Modern Hippy Campsite
BackLocated on Kruisbrinkseweg in Toldijk, the Modern Hippy Campsite offers a camping experience that consciously stands out from the crowd. It's a small-scale, sustainability-focused campsite run by owners Iris and Mart, whose personal commitment and philosophy are at the heart of the guest experience. This location isn't a standard resort or a traditional hotel ; it's a destination for those seeking peace, nature, and a sense of community. The concept is based on "slow living": slowing down, connecting with nature, and enjoying simplicity. With just ten spacious pitches on a 10,000-square-meter site, privacy and tranquility are guaranteed.
The Core of the Experience: Hospitality and Ambience
What truly sets Modern Hippy Campsite apart is the exceptional hospitality of its owners. Visitors describe how Iris and Mart go above and beyond to make a stay memorable. This is evident in thoughtful details, such as asking guests for their preferred pronouns, creating an inclusive and respectful atmosphere. Their flexibility and willingness to serve are remarkable; for example, they mention spontaneous barbecues delivered to tents and the special opening of the farm shop outside regular hours for essential groceries. Even lending a personal stand-up paddleboard when the rental stock runs out demonstrates a level of service that goes above and beyond the ordinary.
The atmosphere is further enhanced by the emphasis on community and the "hippy" lifestyle. Guests are regularly invited to join a communal campfire, which leads to lively conversations and new friendships. The opportunity to build your own fire at each campsite, with fire pits and the option to purchase s'mores kits, is a highly valued feature of the stay. This contributes to an authentic outdoor experience not easily found with large-scale Alojamiento providers.
Camping sites and surroundings
The camping pitches themselves are spacious and located in an orchard, meaning most enjoy the shade of fruit trees. Each pitch is equipped with its own picnic table and fire pit, significantly enhancing the comfort and camping experience. There are different types of pitches, each with its own character, such as "Madeliefje," a sheltered pitch exclusively for tents, or "Buttercup," with a more expansive view. This is a form of hospedaje that emphasizes a direct connection with the environment.
However, there are also some criticisms that potential visitors should consider. A recurring issue is that the nearby provincial road can be audible during the day, which can disrupt the rural tranquility for some. Furthermore, due to the presence of a dense hedge, the camping sites don't always offer an unobstructed and expansive view. This can be a drawback for campers specifically seeking a panoramic landscape.
Facilities: A Balance between Basic and Conscious
Guests describe the facilities at the Modern Hippy Campsite as "basic," which fits the back-to-basics philosophy. The sanitary facilities are modern, clean, and sustainably designed, with solar-heated showers and biodegradable toiletries. However, there are a few areas of concern that are frequently mentioned.
Sanitary Facilities: The Pros and Cons
One point of criticism is the consistency of the hot water for the showers. Several visitors noted that a hot shower isn't always guaranteed, which is especially felt as a drawback on colder days. Another practical consideration is the distance from the restrooms to some camping sites. Especially at night, the walk to the toilet can be quite long. A guest's humorous but telling tip was to "bring a bucket."
A unique, yet perhaps daunting, experience for some was "showering among the bees." While this is a charming part of the nature experience for some, it can be a serious drawback for others, especially allergy sufferers. Campers are asking for a dedicated service point for emptying chemical toilets and filling water tanks, so they can have full use of their own facilities.
Farm Shop and Extras
A major asset of the campsite is the on-site farm shop. This shop offers a wide range of local and delicious products, making it easy for guests to enjoy high-quality food on-site. In addition to the shop, there is a central area with a tent shelter, a communal refrigerator, and several seating areas. This serves as a social hub where guests can relax and gather, regardless of the weather. The offerings aren't limited to camping; the campsite doesn't offer Habitaciones , Cabañas, or Villas , but focuses purely on tent and campervan guests seeking an authentic experience. It's more of an open-air albergue than a traditional posada .
Pricing and Value Proposition
With a price around €30 per night, the campsite is positioned in the mid- to high-end segment for nature camping. Some guests, especially those who are completely self-sufficient with their campervan and therefore rarely use the facilities, find the price a bit high. From their perspective, you're paying for an experience you might not fully experience.
On the other hand, the price is considered justified by the majority of visitors. They see the value in the unique, intimate atmosphere, the personal attention of the owners, the spacious pitches with private fire pits, and the sustainable philosophy. It's not a budget option like some hostales or a simple departamento . The price reflects the unique proposition of a carefully curated camping experience. It's not a hostería with staff, but a place that requires a certain kind of self-reliance and an appreciation for simplicity.
Who is the Modern Hippy Campsite for?
The Modern Hippy Campsite is a distinct choice. It's the ideal destination for travelers seeking a relaxing holiday in a green, sustainable, and socially engaged environment. It's perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and those who value a personal approach and the joy of a campfire. The overwhelmingly positive reviews and the many guests who say they plan to return confirm the success of this concept.
However, this campsite is less suitable for those who prioritize luxury and impeccable comfort. Campers expecting a guaranteed hot shower at any time of day, a swimming pool, or absolute silence may not find what they're looking for here. This isn't a place for Apartamentos vacacionales . It's an honest, authentic place with a few rough edges that, for the right visitor, are actually part of its charm.