Camping farm de-Heikant
BackCamping farm de-Heikant, located on Durendaelweg in Berkel-Enschot, offered campers and groups a unique kind of hospedaje, rooted in the simplicity of Brabant rural life. Unlike large-scale hotels or luxury resorts , this location presented itself as a working horse breeding farm where guests could stay surrounded by nature and animals. The core of the experience was the rustic, no-nonsense atmosphere, which was both a source of attraction and a topic of discussion among visitors.
Important Notice: Status of the Camping Farm
According to the most recent information available on the official website, Kampeerboerderij de-Heikant has permanently closed its doors. Bookings are no longer possible. The analysis below is based on the campsite's operational history and the experiences of former guests, and serves as a profile of what this alojamiento had to offer.
The Accommodations and Facilities Offered
The campsite was small, with approximately twenty pitches equipped with electricity. These pitches were intended for tents, caravans, and campers. The layout was spacious, with the central area deliberately kept clear to provide space for play and relaxation. A policy appreciated by many was that cars were only allowed on the grounds for loading and unloading, which contributed to the tranquility and safety. In addition to the pitches, there was also a group accommodation, which functioned as a kind of albergue or hostería. This was particularly popular with youth groups. A review from a group of young people described the accommodation as clean and functional, with a small kitchen equipped with no fewer than eight gas burners – a significant advantage for cooking for a large group. A notable omission, however, was the lack of an oven, which somewhat limited the culinary possibilities. This type of basic provision is typical of a functional hospedaje and less so of luxury Apartamentos vacacionales .
Sanitary Facilities: A Mixed Picture
The sanitary facilities were a frequent topic in the reviews. The owners advertised a centrally heated restroom, including a wheelchair-accessible shower and toilet. Several guests described the restrooms as neat and clean. However, other experiences paint a different picture. One visitor who camped in winter found the restroom too cold and criticized the lack of basic amenities like hand soap and toilet paper. Another guest was surprised that a shower cost 50 euro cents, a detail unexpected given the €25 per night price. This conflicting information suggests that the experience could vary greatly depending on the season and personal expectations. It's a clear example of how a stay that one person considers a charming, simple posada can feel like an alojamiento lacking basic comforts to another.
The Atmosphere: Horses, Peace and Hospitality
The undisputed highlight of Kampeerboerderij de-Heikant was the atmosphere. As a working horse breeding farm, the farm offered a constant view of horses in the pasture, and in the spring, guests could enjoy newborn foals. For those who love animals and the outdoors, this was a decisive factor. The owners, Jo and Harrie Kolen, were generally described as hospitable and friendly, which contributed to a pleasant, personal welcome. The overall atmosphere was one of "wonderful tranquility," as one guest put it. This wasn't a place with an entertainment team or extensive facilities like you would find in a resort or larger villa ; its appeal lay precisely in its absence. It was a place to unwind, in keeping with the character of a traditional hostería .
Location: Pros and Cons
The campsite's location offered both advantages and disadvantages. A major advantage was its proximity to various tourist attractions. The famous Loonse and Drunense Dunes and the Oisterwijk forests and fens were within cycling distance, as was the La Trappe brewery with its tasting room. This made the campsite an excellent base for cyclists and hikers. The village of Berkel-Enschot was also within walking distance for groceries or a bite to eat.
A significant drawback, mentioned by a critical visitor, was the location on Durendaelweg, a road that was perceived as "quite busy." The resulting noise, for some, detracted from the promised tranquility. This detail is important for potential guests seeking absolute silence in their alojamiento. The location, therefore, did not offer the secluded tranquility of some Cabañas , but rather a rural setting with the comforts and inconveniences of nearby civilization.
Value for Money: A Point to Consider
The price-quality ratio was another point of contention. One guest who paid 25 euros per night (plus an extra charge for the shower) found this too expensive for what was offered. The main criticisms were the alleged lack of maintenance and the aforementioned noise pollution. This campsite was included in a booklet about the "100 best campervan sites," but according to this guest, it didn't meet those expectations. This illustrates that perceived value depends heavily on the standard one is accustomed to. For those looking for cheap Habitaciones or a simple Hostal , the price may seem reasonable, but for those expecting the amenities of a well-maintained campervan site, it could be disappointing. It wasn't a Departamento with all the amenities, but a pure camping experience.
Who Was This Stay Ideal For?
Camping farm de-Heikant was an alojamiento with a distinctive character. It was ideally suited to a specific target group: self-sufficient campers, horse enthusiasts, and those seeking peace and quiet who appreciate a no-nonsense approach and aren't looking for luxury. Groups seeking a functional and affordable albergue for a work or school camp were also welcome. However, it was less suitable for travelers expecting the polished service of Hoteles, or for those highly sensitive to traffic noise or demanding high standards of maintenance and sanitary facilities. De Heikant was an authentic camping farm that offered an authentic, if sometimes somewhat rough, Brabant experience.