Hunze resting place
BackHoused in a characteristic, over 150-year-old farmhouse in Spijkerboor, Drenthe, the Hunzepleisterplaats offers a unique type of accommodation geared towards groups of up to ten people. This accommodation, which occupies the rear of the farmhouse, is designed for family weekends, groups of friends, and team-building sessions, with self-catering as the guiding principle. Its location directly on the Hunze River and its focus on a homely, welcoming atmosphere are its most striking features.
Layout of the Accommodation and Rooms
The Hunzepleisterplaats has a total of five habitaciones (bedrooms), strategically distributed across the ground and first floors. This layout offers a degree of flexibility and privacy for different groups. Two of the bedrooms are located on the ground floor and each has its own bathroom with a shower and toilet. This makes them particularly suitable for guests with limited mobility or who simply prefer more privacy. Guests who have stayed here praise the quality and comfort of the beds, with even those almost two meters tall indicating that the beds and showers are sufficiently long—a detail often overlooked in many hotels .
The remaining three bedrooms are located on the first floor. These rooms share a bathroom with a shower and bathtub, and a separate toilet in the hallway. While this setup is functional for a group, it's an important consideration for potential guests. One review specifically mentions that these shared bathroom facilities were perceived as "very noisy." This can somewhat impact privacy and tranquility, depending on the group's composition and habits. It's a consideration to make when booking this type of hospedaje (accommodation).
Common Areas: The Heart of the Home
One of the Hunzepleisterplaats's greatest strengths is the design of its communal areas, which seem to be designed to foster togetherness. The kitchen serves as the social hub of the posada (inn). Guests emphasize the large dining table, spacious enough for the entire group, as the central place for meals and socializing. The kitchen itself is described as fully equipped and well-equipped, with a large gas stove and a wide oven, making cooking for a large group much easier. This makes it an ideal self-sufficient apartment for groups.
In addition to the kitchen/diner, a separate relaxation area has been created on the upper floor. This "living room" is furnished with sofas, chairs, a large table, and a large television. This allows the group to split up or watch a movie together, adding to the versatility of the accommodation. It's more than a simple albergue (youth hostel); the presence of multiple living spaces gives it the luxury of a private villa .
Hospitality and Service: A Personal Welcome
What distinguishes the Hunzepleisterplaats from many other group accommodations is the exceptionally high praise for the hospitality of the managers, Elly and Frank Kastermans. Almost every public review praises the warm and friendly welcome. A recurring and highly appreciated detail is the homemade apple and cinnamon cake that awaits guests upon arrival. This kind of personal attention, combined with the availability of fresh eggs from their own chickens, creates a sense of welcome and care that goes beyond standard service. This personal approach gives the stay the character of a warm hostería (inn) where you immediately feel at home.
Facilities and Activities: More than just a roof over your head
The location directly on the Hunze River is one of its greatest assets. The property cleverly capitalizes on this by offering guests free use of several canoes and kayaks. This is a significant advantage and provides an accessible way to explore the water-rich surroundings. The garden, which borders the water, features several seating areas and offers opportunities for fishing or simply relaxing on the shore. This makes it practically a small-scale resort for water enthusiasts.
For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there's plenty to do in the area. Guests recommend the nearby café "Het Keerpunt," just a minute's walk away, as an ideal spot for a meal. The location in the Hunze Valley is perfect for hiking and cycling. It's an excellent base for exploring the Drentsche Aa National Park.
The Pros and Cons in a Row
When considering the Hunzepleisterplaats for a group stay, an objective assessment of the strengths and weaknesses is essential.
Advantages:
- Excellent Hospitality: The personal and warm welcome by the owners is unanimously praised.
- Ideal for Groups: The layout with a large kitchen/diner and separate living room is perfect for groups of up to 10 people.
- Complete Amenities: A very well equipped kitchen and comfortable, clean rooms.
- Unique Location and Extras: Directly on the river with free use of canoes and kayaks.
- Practical details: Good beds (also for tall people) and proximity to a local cafe.
Disadvantages and Points of Attention:
- Noise: The main drawback mentioned is the noise from the shared bathroom and toilet for the three upstairs rooms. This might be a consideration for groups who value privacy and quiet.
- Restrictions: The property is explicitly not intended for youth or student groups, and pets are not allowed. Smoking is prohibited indoors.
- Seasonal influences: One comment suggests that it can be a little chilly in the colder months (November), something to bear in mind when planning.
The Hunzepleisterplaats is an excellent choice for families and groups of friends looking for a well-equipped and charming base in Drenthe. It's not your average hostal or one of the many anonymous apartamentos vacacionales (holiday apartments). Its strength lies in the combination of a practical, spacious layout and an exceptionally personal and hospitable approach. The free use of canoes is a significant bonus. The only serious drawback to consider is the potential for noise transmission from the shared bathroom facilities. For groups who don't mind this and prioritize a warm welcome and a beautiful location over absolute silence, this accommodation offers a very complete and enjoyable experience.
