House Leeghwater
BackSituated in the tranquility and space of the Beemsterpolder UNESCO World Heritage Site, Huize Leeghwater offers a unique type of accommodation geared towards guests seeking tranquility, comfort, and a personal touch. This establishment is no standard hotel ; it consists of four themed double studios, each designed with sustainability and well-being in mind. The philosophy of the owners, Nathalie and Gertjan, is to create a self-sufficient oasis where guests can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This is reflected in everything from the organic meals prepared with ingredients from their own garden to the Body & Mind activities offered, such as yoga and qigong.
The Studios: More than just rooms
A stay at Huize Leeghwater doesn't mean you have to settle for a simple room. The four studios are decorated according to the themes of Earth, Water, Fire, and Air, creating a unique atmosphere. These spacious apartments , approximately 30 m², are equipped with every modern convenience. Guests unanimously praise the quality of the box-spring beds, which guarantee an excellent night's sleep. Each studio has its own modern bathroom with a spacious walk-in shower and organic toiletries. The kitchenette, equipped with a refrigerator, a two-burner induction cooktop, and an oven, offers guests the freedom to prepare simple meals. This makes it an ideal hospedaje for those who don't want to eat out every night. Each studio also has a private terrace overlooking the expansive fields, where sheep graze and the beautiful sunrise is considered a definite highlight by many visitors.
Positive Aspects of a Stay
The overwhelming consensus among guests is exceptionally positive, resulting in a near-perfect review score across various platforms. What makes this place so special?
- Exceptional Hospitality: The most frequently mentioned positive aspect is the warm and personal welcome from the owners. Guests immediately feel welcome and valued. The hosts are described as genuine, attentive, and willing to accommodate their guests' needs. This level of service exceeds what one typically finds in larger hotels or anonymous resorts .
- Peace and Nature: The location in the heart of the Beemsterpolder is priceless for those seeking tranquility. The views from the rooms of the meadows, the tranquility, and the presence of animals like sheep, geese, and pheasants create an immediate holiday feeling. It's the perfect base for hiking and cycling through the iconic Dutch landscape.
- Quality of Facilities: The studios are described as very clean, spacious, modern, and fully equipped. From the comfortable beds and the excellent shower to the well-equipped kitchenette, every detail has been carefully considered. A unique bonus is the private sauna, which can be booked in a garden house, offering beautiful views over the fields and an ideal way to relax after an active day.
- Breakfast: The optional breakfast is often praised. With fresh eggs, organic bread, fruit, apple juice, and homemade specialties like jam and honey, it offers a delicious and authentic start to the day.
Potential Disadvantages and Considerations
While experiences are overwhelmingly positive, no accommodation is perfect for everyone. An objective look reveals some aspects that could be a drawback for potential guests.
- Transportation Dependency: The idyllic, rural location also presents the biggest logistical challenge. Reaching Huize Leeghwater without a car is difficult. Public transportation is limited, making spontaneous excursions to surrounding towns difficult. This is a significant difference compared to a city hostel or albergue .
- Limited cooking options: While the kitchenette is appreciated, it's designed for preparing simple meals. For guests who want to cook extensively during their stay in a holiday apartment , the two-burner cooktop and compact layout may be limiting. There is no full-service restaurant on site, unlike in an inn or guesthouse .
- Price Level and Extra Costs: Quality and exclusivity come at a price. Some guests note that the accommodations are on the pricey side, especially when considering breakfast (€14 per person), the sauna (€35 for 1.5 hours), cleaning (€25 per stay), and tourist tax (€2.85 per person per night). This should be factored into your budget.
- Ventilation in some rooms: One review mentions that one of the studios doesn't have opening windows, forcing guests to rely on opening the patio door for fresh air. This can be uncomfortable at night. The lack of air conditioning is also mentioned, which can be a concern during hot summer days.
- Adults Only: This property only accepts adults and does not allow pets. This makes it an unsuitable choice for families with children or travelers with pets, who are better off in more spacious cabins or dedicated family hotels.
Who is Huize Leeghwater for?
Huize Leeghwater is no ordinary accommodation ; it's a destination in itself. It's ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking peace, luxury, and a deep connection with nature. Those who enjoy cycling, hiking, and exploring the historic cities of North Holland, such as Hoorn, De Rijp, and Alkmaar, will appreciate its central location. The focus on well-being and sustainability attracts a clientele that values a conscious and personalized travel experience. Families, budget travelers, or guests seeking the vibrancy of a city center may want to explore other options, such as villas or larger-scale holiday apartments . However, for those seeking the unique combination of polder landscape, high-quality comfort, and genuine hospitality, Huize Leeghwater is a choice that more than lives up to the high expectations.