Camper place ‘t Eiland, Sas van Gent.

Camper site 't Eiland in Sas van Gent presents itself as a modern, automated overnight accommodation specifically for campers. Situated at Oostkade 34, on a unique peninsula, this location offers a direct connection to the waterways that define the region. On one side lies a marina, and on the other, the busy Ghent-Terneuzen canal. This positioning is undoubtedly its strongest selling point and a constant source of entertainment for guests fascinated by shipping.

Concept and Facilities

't Eiland's approach is entirely geared towards self-sufficient travelers. Access and management are fully automated and available 24/7. Visitors can reserve a spot online in advance or check in on-site using a payment terminal. After payment, they receive a code that grants access to the site via a barrier. This system offers maximum flexibility regarding arrival time, but also means there is no personal contact with a manager, something some travelers may find a drawback. Security is guaranteed by CCTV and a locked entrance, which contributes to a sense of security during their stay.

The facilities are comprehensive and fully equipped for what one would expect from a modern campervan site. Each site has access to a power outlet. There's also a central service point for emptying chemical toilets (black water), disposing of wastewater (grey water), and replenishing fresh drinking water. Waste containers are also available. It's important to emphasize that this is a specialized form of alojamiento . There are no restroom facilities with showers or toilets; the site is exclusively suitable for campervans with their own onboard facilities. Therefore, it's not an alternative to a campsite, and certainly not comparable to the services offered by hotels or posadas .

The Pitches: Surface and View

The pitches themselves are level, making the use of levelers unnecessary in most cases. A point of contention among visitors is the surface, which consists of shell sand. Initially, some considered this a disadvantage; the sand could be perceived as unstable, causing potholes, and it was easily walked into the camper. However, recent experience suggests that the surface has settled over time and now forms a firmer and cleaner surface. Nevertheless, it remains a different type of surface than grass or asphalt, which is a matter of personal preference.

The Experience: Pros and Cons of this Hospedaje

A stay at Camperplaats 't Eiland is highly rated by most visitors, with an average score of 4.2 from 335 reviews. However, the pros and cons are clearly distinguishable.

Advantages

• The Location: The view of the ships passing by on the Ghent-Terneuzen canal is phenomenal and is unanimously cited as the biggest plus. It's a peaceful spot that still offers a dynamic spectacle.
• Automation: The ability to arrive and depart 24 hours a day and the easy online or local booking system are perceived as very practical.
• Complete Campervan Facilities: All essential campervan services are available and functional. From electricity to water management, everything is taken care of.
• Proximity to Shops: For daily shopping, supermarkets such as Lidl and Albert Heijn are a short distance from the camper site.

Disadvantages

• No Sanitary Facilities: The lack of a toilet or shower facility makes this site unsuitable for campers without their own facilities. It is not an albergue or hostal with shared facilities.
• Limited City Life: A recurring comment is that many restaurants and shops in Sas van Gent are closed, especially on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. This is something to keep in mind when planning a longer stay.
• Impersonal Nature: The fully automated system, while efficient, leads to a lack of personal contact.
• The Surface: While improved, shell sand may still be a less than ideal surface for some visitors compared to other materials.

In essence, Camperplaats 't Eiland isn't a multifaceted hostería or a luxury resort with various habitations or villas . It's a focused and well-equipped facility for a specific target group. It offers a safe, clean, and functional base from which to explore the unique surroundings. The evolution from a simple parking lot, as previous reviews indicate, to a fully-fledged service area demonstrates a clear investment in the needs of the modern campervan traveler. Those looking for accommodations similar to Apartamentos vacacionales or spacious cabañas won't find what they're looking for here. However, for the self-sufficient traveler who appreciates peace and quiet and stunning views, this is an excellent choice for one or more nights.