Camper place Hattem
BackCamperplaats Hattem, part of the IJsseldelta Marina, presents itself as a two-faced accommodation. It's a favorite spot for many campervan owners, primarily because of its exceptional location. Situated on the Geldersedijk, directly on the marina and the IJssel River, this campervan site offers a vibrant view and direct access to both the water and the historic Hanseatic city of Hattem. However, these positive aspects are often mentioned alongside considerable criticism of the amenities and value for money, necessitating a balanced view of this campervan accommodation .
The undisputed asset: the location
The most praised feature of Camperplaats Hattem is undoubtedly its location. Visitors are literally a stone's throw from Hattem's charming, historic center. Within a few minutes' walk, guests can find themselves among the city's many historic buildings, unique shops, and inviting terraces. This proximity makes it an ideal base for anyone who wants to experience the charm of a Hanseatic city without relying on transportation. It's a type of accommodation that combines the freedom of a campervan with the comforts of an urban environment, something you won't easily find in a remote resort or standard hotel .
The surrounding area is also a paradise for cyclists and hikers. The camper site is a starting point for various routes along the IJssel River, through the Veluwe forests, or to the nearby city of Zwolle. A ferry for cyclists and pedestrians provides a fast and scenic connection to Zwolle during the summer months, significantly expanding the range of visitors. For those seeking an active holiday, this location offers plenty of opportunities. The pitches themselves, reportedly 22 in total, are situated on the water and offer beautiful views of the harbor. Mostly paved, but with a grassy area for outdoor seating, they provide a functional base for a short stay.
A critical look at the facilities and costs
While the location receives widespread praise, Camperplaats Hattem's facilities and cost are a frequent point of discussion and dissatisfaction among visitors. A look at guest experiences reveals a consistent pattern of complaints that potential customers should seriously consider.
Pricing in relation to supply
A common complaint is that the camper site is on the expensive side for what it offers. Prices of around €19 per night, excluding €5 for electricity and a tourist tax of €2 per person per night, are considered steep by many. The expectation that such a price creates—namely, that of a complete and well-maintained service package—is not met, according to a significant number of guests. This leads to a feeling of poor value for money. They pay for the prime location, but the basic amenities seem to lag behind.
Sanitary facilities: the Achilles heel
The most prominent issue is the restroom facilities. Both campervan guests and boat owners in the marina have to use the same, very limited restroom facility. Reviews repeatedly mention only one women's restroom and one men's restroom for all guests. This minimal capacity is considered completely inadequate, especially during busier periods. Furthermore, there are complaints about hygiene, the lack of toilet paper and soap, and the fact that showers require a fee (€0.50 or €1 for a few minutes). The lack of dishwashing facilities is also considered a serious drawback. For a facility that claims to be a top location in the Netherlands, these are fundamental shortcomings.
Essential camper services under discussion
Reliable water and waste disposal facilities are essential for campervan owners. Here too, users report that Camperplaats Hattem falls short. Although there is a water tap for filling fresh water tanks, one of the most critical facilities is missing: a greywater disposal point. The official explanation for this is that the campervan site is located in a floodplain and is susceptible to flooding during high tide. Guests are referred to a campervan service station three kilometers away to empty their wastewater tanks, which is considered cumbersome and impractical. There are also reports of a closed water tap and problems emptying the chemical toilet. The Wi-Fi, although free, is often described as weak and unreliable. These shortcomings contradict the basic needs of the modern campervan traveler looking for functional accommodation .
Who is Camperplaats Hattem suitable for?
Based on the available information, Camperplaats Hattem is primarily an option for a specific target group: the self-sufficient camper who prioritizes location above all else. If you're fully equipped with your campervan, aren't dependent on external restroom facilities, and are willing to pay a premium for a prime location, then staying here for one or two nights could be an excellent choice. The ability to wake up at the harbor and be in the heart of Hattem within minutes is a unique experience.
However, for campervanners who value clean and spacious sanitary facilities, full on-site services, and a fair price-quality ratio, there may be better alternatives. Some former visitors even suggest choosing a campsite nearby and cycling to Hattem from there. This is telling advice that captures the essence of the dilemma. Unlike staying in a guesthouse or holiday apartment , where facilities are a given, the quality of a campervan stay depends heavily on the services offered at the site itself.
A location with a reservation
Camperplaats Hattem is a place of contrasts. It offers one of the best locations a camper could wish for: right on the water and next to a beautiful historic center. However, this prime location comes with a hefty price tag and a series of shortcomings highlighted by many visitors. The limited and sometimes substandard sanitary facilities and the lack of essential wastewater disposal points are serious drawbacks. The ultimate decision to stay here depends entirely on the traveler's personal priorities. Are you primarily looking for an unforgettable place and willing to accept the inconveniences, or is the comfort of a fully equipped motorhome , supported by adequate amenities, more important? Camperplaats Hattem forces you to make that choice.
