TRIED & TESTED: BOERDERIJLODGES TWENTE

Most striking feature:

I don’t have kids, but if I had them there is only one place to go in the Netherlands for a week of fun (and design of course) in summer: Boerderijlodges in Twente. There are several farms turned into design lodges. Kids can play outside and pretend they run a farm. They can chase chickens or cuddle with a kitten. And meanwhile the mother can relax in the designtub inside. Follow a yoga lesson. Or just read a book. Get some homemade cheese or bread at a nearby farmer and you can start preparing dinner. This sounds like an advert for starting a big and happy family doesn’t? I only want to say: skip Port Zélande and other massive resorts and start relaxing in a cool environment. 

From 99 euro. Check out: www.boerderijlodges.nl

TRIED & TESTED: HENGELER HENGELO

Karianne Vermaas is a new contributor of Petite Passport – with a fantastic knowledge of spots in the East of the Netherlands. This is her report of the Hengeler Horeca Group:

Most striking feature:

‘The industrial elements. This former Hazemeyer factory was transformed into a tasteful lounge/restaurant and exclusive beer brewery. You can’t miss the authentic industrial look of the building, with brick walls and kettles &  pipes. It is beautifully combined with the warm, but sleek and stylish furniture. It’s hard to decide where to sit; downstairs around the bar in the cubicles, near the windows in the lounge area or at a table…or… upstairs in the stylish and very comfy chairs. Why not try them all?And while enjoying the ambiance, you will find the food isn’t disturbing your experience! A funny surprise: their delicious bread is served on a stick.’

Check out: www.hengeler.nl