Beau glamping
BackDe Beau glamping in Elspeet presents itself as a unique Alojamiento in the Veluwe region, a concept that combines the charm of camping with the comfort one would expect from a luxury hostería or even a small-scale resort. Located at Apeldoornseweg 185, this location benefits from its proximity to the Kroondomein Het Loo estate, which immediately appeals to nature lovers seeking a unique hospedaje. The facility, part of Landgoed Mennorode—a property that itself offers hotels and other habitats —offers an alternative to traditional cabañas , villas, or apartamentos vacacionales .
The concept revolves around "glamorous camping," meaning that guests experience the sounds of nature, such as birdsong, without sacrificing essential comforts. The high overall rating of 4.5 stars suggests that the majority of guests have had a very positive experience with this type of hospedaje . The accommodations are small-scale, with seven units in total: five Woodlodges and two unique Panorama Domes. These Domes are specifically mentioned as a national first, allowing guests to enjoy phenomenal views year-round, provided seasonal regulations permit.
The Plus Points: Comfort and Atmosphere in Nature
What immediately stands out in visitors' experiences is the atmosphere and the attention to detail in the furnishings. The Habitaciones—or rather, the tents—are tastefully decorated. The provision of made-up box-spring beds upon arrival is greatly appreciated, which makes a big difference compared to pitching your own tent and sleeping on air mattresses, a typical Albergue scenario. This emphasizes the luxury one can expect from this type of Alojamiento.
One of the most praised aspects is the catering. Guests describe the breakfast as "luxurious and extensive," and the option of receiving a well-stocked picnic basket, delivered to your tent before 9:00 AM, is a highlight. This level of service, where guests enjoy a full breakfast on their own private terrace, is reminiscent of the service one would expect at a resort or a well-maintained posada. Furthermore, the option to order lunch and dinner through the nearby Hotel Mennorode is mentioned, which combines the independence of the glamping experience with the amenities of a larger establishment.
The tents' amenities are well-thought-out: Nespresso coffee makers, tableware, a small refrigerator, and even an electric heater for colder nights. This last feature was crucial for guests staying during colder periods, as the heaters and electric fireplace provided cozy warmth. The fact that there is both an indoor and outdoor seating area, along with a private terrace, enhances the feeling of a private, secluded hospedaje.
There's a clear contrast in terms of sanitary facilities. There's a new sanitary building described as "really great," complete with good washing facilities, an ironing board, and a separate area for dishwashing. This new block stands in stark contrast to the older shower and dishwashing facilities, which, while outdated, were positively surprised by some guests due to the warm rooms and decent water pressure, which are sometimes lacking in more basic hostels .
The Pitfalls: Inconsistency and Maintenance
While reviews are mostly positive, some guest reports point to significant inconsistencies that may detract from the overall experience, especially considering the higher price point one can expect with glamping compared to a standard Albergue .
A recurring point of criticism concerns the initial condition of the accommodations. There are reports of inadequate cleaning upon arrival, including dust on the floor and bird droppings on the outside of the tents. This indicates a lack of consistent quality control before new guests arrive, something not typically associated with well-managed villas or resorts .
More serious complaints concerned the sleeping facilities. While the box springs themselves are a plus, the bases were described as dirty, worn, and possibly "discarded" units from the nearby hotel . Pillows were considered "worthless," and there was a damp feeling in the beds, which negatively impacted sleep.
The tent equipment also sometimes left much to be desired. The lack of basic items like tea mugs or a bottle opener was noted, as well as a shortage of coffee pods (only three per stay) and, in one case, even expired juices at breakfast. The lack of an information folder in the tent makes it difficult for new guests to quickly find essential information.
A practical, yet disruptive, technical detail was the way the power cord entered the tent, namely through the outer fabric on the side. This created an opening through which pests, such as earwigs, could enter the Habitaciones. This is a clear point of attention for the maintenance and safety of the tent structure, which must guarantee a safe and secure Hospedaje.
Furthermore, the furniture layout in the Globe tents was suboptimal; the chairs offered an obstructed view of the surroundings due to an exposed beam, so guests preferred to sit outside on the mats. This points to a lack of ergonomics and optimization of the living space within these unique structures.
The Environment and the Future of Your Stay
The location in the Veluwe region is an undeniable advantage. For guests choosing this Alojamiento, the proximity to hiking and cycling routes is the primary motivation. It's an ideal base for experiencing nature, with sightings of deer and wild boar completing the experience. This aspect elevates the experience above that of an urban Departamento or a typical Posada .
Beau glamping currently operates from March to October, although the 24-hour opening hours in the basic information suggest continuous availability, highlighting the flexibility of this hospedaje. However, it's important for potential visitors to check the specific seasonal regulations, such as a possible minimum stay of one week during the summer holidays, via the website or by contacting Mennorode.
In summary, Beau Glamping offers a hospedaje that balances between a traditional campsite and a luxury hotel. It's an excellent option for couples or families who want to combine the luxury of a comfortable bed and a well-prepared meal with the tranquility of nature, far from the hustle and bustle of a resort or a crowded hostal . Its high rating is well-deserved due to the unique tents and the excellent service, such as breakfast. However, potential guests should be aware of the reported operational inconsistencies—particularly regarding cleaning and furniture maintenance—that sometimes interrupt the luxurious experience. It's a stay that recreates the "ultimate camping experience," but where the quality of execution sometimes needs to catch up to the luxury promised before it can compete with the best villas or vacation apartments in the region. The administrative side, with reservations handled through the larger complex, means that backup facilities are available should guests, for example, prefer a more traditional hostería room instead of a tent. For those looking for an adventurous yet comfortable night under the canopy, this location is a serious consideration within the spectrum of unique Alojamiento options in Gelderland.