Bakhuisje Zeeland

“It should feel like a hug,” says hostess Iske about staying in her vacation cottage near Schoondijke in Zeeland, the Netherlands. There’s hardly a better way to describe what makes this special place in a small hamlet so unique. Behind the white-painted façade with its dark blue shutters, there used to be a bakery. Where loaves of bread were once baked and the smell of delicious treats wafted through the air, there is now a living room. The old tiled oven in front of the bare brick wall was preserved during the renovation. And even though it no longer works, it seems to have preserved the cozy bakery atmosphere. What also contributes to the homely feel here is the selected vintage furniture, the original Cassina sofas in emerald green, lots of colorful cushions and blankets and a retro relaxation lounger in bright blue, which is so comfortable that you can’t help but doze off on it. The next floor up is just as welcoming with a free-standing bathtub that comfortably seats two adults, offering a view out through the skylight into the greenery of the garden. In this accommodation, you are far enough away from everything to only hear the birds and the rustling wind outside. Every now and then, the neighbor’s cat comes by on his forays. Admittedly, the Bakhuisje doesn’t make it easy to tear yourself away. But if you want to explore Zeeland with its islands, peninsulas and 650 kilometers of coastline, you might just have to—to discover windmills, lighthouses, traditional villages with typical canal architecture and enjoy lots of soft sand underfoot. And although this house offers you a warm welcome, your return will surely be even more enjoyable.

WHAT WE LIKE MOST:

• It’s precisely because this house is so small and cute that it has a special charm. Once inside, however, you’ll be surprised at how roomy it still feels, because the space has been used so perfectly.
• Can you already smell the sea? Could be, because the North Sea is only two kilometers away.
• The accommodation is located not far from the cute village of Schoondijke with its 1,500 inhabitants—a Flemish polder village with a mill, canals and small houses with typical local architecture.
• The hostess shares real favorites from the kitchen cupboard with her guests. Anyone who appreciates stylish tea and coffee sets will really love them.
• The open architecture on the top floor. Here you spend the night under white-painted wooden beams in a 180 by 200-centimeter bed, opposite the free-standing, large bathtub.
• The basics are provided, including herbs and spices, coffee and tea. After all, what could be more annoying than having to jet off again as soon as you arrive because the salt is missing?
• Hostess Iske puts her heart and soul into it, is helpful and responds quickly to questions and requests. She grew up in Zeeland, knows her way around and is happy to share her insider tips with her guests.
• The enchanted garden with wicker furniture, where you can always find a spot in the sun or shade, depending on your preference
• Even if you’re on vacation away from the hustle and bustle, you can still stop off for a bite to eat nearby. Iske’s favorite place for breakfast and lunch is the extremely pretty “Liefs Lies”, which is five kilometers away (you can easily get there on foot or by bike) or the beach pavilion “Loods Tien” two kilometers further on, with a view of the lighthouse and good sandwiches, the sweet Dutch treat of “poffertjes” and pancakes.

GOOD TO KNOW:

• There’s room for a maximum of two guests in the Bakhuisje (which is sometimes also called Lief Huisje, so don’t be surprised by that). The house can be booked for two nights or more, with a minimum stay of one week in July and August.
• On a practical note: The hostess rents out two Gazelle electric bikes for 15 euro a day each. It’s best to specify this when booking.
• The fully equipped kitchen has a large dining table, mocha maker, milk frother and dishwasher.
• Numerous books, magazines and games are available for when the weather calls for snuggling up—there are definitely plenty of places to make yourself comfortable.
• The small house is particularly suitable for couples; guests aged 18 and over are welcome.
• The bathroom with rain shower and underfloor heating (great after a walk on the beach on chilly days!) is located on the lower floor.
• There is no TV (so what?), but there is Internet!
• Toiletries, bed linen and towels are provided, if you come during the bathing season, you should pack a beach towel.
• Free parking spaces are available. You can also leave your car there for longer, as you can easily explore the surrounding area by bike.
• Antwerp and Ghent are both just over an hour’s drive away and are perfect for a day trip.