Delicious! Bed & Breakfast and Tea Garden

Honest! Bed & Breakfast and Tea Garden in De Kwakel combines two concepts: a place to stay overnight and a lively tea garden. Situated on the Jaagpad, right next to the Tolhuissluis lock that connects the Amstel River with the Kromme Mijdrecht, this location offers a unique experience that blends tranquility and activity. The provincial monument from the early 1800s that houses the B&B exudes an authentic atmosphere that is appreciated by many visitors. The name, a play on words like "delicious" and "honest," reflects the focus on pure, organic, and homemade products.

The Accommodation Options

When it comes to accommodations, Eerlijk! offers more than just a standard room. Guests can choose from various types of accommodations, making it suitable for both short and longer stays. The B&B features three unique, stylishly furnished rooms , each with its own character. Guests seeking an intimate atmosphere can choose the "Lock Room," which, as the name suggests, offers a direct view of the lively lock. For those seeking more privacy and a connection with nature, there's the "Garden Room." Highly praised by previous guests, this room features a private terrace with direct access to the garden. This type of accommodation approximates the experience of private cabanas or a rustic posada .

For families or guests wishing to stay longer, a fully equipped apartment is also available. This "Attic Room" apartment features a private loft with extra beds, making it an excellent option for those seeking more independent holiday apartments . The furnishings are consistently described as tasteful and comfortable, with attention to detail and excellent beds, guaranteeing a peaceful hospedaje . While it's not a large-scale resort or one of the many hotels , its strength lies in its small scale and personal approach, giving it the character of a charming hostería .

The Tea Garden: A Meeting Point for Passers-by

The tea garden is an integral part of Eerlijk!'s identity. Located along several cycling junction routes and hiking trails, it's a popular stop for day trippers. Visitors can enjoy lunch, brunch, and an extensive high tea, with an emphasis on vegetarian, organic, and homemade dishes. Reviews praise the elderflower teas, the delicious ice cream, and the fresh cakes. The garden itself offers various seating areas: under the trees with a view of the boats in the lock, in a romantic greenhouse, or on the grass. This dynamic atmosphere does mean that B&B guests should be mindful of the lively bustle of the tea garden during the day.

What Makes Honesty Attractive?

The positive aspects of this establishment are numerous and are consistently highlighted by visitors.

• The Location: The waterfront setting, next to a historic lock, is undoubtedly the biggest asset. It offers a picturesque Dutch landscape with a constant stream of boats, creating a vibrant view. The tranquility of the polder landscape at the rear provides a pleasant contrast.
• Hospitality: The owners are described as exceptionally warm, welcoming, and relaxed. They go above and beyond to make their guests feel comfortable, creating a very personal and homely atmosphere.
• Breakfast Quality: Many describe the breakfast as "sublime." It uses fresh, local produce, including delicious cheeses and homemade smoothies and jams. This level of quality is what distinguishes a stay at this type of guesthouse .
• Ambience and Furnishing: The rooms and common areas are tastefully and carefully furnished, combining authentic elements of the monumental building with modern comfort.

Important Considerations for Potential Guests

Despite the largely positive experiences, there are some practical points that future visitors should be aware of.

• Limited Parking: A significant drawback, mentioned by several visitors, is the lack of parking. The location on a towpath is not ideal for guests arriving by car. You have to park your car further away and cross the lock bridge on foot. This is an important logistical detail to consider in advance.
• No Dinner or Alcohol: The establishment serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch, but does not offer dinner. Alcoholic beverages such as beer or wine are also not served. Guests who wish to dine or have drinks in the evening will have to plan their stay elsewhere.
• Tea Garden Opening Hours: The tea garden is open seasonally and has specific closing dates, such as the first weekend of certain months. It's advisable to check the current opening hours, especially if a visit to the tea garden is an important part of your trip.
• Accessibility: Although the entrance is described as wheelchair accessible, the structure of a historic building, including stairs to rooms or bathrooms, can pose a challenge for those with limited mobility. It is advisable to inquire about this in advance.

In summary, Eerlijk! Bed & Breakfast en Theetuin offers a very charming and authentic accommodation option in the Groene Hart region. It is an ideal choice for travelers seeking peace, a personal touch, and idyllic surroundings, particularly cyclists, hikers, and couples. The quality of the accommodation and breakfast is high, and the hospitality is a much-praised plus. However, limited parking and the lack of a dinner option are important practical considerations that may affect its suitability for some travelers. It is not a traditional hotel , but rather a unique destination that appeals to a specific, tranquility-seeking demographic.