Old Bakery Bed and Breakfast

Housed in a building with a rich history dating back to the 18th century, the Oude Bakkerij Bed and Breakfast in the heart of Oud-Rijswijk offers an experience deeply rooted in local history. Once a true master bakery, the building has been transformed by owner Ivo van Zijderveld into a striking hospedaje (guest house) that quickly garnered praise after its opening in 2021, even landing in the top 3 of the best B&Bs in the Netherlands. This accommodation caters to travelers seeking an alternative to impersonal, large-scale hotels and offers an intimate atmosphere with a nod to the past. However, an in-depth look at the guest experiences and the amenities on offer reveals a picture with both significant pluses and some serious concerns.

The Qualities of the Old Bakery

The vast majority of guests are exceptionally positive about their stay, and several aspects are consistently praised. The most striking feature is the unique and atmospheric decor. The themed accommodations , such as the "Anton Pieck Room" and "The Flour Loft," combine the charm of the 250-year-old building with modern comforts. Guests describe the rooms as original, cozy, yet modern, giving them a spacious feel. This unique character distinguishes them from a standard departamento or apartamentos vacacionales and creates a memorable experience.

Excellent Breakfast and Comfort

Another element highlighted in almost every positive review is the breakfast. It's described as "great," "fantastic," and "very tasty and complete." The selection is diverse, with something for everyone and, importantly, good coffee. This is a crucial part of the B&B experience, and De Oude Bakkerij seems to excel in this area. Besides the culinary delights, the sleeping comfort is highly appreciated. One guest specifically emphasized the "high-quality, wonderful beds and mattresses," an essential element for any type of alojamiento , from a simple Posada to a luxury resort .

Location and Hospitality

The location on the charming Schoolstraat in Oud-Rijswijk is a strategic advantage. With charming restaurants around the corner and the proximity of cities like The Hague and Delft, the B&B serves as an ideal base. The friendly and helpful owner, Ivo, is personally mentioned as a positive factor, which enhances the personal atmosphere. Moreover, the accommodation is pet-friendly, a significant advantage for guests traveling with their pets, something not always possible in traditional hostales or hosterias . The B&B also demonstrates a conscious approach to sustainability, by using solar panels, a solar water heater, and biodegradable cleaning products.

Critical Considerations and Disadvantages

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are some caveats that potential guests should consider. A recurring criticism, from a guest who gave a lower rating, concerns the impersonal welcome. Communication takes place via an intercom and telephone, with no direct human contact upon arrival. For travelers who value the personal interaction of a traditional B&B or albergue , this can be perceived as a drawback.

A Potentially Dangerous Design Flaw

The most concerning point raised by guest experiences is a potential safety hazard. One guest reported an unexpected, high step of approximately 30 centimeters in one of the rooms. This unobtrusive change in level resulted in a sprained ankle when the guest tripped over it during the night. This is a significant drawback that should not be overlooked. For people with mobility issues, or for anyone who needs to get out of bed at night, such an unexpected obstacle poses a serious risk. It's a detail one wouldn't expect in professionally managed villas or cabañas , and it's crucial that prospective guests are informed about this or inquire about the specific layout of their assigned room.

Variation in Room Size

While the rooms are generally considered well-designed, some, such as the "Anton Pieck" room, can be on the small side. This is a subjective observation, but it's useful information for managing the expectations of guests accustomed to more space.

Final judgment

The Oude Bakkerij Bed and Breakfast in Rijswijk presents itself as a charming and highly rated accommodation with unique character, an excellent breakfast, and a prime location. For travelers seeking a cozy and comfortable hospedaje with a personal touch, this seems like an excellent choice. The praise for the beds, the atmosphere, and the owner's hospitality speaks volumes. However, the downside is an impersonal check-in process and, more importantly, a potential safety hazard in the form of a treacherous step in at least one room. This last point is a serious consideration, and it is recommended that guests, especially those with mobility limitations, proactively inquire about the specifics of their room to ensure a safe and carefree stay.