Unusual places to stay near Amsterdam: sleep in a retro 1950s wagon

If you’re looking for unusual places to stay near Amsterdam, this is it. This retro 1950s gypsy wagon is one of the most enchanting places I’ve ever experienced. The self-catering wagon, Bed & Beemster, is in a beautiful and historically significant region north of Amsterdam known as De Beemster.

De Beemster Polder is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site. The polder was created by draining Lake Beemster in 1612 and is considered to be one of the first experiments in The Netherlands to reclaim land from water.

Bed & Beemster is a complete 1950s experience. The wagon has been fully renovated and fortunately the owners retained many of the original details such as the exquisite woodwork. I would describe the decor as a fun blend of retro-hip, Scandinavian and bohemian.

This was the perfect place to stay with my family during a summer cycling trip to De Beemster and Waterland regions. We cycled from Haarlem and en route visited towns such as Edam, Monnickendam and Broek in Waterland. This is a beautiful area to visit. Bed & Beemster is near Purmerend and De Rijp.

When you are in Monnickendam, make time to visit the Waterlandmuseum de Speeltoren. It has the world’s oldest Carillon, still in its original state.  

Facilities

• First up: there is a dishwasher! A big plus for me. 😬
• Well-equipped kitchen – you can easily cook a full meal.
• Fridge
• Combi-microwave
• Kettle
• Coffee maker
• Tea, coffee, milk and sugar
• Barbeque facilities

Sleeping arrangements

• Accommodation for four people – a double bed in the caravan. Our son slept on a camping bed in the lounge.
• 20 metres from the wagon is a cosy second room (good for teenagers or adults – small kids might feel too far away from their parents) with a modern bathroom (shower, toilet and basin).
• Towels and various toiletries.

My biggest regret? We only booked one night! ☹️ We will definitely stay here again.

If you’re looking for more unusual places to stay in The Netherlands, how about a retired ocean liner in Rotterdam? It’s got a lot of bling, old-world charm and super comfy accommodation.

Where is it?

Bed & Beemster
Zuiddijk 10, 1461 EB
Zuidoostbeemster
E-mail: info@bed-beemster.nl

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