Star cube
BackA unique accommodation concept with important caveats
The Sterrenkubus, located on the Erfgoed Bossem grounds in Lattrop-Breklenkamp, presents itself as a distinctive form of accommodation . The concept is based on the popular "tiny house" movement and offers guests the promise of a night under the stars, thanks to a large glass dome above the bed. This type of hospedaje captures the imagination and attracts visitors looking for something different than the standard accommodations of regular hotels . The cubes are compact, modern, and cleverly designed, a fact appreciated by many visitors. They offer a unique experience that lies somewhere between camping and staying in a fully-fledged vacation home.
The appeal: the design and the experience
Upon arrival, guests are confronted with a modern and minimalist design. These cabañas are equipped with all the basic comforts: a small kitchenette, a functional bathroom, and a sitting area. The most prominent feature is the sleeping loft, accessible via a staircase, where a double bed is placed directly under the glass dome. Guests appreciate the originality and clever use of the limited space. The welcome, which takes place in the restaurant or tasting room of Erfgoed Bossem, is often described as warm and friendly. For special occasions, such as birthdays, festive decorations can be arranged for an additional fee. The breakfast, often featuring local and fresh products, is also considered a plus, although some note that the variety of meats, for example, can be limited.
The Promise of the Stars: A Critical Look
The core idea of the Sterrenkubus is observing the starry sky from your bed. The location in Northeast Twente is theoretically ideal for this, as it's one of the darkest areas in the Netherlands. The proximity of the Cosmos Observatory enhances this thematic experience. In practice, however, this promise isn't always fulfilled. Several guests reported that the view through the dome was disappointing. Reasons cited include the thickness of the double glazing, condensation on the outside, and even ice formation on the windows in colder weather. This leads to the paradoxical situation of staying in accommodation specifically designed for stargazing, but in practice, this is sometimes impossible. This is a significant drawback that potential guests should consider, as it directly impacts the unique selling point of this alojamiento.
Comfort and practical considerations
While the tiny house concept is charming, it does have practical limitations. The stairs to the sleeping loft make the Sterrenkubus unsuitable for people with physical disabilities. Tall people may find the space cramped. Another point of concern is the climate in the cube. There is no air conditioning, only a fan. This can result in a very high indoor temperature on hot summer days. Privacy is also a consideration; the compact design means there is little personal space, which isn't ideal for everyone. Compared to a more spacious departamento or one of the larger villas , staying here requires a certain degree of adaptability. The furnishings, while functional, are not considered comfortable by everyone; for example, one visitor described the sofa as uncomfortable. Details, such as a star-shaped ceiling repaired with duct tape, can detract from the perceived quality, especially considering the price range.
Price, service and the setting of the farm
A recurring point of criticism is the price-quality ratio. Several visitors indicate that they find the price a bit high for what is offered. The feeling of a small-scale, personal approach is sometimes missed; some compare the layout more to a spacious, somewhat impersonal campsite with various types of accommodations than to an intimate hostería or posada . A detail that contributes to this is the fact that guests have to wash their own breakfast dishes, something one would not expect with a stay in this price range.
Furthermore, it's crucial to realize that the Sterrenkubus is located on a working farm. This means there are cows in nearby stables. While this is part of the charm for some, it can also lead to noise pollution, such as the rattling of metal from the stables and the typical smells of a livestock farm. Some guests felt this information could have been communicated more clearly beforehand to properly manage expectations. This isn't a secluded albergue nestled in the tranquil countryside, but a hospedaje that is part of a working agricultural business.
Who is the Star Cube suitable for?
The Sterrenkubus undoubtedly offers a unique experience that deviates from a traditional resort or hotel. It's an ideal choice for adventurous couples looking for a short, romantic getaway and the minimalist lifestyle of a tiny house. The beautiful, tranquil Twente countryside offers ample opportunities for hiking and cycling. The proximity of the Cosmos Observatory is a definite plus.
Potential visitors should, however, be aware of the potential drawbacks. The stargazing, the main attraction, may be disappointing. The accommodations are physically restrictive and can be hot in summer. The price is perceived as steep, and the atmosphere may be less personal than expected. The setting on a working farm is a decisive factor that should be appreciated. Those looking for an alternative to the usual apartamentos vacacionales and willing to embrace the unique qualities—including the drawbacks—can have a memorable stay here. It's a polarizing experience : some find it a fantastic, cozy experience, or others find the reality doesn't quite live up to the high expectations and the price.
