Hamshorst Bed and Breakfast

Hamshorst Bed and Breakfast, located on Hamshorstweg in De Lutte, presents itself as a high-end accommodation, a fact confirmed by the highest possible classification of five tulips from the Dutch Bed & Breakfast Foundation. This B&B has built a considerable reputation, including winning the prestigious title of "Best Bed & Breakfast in the Netherlands" in 2012. Since 2022, the business has been run by new owners Monique and Ivo, who took over from the founders, Arie and Idelet. Their challenge is to maintain the exceptionally high standard set by their predecessors. Recent reviews suggest that the characteristic hospitality and quality have remained unchanged.

Diversity in Alojamiento

One of Hamshorst's most distinctive features is the variety of accommodation options it offers. The offerings go beyond standard hotels , offering a more personalized and unique experience. Guests can choose from several types of hospedaje , each with its own unique character.

Luxury Habitaciones in the Main Building

The main building, a striking wooden structure with a Scandinavian feel, houses three guest rooms accessible via a private entrance and a spacious 42 m² mezzanine. This mezzanine serves as a communal lounge for guests, complete with a sitting area, a well-stocked bookcase, a kitchenette, and a cozy wood-burning stove that provides a crackling fire in the colder months. The rooms themselves are spacious and furnished with attention to detail. One of the rooms features an en-suite bathroom with a jacuzzi, a luxury often mentioned in guest reviews and a definite plus for those seeking relaxation and comfort. Another room has a bathroom with a bathtub and a massage shower. This type of luxurious Alojamiento is rare in a B&B setting and positions Hamshorst as a serious competitor to boutique hotels.

Unique Cabañas: The Gypsy Wagon and Tree House

For guests seeking a more adventurous or unconventional stay, Hamshorst offers two unique options separate from the main building. These are the "Pipowagen" (a type of shepherd's hut) and a "Tree House." These Cabañas offer a completely different experience than the luxury rooms. They evoke a sense of romance and connection with nature. While they have a more rustic charm, it's important for potential guests to know that the amenities may be more basic than in the main building. These options are ideal for those seeking a unique overnight stay who value the luxury of a jacuzzi less than the experience of a unique albergue surrounded by nature. It's a clever way to appeal to a wider audience, from couples seeking a romantic getaway to families with adventurous children.

Service and Hospitality: The Core of the Experience

The common thread in almost all reviews, from both previous and new owners, is the exceptional hospitality. Guests describe the welcome as warm and personal, making them feel instantly at home. This is what distinguishes a small-scale Posada or Hostería from larger, more impersonal chains. Breakfast is consistently described as a highlight: luxurious, extensive, and delicious. A unique and appreciated detail is that guests are given the opportunity to create their own packed lunch from the abundant breakfast items for their day trip, which demonstrates a deep understanding of the guest's needs. Special mentions such as a "Scotch egg" demonstrate the extra effort and attention that goes into the meals.

Pros and Cons

When considering a stay at Hamshorst Bed and Breakfast, it is helpful to weigh the strengths and potential drawbacks.

The Benefits

• Exceptional Quality and Luxury: With a 5-tulip rating, rooms with jacuzzis, and a wood-fired Finnish outdoor sauna, Hamshorst offers amenities more likely to be found at a luxury resort or wellness center.
• Unique Accommodation Options: The combination of luxurious rooms and distinctive Cabañas makes the offering diverse and attractive to different types of travelers.
• Personalized Service: The praise for the hosts and hostesses and the excellent breakfast demonstrate that the personal touch is central here.
• Beautiful, Peaceful Location: Nestled in nature, the B&B offers a tranquil oasis, ideal for hikers and cyclists. The property is located directly on hiking trails such as the Marskramerpad.

Points of Attention for Potential Guests

• Change of ownership: While continuity of quality seems assured, the "Best B&B in the Netherlands" award was achieved under the previous owners. Guests booking specifically based on this previous title should be aware of the change in management.
• Location: The secluded, quiet location is a plus for many, but a drawback for others. Guests are largely dependent on a car to reach restaurants and other amenities in the area. Transfers from the nearest train station in Oldenzaal are available.
• Price point: The luxury and service offered come with an expected price tag. This isn't budget accommodation, but an investment in a high-quality experience. This isn't your typical Departamento or one of the many Apartamentos vacacionales ; it's a premium B&B.
• Shared Space: While the rooms offer complete privacy, the loft serves as a shared space for guests of the three rooms in the main building. For those seeking absolute seclusion, such as in private villas , this is something to keep in mind.

In conclusion, Hamshorst Bed and Breakfast is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and welcoming stay in a natural setting. The combination of high-quality rooms, unique outbuildings, and service that goes above and beyond the call of duty justifies its strong reputation. The new owners appear to be successfully continuing the tradition of excellence, ensuring that Hamshorst remains a reliable destination for a relaxing and well-cared-for stay in Twente.