Farmhouse Bed – De Appelsche

BoerenBed - De Appelsche, located in Fochteloo, Friesland, offers a specific form of alojamiento that lies somewhere between camping and a farm stay. The concept, better known as "glamping," focuses on a back-to-basics experience without sacrificing a certain level of comfort. This location is not a traditional hotel or resort , but a working farm where guests stay in tented cottages. These are designed to evoke an authentic rural atmosphere, complete with the sounds and daily routines of farm life. The experience is geared towards families and those who want to rediscover their connection with nature and the origins of our food.

The Accommodation: More than just a tent

The heart of the accommodation at De Appelsche is the tented cabins. These are more accurately described as spacious canvas cabañas than traditional tents. They are furnished with functionality and ambiance in mind, in keeping with the "BoerenBed" (Farmhouse Bed) concept. A central element in each tented cabin is the wood-burning stove, which not only serves as heating on colder days but also serves as the primary cooking facility. This means there is no electricity or modern kitchen appliances. Lighting is provided by oil lamps and candles, contributing to a rustic and intimate atmosphere.

The tent accommodations are functional, with comfortable beds. Each tent has its own toilet and, a significant plus according to guests, a private shower cabin with hot water. This offers a level of privacy and convenience not easily found at a standard campsite, positioning it as a unique form of hospedaje. The absence of Wi-Fi and television is a deliberate choice of the concept, intended to encourage guests to spend time together and enjoy the surroundings.

What Makes De Appelsche Attractive?

The positive guest experiences highlight some of the strong points of this location.

Authentic Farm Life

One of the biggest draws is the opportunity to experience farm life up close. Guests, especially children, have the chance to help feed the animals. Richard and Lycke's farm is home to a variety of animals, including cows, calves, chickens, sheep, goats, and pigs. Collecting fresh eggs for breakfast is a popular activity. This interactive approach distinguishes it from a passive stay in a hostal or departamento and offers an educational experience. Guests enjoy unobstructed views of the meadows, where they can regularly spot cows and even deer from their tents.

Facilities for Children

De Appelsche is exceptionally well-equipped for families with children. Reviews are full of praise for the extensive play facilities. There's a large playground with a trampoline, a go-kart track, a soccer field, a sandbox with a water pump, and a bouncy castle. These amenities ensure that children can enjoy hours of outdoor fun while parents relax. This makes it a more attractive alternative to standard apartamentos vacacionales, which often lack such specific, outdoor-focused amenities.

Culinary Experiences on the Farm

In addition to accommodation, the farm also offers a variety of culinary options that enhance the experience. The pizza nights, where guests can top their own pizza and have it baked in an authentic stone oven, are described as a great success. There's also a farm shop on site selling local and fresh produce, with a highlight being the delicious grilled chicken available on Saturdays. Guests can also pre-book meal packages, such as a "warmer package" with marshmallows and hot chocolate, or kits for making your own soup or pancakes. This convenience, combined with the focus on fresh produce, adds an extra layer of comfort and enjoyment to the stay.

Important Considerations for Potential Guests

While the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, there are some aspects of BoerenBed - De Appelsche that potential visitors should consider to determine whether this type of accommodation is right for them.

The 'Back to Basics' Philosophy

The most defining characteristic is also the one that's not suitable for everyone: the lack of modern conveniences. Cooking on a wood-burning stove requires more time and planning than using an electric stove. The absence of electricity means no refrigerator (there is a chest freezer), no microwave, and no outlets to charge devices. For those seeking the comfort and service of luxury villas or a fully equipped hostería , this rustic approach might be too much of an adjustment. It's an experience meant to unwind, which requires a conscious choice from the guest.

The Placement of the Tents

A recurring point in one of the detailed reviews is the relative proximity of the tented cabins. While the layout is cleverly designed to maximize privacy by staggering the tent openings, they are physically closer together than at some other BoerenBed locations. For guests seeking absolute seclusion and maximum space, this might be a minor drawback. It's not an isolated posada , but a communal setting on a farmstead.

Dependence on the Weather

As with any accommodation focused on outdoor living, weather plays a significant role. Guests report having an unforgettable time even in less favorable weather, thanks to the cozy wood-burning stove in the tent. However, much of the charm and activities, such as playing outside, caring for the animals, and relaxing by the outdoor stove, are best enjoyed in dry weather. A stay here can therefore be experienced differently depending on the weather conditions, something that's less of an issue when staying in a stone albergue or hotel.

BoerenBed - De Appelsche offers a distinctive and highly appreciated holiday experience, especially for families. It successfully combines the charm of farm life with the comfort of a well-equipped glamping tent. Its strengths include the authentic interaction with the farm and its animals, the excellent play facilities for children, and the charming, well-prepared culinary extras. However, potential guests should be aware of the conscious choice for a "back to basics" approach without electricity and the impact that weather can have on the experience. For those seeking a unique hospedaje that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life and values nature, togetherness, and simplicity, De Appelsche is an excellent choice.