Camping BuitenLand
BackCamping BuitenLand, located on the Stieltjeskanaal in Zandpol, presents itself distinctly different from your average campsite. It's a place with a distinctive character, founded by a group of friends, including media personality Floortje Dessing, with the vision of creating a creative haven. This ambition results in an experience that visitors rate very differently, depending on their expectations and what they're looking for in a hospedaje .
A festival feeling with a Randstad edge
One of BuitenLand's most prominent features is its atmosphere. Many guests, especially those who are positive, describe it as a wonderful, convivial place with an unmistakable "festival vibe." The campsite attracts a creative crowd, evident in the many vintage campers and the overall relaxed, artistic atmosphere. Activities such as live music, silent discos, yoga classes, and creative workshops contribute to this vibrant and dynamic environment. However, this distinctive atmosphere also has a downside that not every visitor appreciates. Several reviews point to a strong presence of a Randstad crowd, which some describe as a "havermelk elite goes camping" vibe. This "see-and-be-seen" culture can be off-putting for guests seeking the tranquility of Drenthe. It's not a traditional resort where one can relax anonymously; the social dynamic is an integral part of the experience.
Different Forms of Alojamiento
BuitenLand offers a wide range of overnight accommodations, from traditional camping pitches to unique, self-built accommodations . For campers with their own tent or campervan, there are fields where they can choose their own pitch, which adds to the feeling of freedom. Opinions on the size of these pitches are divided; some consider them spacious, while others find them cramped and crowded during peak season. A significant point of criticism is the price. One guest reported a rate of 54 euros per night for one person with a campervan, which was considered excessive for what is essentially a "regular" camping pitch, despite the good facilities.
In addition to camping, the campsite offers a range of unique rental accommodations. These aren't standard cabañas or villas , but unique creations by artists and architects, such as converted buses, domes, tiny houses, and even artworks you can sleep in. These forms of alojamiento are generally very well received. Guests who stayed in a "cabin" described it as complete, cozy, comfortable, and situated in a quiet part of the grounds. For those looking for a unique stay that offers more than a standard hotel or hostel , these creative accommodations are a definite plus. They can be seen as a kind of individual apartamentos vacacionales with an artistic touch.
Facilities: Between Top and Questionable
The quality of the facilities at Camping BuitenLand is a tale of contrasts. The restrooms are praised by several guests as "top-notch" and modern. The central Outdoor Bar is also praised for its inviting atmosphere. These areas form the social heart of the campsite and have clearly been carefully designed.
On the other hand, some facilities have drawn criticism. The swimming pool, while present, is often described as too cold and, according to many, too small for the number of guests during peak season. The natural playground, located next to the bar, is limited in size. A more serious concern is safety and hygiene here; one reviewer reported finding shards of glass in the sand, posing a risk to young children. Such details are unbecoming of the premium price charged for a stay. The halfpipe on the property, while a fun addition for young people, is also perceived by others as a source of noise, as is the fountain in the pool, which is said to be left running at night.
Target Audience and Practical Considerations
Visitor experiences clearly show that BuitenLand isn't the ideal holiday destination for everyone. It seems less suitable for families with very young children. The combination of electric scooters, dogs running loose, and the aforementioned safety hazards at the playground make it a less relaxing environment for parents of toddlers and preschoolers. Moreover, the organized activities fill up quickly, leaving little organized entertainment for the little ones.
The campsite seems best suited to couples, groups of friends, and families with children aged seven and up, who appreciate the lively, social, and festival-like atmosphere. There are also special facilities for solo travelers looking to connect.
The Price of Freedom and the Quest for Peace
A recurring theme in the criticism is the price-quality ratio. Both the cost of a pitch and prices in restaurants and cafes are perceived as high, comparable to those in the Randstad. This creates expectations that the campsite cannot always meet, especially when there is a nuisance.
Noise pollution is another significant problem. Although the rules stipulate that it must be quiet after 11:00 PM, according to several guests, this is not enforced. Noise from other guests, barking dogs, and the aforementioned noise sources mean a peaceful night's sleep is not guaranteed. This is a crucial point for anyone looking for a posada or hostería to unwind in nature. BuitenLand is essentially a lively and sometimes noisy albergue , and potential visitors should be aware of this.
In short, Camping BuitenLand is a place with two faces. It offers a unique, creative, and vibrant atmosphere that can be an unforgettable experience for the right visitor. The unique rental accommodations are a definite plus. At the same time, potential guests must consider a high price tag, a specific social culture, considerable noise pollution, and facilities that don't always meet the expectations set by the price. Choosing this part of Drenthe's recreational scene depends entirely on personal preference: are you looking for a vibrant, trendy haven or a quiet escape in nature?
