Nature camping site De Rietkraag
BackDe Rietkraag Nature Campsite, located in Lemelerveld, offers a type of accommodation that consciously stands out from the crowd. This is no ordinary campsite, but an officially recognized Nature Campsite, affiliated with the De Groene Koepel Foundation. This membership guarantees an experience where peace, space, and experiencing nature take center stage, a promise that De Rietkraag seems to fulfill in almost every way. Potential visitors should note that a Nature Campsite Card is required for a stay, a small step that helps ensure the exclusivity and rustic atmosphere of the site.
The Undeniable Plus Points of De Rietkraag
Those seeking a serene escape will find a nearly unparalleled oasis here. The most praised feature, echoed in countless guest testimonials, is the combination of exceptional tranquility and the generous layout of the pitches. With only a limited number of pitches spread across a landscaped site, privacy is paramount here. The pitches are large, well-maintained, and often offer a choice between sheltered seating under birch trees or a sunny, open spot with expansive views, screened by hedges. This is in stark contrast to the closely spaced cabañas or standardized plots of a large-scale resort . The feeling of freedom and the direct connection with the surrounding nature are the true luxury here.
Higher Level Facilities and Hygiene
Another area where De Rietkraag excels is the quality and cleanliness of its facilities. The restrooms are unanimously praised for being modern, spotlessly clean, and comfortable, with the added luxury of underfloor heating. Thoughtful attention has been given to details, such as a family shower, a baby bath, and accessible facilities. This level of care and hygiene far exceeds what one would expect from a simple albergue and is comparable to that of good hotels .
In addition to the excellent sanitary facilities, the site offers a range of thoughtful amenities. The "Best Room" functions as a communal living room with a wood-burning stove, books, and games, ideal for less sunny days. For practical convenience, there's a kitchen with cooking facilities, a refrigerator, and a freezer. Modern amenities are also catered for, with free Wi-Fi and a charging station for electric cars and bicycles. Unique extras such as a wood-fired pizza oven for guests' use and the free canoe rental for canal trips enhance your stay.
Sustainability as a Core Value
De Rietkraag (The Reed Collar) is more than just a name; it refers to the owners' ecological vision. A helophyte filter, a natural system using reeds, purifies the campsite's wastewater before it is returned to nature. This sustainable approach, combined with the use of green energy, solar panels, and the avoidance of chemicals, demonstrates a deep respect for the environment. This ecological awareness is a significant advantage for the target group who consciously chooses a natural form of hospedaje.
Personal Hospitality
The owners, Sander and Eveline, are consistently described as warm, hospitable, and helpful. Their personal approach, the time for a chat, and their visible passion for their property contribute significantly to the positive experience. The service, such as an optional à la carte breakfast on Sundays or fresh bread rolls in the morning, reinforces the feeling of a well-cared-for stay, far removed from the anonymity of large vacation homes or an impersonal hostería .
Important Considerations for the Potential Guest
Despite the overwhelming praise, there are a few key considerations that determine whether De Rietkraag is the right choice. These points aren't drawbacks in the traditional sense, but rather characteristics that define the campsite's identity.
A Specific Target Group
The most crucial aspect is the atmosphere. De Rietkraag attracts a clientele consciously seeking tranquility. Reviews and even its own website explicitly state that the site is less suitable for families with teenagers looking for entertainment and organized entertainment. There's no swimming pool or disco, unlike some villas or holiday parks. For younger children, there are certainly some fun features, such as a sand and water area, an animal pasture with pigs and rabbits, and the opportunity to swim in the canal. However, those expecting a vibrant, activity-packed holiday would be better off looking for a different type of alojamiento . This is a place for tranquility, not for boisterous entertainment.
Small scale and Location
The small scale is one of its greatest strengths, but it also means that reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. The limited number of camping pitches fills up quickly. The rural location, about a kilometer from the village of Lemelerveld, is ideal for cycling and hiking in the nature reserves of the Vechtdal and Sallandse Heuvelrug. For larger errands or urban activities, a car or a longer bike ride is necessary, although the free rental bikes are a handy service for a quick trip to the village.
A Well-Considered Choice
De Rietkraag nature campsite isn't an all-in-one department or a luxurious posada , but a specialized destination that excels at what it promises: an authentic, peaceful, and comfortable nature experience. For campers who value space, impeccable hygiene, sustainability, and personalized attention, this is an absolute must. Its strength lies precisely in what it doesn't offer: no crowds, no noise, no forced entertainment. It's a well-considered choice for those who prefer silence to the hustle and bustle and the starry sky to disco lights. For this traveler, De Rietkraag offers a form of hospedaje that's hard to match.