The Swan

Camping 't Zwaantje, located on Zwanenburgseweg in Megchelen, Gelderland, presents itself as an SVR mini-campsite where peace, space, and personal attention are paramount. This accommodation is not a large-scale resort with several hotels or holiday apartments , but rather caters to campers who appreciate the charm of the countryside and a friendly atmosphere. The operation is a true family business, founded in 1986 by Gerrit and Lien Lubbers and later taken over by their grandson Niels, who significantly modernized the campsite. This combination of tradition and innovation is at the heart of the experience visitors can expect here.

Excellent Facilities and Personal Hospitality

One of the most praised aspects of 't Zwaantje is undoubtedly the quality of the sanitary facilities. Guests unanimously praise the new, heated sanitary building, which features underfloor heating. The showers and toilets are described as very spacious, modern, and above all, spotlessly clean. This is a decisive factor for many campers and where this campsite scores significantly higher than many competitors. It's a detail that illustrates the owner's dedication and contributes to a comfortable stay .

The hospitality, led by owner Niels, is also frequently mentioned as a major plus. Visitors describe him as a friendly and helpful host who provides a warm welcome and shows personal commitment to his guests. The story becomes even more personal with the mention of Grandpa Gerrit, who, despite his advanced age, still helps out. This family atmosphere ensures that guests quickly feel at home and are happy to return. It is this personal approach that distinguishes a standard hospedaje from a place where one feels truly welcome.

The Campsites and the Offer

The campsite offers approximately 25 spacious comfort pitches of approximately 120 square meters. Each pitch is well-equipped with a 10-amp electrical hookup, a private water tap, and a gray water drain, significantly increasing comfort. Some pitches have a paved area, ideal for awnings. In addition to traditional pitches for tents and caravans, the campsite historically also had two cottages , or cabañas , for rent, although the most recent information focuses primarily on the pitches. Therefore, this is not the ideal location for travelers looking for permanent rooms or a complete apartment . The offerings are purely focused on the authentic camping experience, albeit with modern conveniences.

Environment and Accessibility

't Zwaantje's location is a strategic advantage. Close to the German border and just 1.5 kilometers from Gendringen, it offers an excellent base for a variety of activities. For daily groceries, guests can easily cycle to the supermarket in Gendringen. Nature lovers and hikers will find plenty to enjoy, with the famous Noaberpad just 400 meters away and a nearby forest ideal for a stroll, with or without a dog. The surrounding area is perfect for cycling, with numerous routes leading through the Dutch Achterhoek countryside and across the border into Germany. Cities such as 's-Heerenberg with Huis Bergh Castle, historic Zutphen, and Bocholt in Germany for a day of shopping are all easily accessible and well worth a visit.

A Point of Consideration: The Farm Context

An objective analysis also requires consideration of potential drawbacks. As a "farm campsite," 't Zwaantje is part of a working agricultural area. While the vast majority of recent reviews praise the peace and quiet, an older review mentions nuisance. A few years ago, a guest experienced noise and the smell of diesel from tractors operating on the property in the evenings. The guest in question found this disturbing and unpleasant.

It's important to put this into context. This experience seems to be an exception, given the many recent positive comments that emphasize the serene atmosphere. It's possible this was an isolated or seasonal phenomenon, or that the management has since been adjusted since the full focus shifted to the modernized campsite. Potential visitors who are extremely sensitive to noise should be aware, however, that staying at a farm campsite is inherently different from staying at a secluded villa park or a quiet hostel . The charm of farm life can sometimes come with its own set of sounds.

Who is 't Zwaantje Ideal for?

Camping 't Zwaantje is the perfect choice for campers seeking small-scale, impeccably maintained accommodation with top-notch sanitary facilities. It's an ideal spot for those seeking peace and quiet, cyclists, hikers, and couples who appreciate the personal touch and friendly, family atmosphere. The combination of spacious, well-equipped pitches and its strategic location near the German border makes it an attractive base for short or longer stays in the Achterhoek region. While it's not a large resort, and the agricultural setting could be a potential concern for the lightest sleepers, the overwhelming positives—Niels' hospitality and the superb facilities—outweigh most visitors. The many enthusiastic and returning guests confirm that 't Zwaantje more than lives up to its promises of peace, space, and hospitality.