Camping BuitenRijk
BackCamping BuitenRijk, located at Zuiderdiep 510a in Valthermond, presents itself as a small-scale camping destination, taken over and designed by the new owners, Johan and Leonie Kreeft, with a clear vision. Their ambition is clear: to offer peace, space, and a deep connection with Drenthe's nature. For potential guests seeking accommodation away from the hustle and bustle, this campsite offers a unique experience that distinguishes itself from large-scale resort complexes or traditional hotels.
The Core Philosophy: Peace and Space as a Priority
The most defining characteristic of Camping BuitenRijk is the conscious choice for a largely car-free environment. This policy is a double-edged sword and must be weighed by guests against their preferences for a stay. On the one hand, it creates an extremely safe and peaceful environment. Parents with young children will find the absence of through traffic on the property a significant advantage, ensuring safety near the playgrounds and playing field. The result is a campsite that seems to be truly in harmony with nature, promoting the tranquility and relaxation often sought in a rural Posada or Hostería.
On the other hand, the car-free nature of the accommodation presents a logistical challenge. Cars are only permitted on arrival and departure for loading and unloading luggage. For the remainder of the stay, vehicles must remain in the central parking lot. The owners have anticipated this by providing handcarts. While this is an ingenious solution for transporting groceries and equipment to the pitch, it can be perceived as a disadvantage for guests with heavy luggage or those accustomed to the convenience of direct access to their car—something sometimes found in a more basic Albergue . The emphasis is clearly on navigating the terrain on foot or by bicycle, which reinforces the overall atmosphere of a rustic Hospedaje .
Various Options for Staying
Regarding the actual accommodations, Camping BuitenRijk is primarily geared towards campers. Various types of pitches are available. The "Basic" pitches offer a pure nature experience. The "Comfort" pitches expand on this with more space (100 to 120 m²) and direct connections to electricity (6 amps) and water. For those who don't want to forgo the convenience of private sanitary facilities, there's the "Comfort pitch with private sanitary facilities." This offers a level of luxury that closely resembles the amenities of a modern apartment or holiday home , while still retaining the camping feel. It's important to note that seasonal pitches are currently not available, which may be a disadvantage for regular guests seeking a year-round, fixed spot, similar to a long-term stay.
In addition to pitches, Camping BuitenRijk offers rental accommodations. The current option consists of charming chalets for four people, complete with a furnished kitchen, sitting area, and private bathroom. A particular plus is the availability of pet-friendly chalets, with Chalet D38 being mentioned, which offers flexibility for guests with four-legged friends. Although the terms "Cabañas " or "Villas" are not explicitly used in the description for the current rentals, the chalets offer a similar level of independence and comfort. The owners have expressed the ambition to add safari tents to the offering in the near future. This points to a future expansion of the rental options, which may offer more options similar to luxury Apartamentos vacacionales or sturdy huts .
Amenities that Enhance Convenience
Despite its focus on tranquility and simplicity, the campsite is equipped with various amenities that enhance your stay . Free Wi-Fi throughout the grounds is a modern necessity, a luxury not always expected at such a natural campsite. For relaxation, there's a swimming lake with a beach , including a fenced-off, shallow area specifically for younger guests, providing a safe place to cool off. The recreation room serves as a communal meeting place, equipped with a mini-library and a play corner, promoting a convivial atmosphere.
Furthermore, practical matters have been taken care of: a bread roll service ensures a great start to the day with fresh rolls, and a petting zoo and a large playground offer entertainment for children. For those staying longer, washing machines and dryers are available for a small fee. The fact that the owners, Johan and Leonie, are implementing these facilities step by step reflects their philosophy, but it's also a point of concern: the development is phased, meaning some future plans may not be immediately available. This requires guest understanding, as the property is still under development.
The Disadvantages and Limitations of the Concept
Besides the low-traffic nature and the lack of seasonal pitches, there are other factors a potential guest should consider. Opening hours are limited; the campsite is open from May 18th to November 1st. This means that staying outside of this season, or an early spring or late autumn holiday, is not possible at this location. This contrasts sharply with the year-round availability of rooms in a regular hotel .
Moreover, the nature of the Hospedaje here is very specific. Those looking for the wide range of entertainment options, organized activities, or the luxury of a full-fledged resort with swimming pools and restaurants won't find these amenities here. The focus is on self-sufficiency and experiencing nature. There are no indications of offering individual rooms in the sense of a traditional Hostería or Pension ; the emphasis is on pitches and the aforementioned chalets. Guests accustomed to the convenience of apartments with a reception and concierge service will appreciate the more intimate, owner-run atmosphere.
The Environment as an Extension of the Stay
While the focus should be strictly on the campsite itself, its central location in Drenthe is an unavoidable part of the value of the stay. The owners emphasize the proximity of nature, art, culture, and history in the province. This suggests that Camping BuitenRijk is ideal for guests who want to explore the surrounding area by bike or on foot, in keeping with the car-free nature of the campsite. For the active visitor who wants to experience Drenthe, the campsite serves as a peaceful base. There's even a tip for a day trip across the border, highlighting its geographical appeal for those who want to explore the region, whether by tent, caravan, or rented chalet .
In summary, Camping BuitenRijk offers a niche experience. It's a place for campers who prioritize privacy, peace and quiet, and safety for children over excessive amenities. The accommodation currently focuses on tents, caravans, and chalets, with the promise of future safari tents that could potentially expand the holiday home category. The absence of more urban forms of hospedaje, such as hostels or traditional hotels, is a conscious choice that defines the identity of this new venture. Those who embrace the logistics of the car-free policy and value a green, relaxing atmosphere will find dedicated managers in Johan and Leonie Kreeft, working to realize their vision for a unique holiday experience in Drenthe.
