Holiday home Salland – Two-Bedroom House
BackThe Stay at Holiday Home Salland in Markelo, located in the province of Overijssel, presents itself as a self-contained villa that stands out from more traditional hotels or crowded resorts . This location is specifically geared towards guests who prefer privacy and a direct connection to nature, making it an attractive alternative to a standard apartment or a hostería with shared amenities. While the name suggests a simple cottage or cabaña , the details and reviews suggest that the level of luxury and amenities offered elevate this Alojamiento to a higher segment, perhaps comparable to an exclusive holiday apartment experience, albeit in a more rural setting.
It's important to note that, unlike a hostel or guesthouse, which focuses on short-term stays with minimal facilities, Vakantiewoning Salland offers a complete home. Housed in a building dating back to 1987, this home is designed for self-catering, meaning guests have their own rooms and living space, a major plus for families or couples seeking independence. The reviews, generally rated "Good" to "Excellent" (often around 9.4 or 4 out of 5 stars on various platforms), confirm the high level of satisfaction with the facilities offered and the quiet location between Markelo and Holten.
The Strengths of the Private Residence
One of the most praised features of this property is its emphasis on outdoor living and relaxation. The property sits on a private 3,000-square-meter plot with a fully enclosed garden, a rarity in the rental market and immediately contributes to the feeling of exclusivity and security. This is a distinct advantage over resort-style complexes where gardens are often shared. It offers a level of tranquility rarely matched by a youth hostel or even a typical hostel .
The presence of several terraces is another highlight. One terrace is equipped with a BBQ and a dining table for six, perfect for al fresco meals while enjoying the view of the surrounding meadows, where guests report sightings of rabbits and deer in the morning. This direct contact with the local wildlife contributes to the serene experience one seeks in a rural villa. The ability to enjoy the outdoors without direct contact with other guests is a major plus for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of a busy hotel.
The most striking luxury feature is the optional, but much-discussed, large jacuzzi (or "hot tub") on one of the terraces. This spa is described as featuring atmospheric lighting and various massage jets, offering a wellness experience rarely found in a standard cottage. The ability to stream music from a phone while relaxing in the warm spa underscores the modern luxury incorporated into this rustic setting. Although it carries an optional extra charge (the jacuzzi is listed at €100 per stay, an important detail for budgeting), many guests consider it an indispensable addition to their stay. This amenity elevates the experience far beyond the basic amenities of a typical guesthouse.
Inside the property , which sleeps four people in two bedrooms (one with a double bed and the other with a single bed), the cozy decor and comprehensive inventory are praised. Guests note that almost everything has been thought of, from plenty of cups and bowls to essentials like a dryer, electric kettle, and even air conditioning, which is a blessing in warmer weather. This level of equipment often exceeds what one might expect from a simple Posada or a basic Albergue . The living room features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. There's also a fireplace, which adds ambiance during cooler evenings, a feature often lacking in modern apartments .
The owners, Souleiman and Eddi, are described in reviews as very friendly and hospitable. There are reports of a warm welcome, perhaps with a bouquet of flowers or even snacks, which demonstrates the personal attention lacking in large commercial hotels or chains. Their commitment to ensuring guests leave with a "very relaxed feeling," as if they'd just been on vacation for three weeks, demonstrates a clear focus on customer satisfaction. This level of personalized service is a crucial selling point for this type of small-scale accommodation.
The location itself offers excellent opportunities for nature lovers. Just 1 kilometer away is the De Borkeld nature reserve, known for its sheepfold and expansive heathlands, which can provide a feeling of complete seclusion. The Sallandse Heuvelrug, a larger nature reserve with a nature museum, is 5 kilometers away, making it an ideal base for hikers and cyclists—a key selling point for this type of cottage or holiday home . Although the village center of Markelo is approximately 5 km away, meaning it's not exactly around the corner, the proximity of cities like Deventer (known for its historic buildings and restaurants) and Rijssen (for shopping) offers a good balance between tranquility and accessibility to amenities. The setting promotes a deep sense of peace, which is often the reason why people choose to stay outside the city limits.
Considerations and Potential Limitations
Despite the many praises, there are some crucial points that potential guests should consider when choosing Vakantiewoning Salland over, for example, a resort with a 24-hour reception or a hostel with shared facilities.
First, there's the pet and smoking policy. The information clearly states that pets are not allowed and smoking is also prohibited in the property. For travelers with a four-legged friend or for whom a smoke-free stay isn't strictly necessary, this can be a decisive factor in choosing a different type of cottage or holiday apartment . This is a strict rule that guarantees the exclusivity of the property but limits its flexibility.
Secondly, the availability of the most important luxury option, the jacuzzi, is not included as standard in the base price. The aforementioned surcharge of €100 per stay is an additional cost that can significantly increase the total budget for the Alojamiento . Guests expecting the wellness experience based on the descriptions should be sure to book this option and factor the associated costs into their considerations. The same applies to the use of air conditioning and bicycles, which are also listed as optional extras. This is in contrast to some hotels or resorts where these amenities are included as standard.
Another point that requires caution is cleaning. It states that a cleaning fee is mandatory , separate from the rental price. This is common for vacation rentals , but it's essential for guests to understand whether this fee is high and how it affects the total price compared to a hotel, where cleaning is included in the room rate. Check-in and check-out times are also strict: check-in is at 4:00 PM and check-out is at 10:00 AM. This is typical for this type of accommodation and can be restrictive for guests arriving early or departing late, unlike the often more flexible schedules of larger hotels.
While the overall reviews are high, it's important to note that the location focuses more on tranquility and nature than on proximity to city centers or major tourist attractions. Distances to major attractions almost always require a car. This means the accommodation is less suitable for travelers who rely primarily on public transport, although the nearest bus stop is within walking distance. Those looking for a youth hostel or hostel in the center of activity will find a different experience here. The proximity to nature reserves is a plus, but the infrastructure around the house is that of a rural area, not a densely populated tourist zone.
for the nature lover
Holiday Home Salland is an excellent choice for the discerning traveler who prefers a private villa or cottage over standard hotel rooms. It combines luxury (jacuzzi, modern kitchen) with a deep connection to the rural Twente landscape. Its strengths lie in its privacy, spacious enclosed garden, and the personal, warm welcome from the owners. It's a place where one can escape the hustle and bustle and truly unwind, unlike the bustle of a resort . The entire design is aimed at creating a sanctuary, far from the anonymity of large rental chains. This accommodation proves that luxury and tranquility can go hand in hand, far from the beaten track of traditional tourist centers. Choosing this type of cottage or villa in Markelo is a choice for quality of time and space, far beyond the standard guesthouse or inn experience. It's a step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and a step closer to the authenticity of the Dutch countryside, an experience anyone with the right expectations will truly appreciate. Those who are willing to pay the extra for the optional luxury will find one of the highest-rated holiday apartments in the region here.
