Glamping with Maaike
Last summer, Maaike and her family set off for a new destination. This time, the journey took them to Camping Siësta in Belgium. This campsite is located just across the border from the Netherlands in the Belgian town of Wechelderzande. Curious about Maaike's experience on her glamping vacation? You can read about it in the guest blog below.
Where did you stay?
''Inspired by good stories and enthusiastic reviews, we set off for Camping Siësta. It's located in De Kempen, a green region in the north of Belgium. Easy to reach, lots of nature, and full of variety. After just an hour and a half drive, we enter the campsite where Vodatent has set up four safari tents with their own bathroom facilities. We see it right away: what a wonderful place here in the middle of the woods! The safari tents are situated along a winding path on a newly redesigned field. It has only just opened, but it's already beautiful thanks to the great amount of energy that owners Mark and Mariska have put into it.''
What does Camping Siësta have to offer?
''In addition to about 30 tent and caravan pitches, there is a campfire area, a playground, and a small cafe with a terrace on the field. The campsite is larger, but because this field is somewhat more secluded, you get the feeling of being on a small forest campsite. You can hear the birds, and occasionally, a bunny hops by. During the summer months, various activities are organized, from QR tours and games to safaris with the Siësta Ranger. From the campsite, you can easily walk into the woods and the heathlands, where we spotted various deer."
How do you experience the safari tent?
''The safari tent looks absolutely perfect and is equipped with all the comforts! Thanks to the two sleeping compartments with good beds, the four of us can sleep comfortably. In the kitchen, we find everything we need, and the bathroom has a toilet, a sink, and a comfortable shower. There is plenty of storage space, so we can store all our belongings: excellent. For the time being, we won't leave our lounge chairs on the veranda, while the kids freely roam the field.''
Which local attractions did you visit?
''There is a lot to do in the area! Owners Mark and Mariska are happy to help you with this. Of course, you will find many hiking, cycling, and mountain biking routes in the beautiful surroundings. We walked, among other places, through the blooming heath around the Achtzalighedenboom, through the beautiful Visbeekvallei, and on the Lovenhoek nature trail, a fun route for young and old with stepping stones, bridges, and boardwalks.
On a hot day, we visited the Lilse Bergen: a swimming lake in the middle of the woods. Admission is a few euros per person, and for that, you can use all the facilities all day, including a huge (water) playground! There is also a nice river nearby: the Nete. If you want to go out on a canoe or kayak, this is the right place!
Of course, nature lovers are not the only ones who will enjoy this place. Just around the corner in Wechelderzande is the charming Hof d'Intere, there are several nice villages nearby, and Antwerp is half an hour's drive away. In short, we really enjoyed our stay in a safari tent here!"
