The Secret of the Miller

Situated on the IJsseldijk in Kampen, next to the historic windmill 'd'Olde Zwarver', Bed & Breakfast 't Geheim van de Molenaer offers a lodging experience that relies heavily on personal hospitality and a unique location. This B&B is run by Janneke and Ernst, a couple, and the vast majority of guests are exceptionally positive about their approach. It's not a large-scale alojamiento , but an intimate setting that distinguishes itself from the standard hoteles or anonymous resorts .

The Power of Personal Attention and a Unique Breakfast

The common thread running through the many rave reviews is the warm and welcoming welcome from the owners. Guests describe it as a "warm bath," with Janneke and Ernst doing everything they can to make their stay as pleasant as possible. This personal approach, including stories about the history of the house and the mill, creates a rare atmosphere. The B&B even successfully participated in the Omroep MAX television program "Bed & Breakfast," where it tied for first place, underscoring the high quality of their service.

An absolute highlight mentioned by almost every guest is breakfast. This isn't just a meal, but a comprehensive and lovingly prepared experience. The most special element is the bread, baked by the owner himself using flour straight from the adjacent mill. Freshly squeezed juice, a variety of toppings, fruit, and other delicacies make breakfast so abundant that guests often skip lunch. This detail elevates the stay from a simple overnight stay to a culinary and authentic experience.

The Habitaciones : View and Atmosphere

The B&B offers various types of accommodations , each with its own character. The "IJsselzicht" room is praised for its beautiful view of the IJssel River, where guests can enjoy the passing ships. The "Molenzicht" room, as the name suggests, offers a picturesque view of the windmill. The decor is often described as nostalgic and atmospheric, in keeping with the historic surroundings. Amenities such as comfortable, electrically adjustable beds, a stocked minibar, coffee and tea making facilities, and a private bathroom contribute to a comfortable stay. This type of personalized hospedaje offers an alternative for travelers looking for more than a standard room.

A Critical Note: 't Dijkhuis

Despite the overwhelming positivity, there's one important point potential guests should consider. In addition to the rooms in the main building, the B&B also offers a separate accommodation called "t Dijkhuis." This detached cottage is advertised on the B&B website and on booking sites as a private option with its own entrance. However, there's a very detailed and extremely negative review specifically about this space. This experience stands in stark contrast to the praise for the other rooms.

The criticism of 't Dijkhuis includes several serious points:

• Furnishings and Comfort: The room was described as a "furnished barn" with outdated and uncomfortable furniture. The pillows, in particular, were considered substandard, with hardly any padding.
• Bathroom Amenities: The reviewer reported a strong urine odor in the bathroom. The shower was a constant, lukewarm temperature, and the mirror reportedly had a burn mark.
• Hygiene and Maintenance: Complaints were raised about the overall cleanliness, including sticky floors and dirty windows. The owner's response to the odor complaint was perceived as dismissive.

This review paints a picture of a stay that deviates far from the luxurious and warm experience described by other guests. It suggests that the quality and maintenance of 't Dijkhuis may not be up to the same standard as the rooms in the main building. For those seeking a stay comparable to comfortable Apartamentos Vacacionales or cozy Cabañas , it is essential to verify the specific condition and amenities of 't Dijkhuis before booking.

A Stay with Two Faces?

't Geheim van de Molenaer presents itself as a top choice for those seeking a charming and personal B&B experience in Kampen. The combination of its idyllic location, the owners' exceptional hospitality, and the renowned "miller's breakfast" justifies its high ratings. The rooms in the main building, such as "IJsselzicht," seem to guarantee a successful stay. It's not a traditional hostería or posada , but a unique form of small-scale tourism.

However, the existence of a very negative experience with 't Dijkhuis cannot be ignored. It raises questions about the consistency of quality within the accommodation. Potential guests are wise to explicitly inquire about the various options when booking. Staying in the main building seems the most reliable choice for those who want the acclaimed "Secret of the Molenaer" experience. For adventurous travelers who would normally choose hostals or albergues , this may be less of a problem, but for those seeking comfort, it is a point to consider. This B&B is not a collection of luxury villas , but a place where the experience can depend heavily on the room chosen, in this case, the Departamento called 't Dijkhuis.