Camping de Kroon (Tower View)
BackCamping de Kroon, formerly known as Torenzicht, is an SVR farm campsite located in Oirschot, Brabant. This accommodation specifically caters to campers seeking peace, space, and a relaxed atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of a large-scale resort . The campsite's character is strongly influenced by the personal and relaxed approach of the owner, Kees, and the rural setting with free-roaming animals such as chickens and peacocks.
The charm of simplicity and hospitality
One of the most praised aspects of Camping de Kroon is the owner's hospitality and flexibility. Visitors appreciate the uncomplicated approach; if you're not there, a phone call is all it takes to find a pitch yourself. This accessibility creates a sense of freedom characteristic of small-scale camping. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the presence of farm animals, making it an authentic "camping on the farm" experience. For those looking for a simple hospedaje surrounded by nature, this seems like an excellent choice. The campsite is described as a peaceful and beautiful spot, ideal for cycling and hiking enthusiasts in the surrounding Brabant Kempen region. The price-quality ratio is generally considered very favorable, with concrete examples of reasonable rates for an overnight stay with a campervan.
Critical notes: the sanitary facilities
Opinions differ on Camping de Kroon regarding its sanitary facilities. This is a crucial point for potential visitors. The campsite has a heated sanitary building, which, according to the campsite's website, was renovated in 2015. However, capacity is limited: there are only two toilets and two showers available for the approximately 25 pitches. A significant detail mentioned by one guest is that the toilets are in the same room as the showers. This can be inconvenient; if both showers are occupied, there is no longer access to a toilet.
Furthermore, there are conflicting experiences regarding hygiene. While some guests describe the sanitary facilities as "fine" or "clean," another visitor reported that they were not cleaned during their stay and were dirty. This difference in experience may depend on the campsite's occupancy or the visitor's personal standards, but it is a significant point of concern. Furthermore, showers require an additional payment using 50-cent euro coins, which is good to know in advance. These limitations make this accommodation less suitable for those expecting the luxury and comfort of hotels or fully equipped holiday apartments .
What you need to know before you book
Camping de Kroon isn't your average hostel or a campsite with a wide range of facilities. It's a pure, simple farm campsite. Its strength lies in its tranquility and personal, relaxed atmosphere. The owner is praised for his friendliness, but one review also reveals that he's sometimes inconspicuous, which some guests may experience as a lack of personal contact.
Advantages:
- Very quiet and rural area, ideal for cyclists and walkers.
- Casual and flexible atmosphere thanks to the relaxed owner.
- Good value for money, an affordable alternative to an apartment or cabaña .
- The presence of free-range animals contributes to the authentic farm atmosphere.
- Affiliated with SVR, which guarantees a certain standard in camping on the farm.
Disadvantages:
- Very limited sanitary capacity (2 toilets/showers), which can lead to waiting times at a full campsite.
- Conflicting assessments about sanitary hygiene.
- Paid showers (requires coin).
- The washing up area is also the place to brush teeth, which is not appreciated by everyone.
- The owner is not always present, which can lead to an impersonal arrival for those who expect it.
In conclusion, Camping de Kroon is an excellent option for self-sufficient campers looking for peaceful accommodation and who appreciate the charm of the countryside. However, one should be aware of its simplicity and limitations, particularly regarding sanitary facilities. It's a perfect spot for those who don't seek luxury but value authenticity and tranquility, unlike the facilities one would find in a youth hostel or one of the many villas in the region.