequently mentioned plus is the bathroom, which, though described by some as small, is equipped with a modern and highly appreciated rain shower. This detail demonstrates the attention paid to modern comforts within the historic walls. In addition to the private rooms, there is also a cozy living room where guests can relax, enhancing the feeling of a complete hospedaje .
Breakfast: A Good Start to the Day
Another consistently praised element is breakfast. Guests praise the extensive and well-prepared meal served. The menu includes fresh orange juice, coffee, a variety of luxury rolls, croissants, and even pancakes, complemented by a wide selection of toppings. The quality and variety of breakfast are considered a definite plus and contribute significantly to the overall positive rating of the stay.
A Crucial Limitation: Accessibility
Despite the overwhelmingly positive reviews, there is one significant drawback, and one that's decisive for a specific group of travelers: accessibility. As stated on the B&B's website, the rooms are located on the first floor and are only accessible via a steep staircase. This makes the accommodation unsuitable for guests with limited mobility, wheelchair use, or other mobility issues.
This limitation is painfully evident in the experience of a former guest, whose husband had Parkinson's disease. Upon arrival, he found it impossible to climb the steep stairs. As a result, the couple had to find alternative accommodation and received no refund for the night they had already paid for. This situation not only highlights the physical barrier but also raises questions about the flexibility of the cancellation policy in such force majeure situations. Therefore, this B&B is not a suitable choice for travelers with any physical disability. They would be better off looking for single-story Cabañas , specially adapted Villas , or a Departamento without stairs.
Considerations for Potential Guests
When considering a B&B stay with Vincent, potential clients should weigh the unique benefits against the significant drawbacks.
The Plus Points:
- Historic Location: The opportunity to spend the night in the house where Vincent van Gogh lived is a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else.
- Hospitality: The personal and warm welcome by the owners is highly appreciated.
- Comfort and Hygiene: The rooms and bathrooms are modern, comfortable and very clean.
- Excellent Breakfast: The extensive and high-quality breakfast is a recurring highlight in the reviews.
The Negatives:
- Accessibility: The steep stairs to the rooms make the B&B completely unsuitable for guests with mobility issues. This is the main limitation.
- Compact Bathroom: Although modern, some people perceive the bathroom as small.
- Potentially Inflexible Policies: The reported experience of forced on-site cancellations suggests a strict policy that could backfire.
In short, B&B bij Vincent offers an exceptional opportunity for lovers of art, history, and a personal touch. It's not a standard albergue or a large-scale complex of vacation rentals ; it's an intimate B&B with a story. For travelers with no physical limitations and seeking a memorable stay with excellent service and a fantastic breakfast, this is an absolute must. However, for those who find stairs a challenge, it's essential to skip this accommodation and find an alternative that does meet the necessary accessibility requirements.