Camper place at the village
BackCamperplaats Aan Het Dorp, located at Herenstraat 98 in Werkhoven, presents itself as a specialized and recently renovated location exclusively for campers. This small-scale business, with 11 specially designed pitches, focuses on travelers with their own vehicle looking for a well-maintained base. This type of accommodation clearly distinguishes itself from traditional hotels or resorts ; no habitations , cabañas , or vacation apartments are offered. The focus is entirely on facilitating a comfortable stay for the modern camper, emphasizing functionality, cleanliness, and a strategic location for exploring the region.
Facilities and Layout of the Pitches
One of the most praised features of Camperplaats Aan Het Dorp is the quality of the facilities and the thoughtful layout of the site. The owners, who took over the site in April 2023 and completely renovated it in early 2024, have clearly invested in comfort and sustainability. Each pitch is paved, primarily with clean gravel, and a strip of artificial grass has been laid directly next to the camper door. This ensures that guests can enter their vehicle cleanly, regardless of the weather, a detail that many visitors appreciate. The pitches are described as spacious and offer views of an adjacent orchard, contributing to a rural feel.
The sanitary facilities are another strong point. The restrooms are modern, heated, and consistently described as very clean and tidy. Guests have access to separate male and female areas, each with a shower and toilet. There's also a covered dishwashing area and a cozy lounge area with brochures featuring cycling and hiking routes and other tourist information. For added convenience, there's a service station for emptying the cassette toilet and gray water, and refilling the water. A unique feature is the presence of a campervan wash station, a service not often found at such a hospedaje .
The Plus Points in Summary
- High-Quality Pitches: Spacious, paved pitches with a combination of gravel and artificial grass for extra comfort and cleanliness.
- Modern and Clean Sanitary Facilities: Well-maintained and heated sanitary facilities, including showers and toilets.
- Extensive Facilities: Including a service station, covered dishwashing area, bicycle storage and an informative lounge area.
- Unique Camper Wash: A special extra service for guests who want to clean their vehicle.
- Good Location for Cyclists: Its location in the Kromme Rijn region, near the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, makes it an ideal starting point for cycling trips to Utrecht and Wijk bij Duurstede, among others.
Critical Note: Points of Attention for Potential Visitors
Despite the many positive aspects, there are also some clear drawbacks and concerns that potential guests should consider. The most prominent and recurring criticism is the electricity payment system. Electricity is not included in the overnight price of approximately €19.50 (excluding tourist tax) and must be paid for separately. This is done via an outdated system that only uses €1 coins. There is no option to pay digitally or with a debit card, forcing guests to carry sufficient cash. Furthermore, the system is perceived as confusing. One reviewer described how a fellow camper accidentally paid double the amount because the system was unclear. This lack of a modern payment system is a significant drawback in this day and age.
Another potential drawback is its location directly on Herenstraat, a main village road. Several visitors report traffic noise, particularly from heavy agricultural machinery, which, especially during the harvest season, produces a rumbling sound. Those seeking the absolute tranquility of a secluded albergue or hostería may experience some inconvenience. There is also construction activity in the immediate vicinity, which can also cause some inconvenience.
Experiences with the owners vary. While some guests describe a friendly welcome, others report not seeing them at all. This leads to an impersonal experience, which is regretted by those who appreciate the charm of a small-scale posada , complete with personal contact and local tips. However, for travelers who value privacy and independence, this can be an advantage.
The Negative Points in a Row
- Outdated Payment System for Electricity: Only works with €1 coins, no digital payment options, and the system is potentially confusing.
- Noise pollution: The location on a busy village road can lead to noise pollution from traffic and agricultural machinery.
- Impersonal Experience: Some guests miss the personal contact with the managers, which can make the atmosphere feel less hospitable.
- Limited Facilities in the Village: Werkhoven itself is a quiet village with a limited range of catering establishments (a bakery, a snack bar and a restaurant with limited opening hours).
- Dog Policy: It's important for dog owners to know that there's limited space for dogs to run freely; they must be kept on a leash throughout the property and surrounding area.
Who is this Camper Site Suitable for?
Camperplaats Aan Het Dorp is an excellent choice for the self-sufficient campervan traveler looking for a very neat, well-organized, and modern site. It's not a hostel or a place with the luxury of villas , but a functional and comfortable hospedaje. The quality of the sanitary facilities and the well-thought-out layout of the pitches are definite pluses. The location is perfect as a base for cycling tours through the beautiful Kromme Rijn region and to cities like Utrecht. However, potential visitors should be aware of the drawbacks: the need to bring coins for electricity, potential road noise, and the generally impersonal, independent atmosphere. Those who can tolerate these aspects will find a solid and well-maintained place for one or more nights.