B&B In The Church
BackB&B In De Kerk, located in the tranquil village of Goutum near Leeuwarden, offers accommodations that immediately catch the eye. The name and exterior, complete with a turret, suggest a stay in a historic, sacred building. The reality, however, is just as unique, albeit more modern: the building is an architect-designed complex built in 2011 that resembles a church, but actually houses three separate residences. The bed and breakfast is housed in one of these residences, offering guests a unique experience that balances historic charm and contemporary comfort.
The concept: modern comfort in a church jacket
The idea of sleeping in a church is appealing, but B&B In De Kerk puts its own spin on it. Instead of a renovated old building, guests enter a relatively new one. This has the significant advantage that the facilities are modern and meet current standards, something that isn't always the case with authentic old hotels or traditional inns . The B&B is located entirely on the ground floor, making it an excellent option for guests with limited mobility. Access is easy, and the private entrance provides a sense of privacy, separate from the owners' private quarters. This distinguishes it from a typical guesthouse , where spaces are often shared.
The furnishings of the rooms
The B&B has one guest room, which enhances its exclusivity and personal attention. Guests describe the rooms as neat, clean, and sleek. The decor is modern, with a comfortable box-spring bed that several guests described as "wonderful" and "very comfortable." Each room has a private, directly accessible bathroom. This en-suite bathroom is also modern and sleek, and features a spacious walk-in shower with a rain showerhead, adding to the luxurious feel. Amenities such as a television, free Wi-Fi, a refrigerator, and coffee and tea making facilities are standard.
A point of attention: the space
A recurring point in guest feedback is the size of the room. At 18m², the space is functional, but compact. Some guests find this "small" and indicate that it requires a bit of trial and error to fit luggage. This is an important consideration for travelers planning extended stays or traveling with a lot of belongings. For short stays of one or a few nights, as many guests do, this is generally not considered a major problem. Another comment concerned the positioning of the television, which, according to one guest, is only comfortable to watch from the bed. While this is a minor detail, it can affect the experience for some. This type of hospedaje clearly focuses more on comfort and ambiance than the spacious ballrooms you would find in a large resort .
Service and hospitality
The welcome at B&B In De Kerk is consistently described as friendly and pleasant. The personal approach, made possible by the small scale, is appreciated. One of the most praised aspects is the breakfast. Guests call it "fantastic" and "excellently prepared." Served with fresh ingredients, breakfast provides an excellent start to the day. In good weather, there's even the option of having breakfast outside in the morning sun, enjoying the tranquility that Goutum has to offer. This service elevates the experience above that of a standard apartment or holiday apartment, where guests often have to prepare their own breakfast.
Pros and cons at a glance
To make a well-considered choice, it is useful to compare the strengths and weaknesses.
Positive aspects
- Unique location: Sleeping in a building with the appearance of a church is a special experience.
- Modern facilities: The B&B is clean, modern and equipped with a luxurious bathroom and comfortable bed.
- Excellent breakfast: The breakfast is highly rated by guests.
- Friendly service: The personal and warm welcome contributes to a pleasant stay.
- Easy accessibility: Located in the quiet town of Goutum, but the center of Leeuwarden is just a ten-minute drive away. Free parking is also available.
- Accessibility: Because everything is on one level, the B&B is also suitable for people with limited mobility.
Possible disadvantages
- Compact room: The limited space may be a disadvantage for some guests, especially for longer stays.
- Price perception: One guest found the price (at the time €80) a bit high considering the size of the room and the narrow bed. Current prices for 2026 are around €95 for two people including breakfast, which might be a consideration.
- Limited capacity: With only one room, availability is limited, making booking well in advance essential. This is not a large-scale alojamiento like a hotel or albergue .
Who is B&B In De Kerk ideal for?
B&B In De Kerk is an excellent choice for travelers seeking unique and comfortable short-term accommodations . It's particularly suitable for couples or solo travelers who value a peaceful setting, a clean and modern interior, personalized service, and a high-quality breakfast. Its proximity to Leeuwarden makes it a perfect base for exploring the city, away from the hustle and bustle of the city itself. Those looking for spacious villas or a self-contained apartment with plenty of room to move around might not find the perfect fit here. But for those who appreciate the charm of a small, unique B&B with the luxury of modern amenities, 'In De Kerk' offers a memorable and highly enjoyable experience.