Borgmeren BV

Borgmeren BV, located on Hoofdweg in Scharmer, presents itself as a provider of accommodation in a water-rich area near the city of Groningen. However, those looking for a traditional holiday park or a tourist resort should adjust their expectations. The company's operations and the experiences of residents and locals paint a picture of a company that primarily focuses on a specific niche: renting temporary housing, primarily to companies for their employees. This distinction is crucial for potential customers to make a well-informed decision.

The Nature of the Hospedaje

Borgmeren's core business isn't offering short-term vacation rentals, but facilitating longer stays. Their website profiles them as one of the largest providers of temporary housing in the Northern Netherlands. They specifically target companies looking for suitable accommodations for their (temporary) employees. Their offerings include fully furnished cabañas (bungalows) and apartments, ranging from one-bedroom homes to three- or four-bedroom bungalows. This model offers flexible rental terms that can be tailored to the duration of projects, a significant advantage for the business market. Private individuals between moves or seeking temporary housing due to other circumstances could theoretically also find a home here, but the atmosphere and service are unmistakably geared towards corporate tenants.

The Plus Points of Borgmeren

Despite the specific focus, there are certainly positive aspects worth considering.

• Beautiful Location: A consistently positive point is the location. One reviewer describes it as a "beautiful place to live." Situated on the Scharmerplas lake, the area offers a natural and peaceful setting that is appreciated. The name "Borgmeren" itself refers to the water-rich surroundings.
• Fully Furnished Accommodation : The homes are fully furnished and equipped, including standard kitchen appliances such as a dishwasher, refrigerator, and microwave. This plug-and-play approach is ideal for those who need temporary accommodation quickly and without hassle. Rental prices are all-inclusive, meaning gas, water, electricity, TV, and internet are included, making budgeting easier.
• Friendly Landlords: A review specifically mentions the friendliness of the landlords, which indicates a potentially pleasant and personal interaction with the management.
• Facilities: The presence of a swimming pool, where swimming lessons are apparently also offered, is a definite plus. While it's unclear whether this is exclusively for residents, it adds value to the overall experience. Furthermore, the location has its own parking, and the main entrance is wheelchair accessible.

The Negatives and Points of Attention

However, potential tenants should also be aware of a number of significant disadvantages and criticisms that have emerged from various sources.

• Condition of the Cabañas : A significant and recurring point of criticism is the condition of the cottages. Reviews speak of "old and dilapidated" and "somewhat older cottages." This contrasts with the relatively high rental prices, which undermines the value for money. For example, a large bungalow with three bedrooms costs €1,850 per month for long-term stays, and an extra-large bungalow with four bedrooms costs €2,000 per month. For such prices, one would expect a modern and well-maintained home, which doesn't always seem to be the case here.
• Atmosphere and Fellow Residents: This is perhaps the most important consideration for someone seeking a peaceful vacation. The park is largely inhabited by migrant workers. A highly critical review notes that "the temporary residents of this park drive through the built-up area in their vans at over 100 km/h every day." This behavior, if representative, can significantly disrupt the peace and safety in and around the park and suggests an atmosphere far removed from an idyllic vacation retreat. It is not a traditional hostería or albergue where one meets like-minded travelers.
• Service and Staff: An older, but very negative review (from 7 years ago) describes the staff as "unmotivated" and unfriendly. While the situation may have improved, especially given the more recent positive comment about the landlords, it's a historical sore point that has affected the company's reputation.
• Historical Controversies: Another older, but angry, review criticizes the then-owner for excavating a sand martin dune, labeling it an "environmental offense." Although this is in the past, it could be a factor for environmentally conscious tenants in their decision.

Who is Borgmeren Suitable for?

It's clear that Borgmeren BV isn't a full-service holiday park and doesn't compete with traditional hotels , hostels , or providers of vacation apartments . Their focus is clearly on the corporate market for staff housing. For companies looking for flexible, all-inclusive housing solutions for their employees near Groningen, this can be an efficient option. The fully furnished villas and the "departamento" offerings ensure a quick start.

For the individual seeking temporary housing, for example, during renovations, it's a mixed bag. The beautiful location and the all-inclusive package are appealing. However, one must be aware that the atmosphere and condition of the accommodations may not meet the expectations of a quiet, comfortable temporary home. The costs are considerable, and one shares the property with a population that may have a different lifestyle and daily routine than a family or someone seeking peace and quiet. It's not a posada with a homely atmosphere, but rather a functional encampment for a specific target group. A thorough inspection and an open discussion with the management about the current residents is therefore essential before signing a contract.