Escape to Twente: Luxurious Thatched Lodge with Microwave!
Escape to Twente: My Honest, Unfiltered, and Slightly Chaotic Review of Thatched Lodge Bliss (and a Microwave!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your average, sterile hotel review. This is the real deal, straight from the heart (and fueled by a very strong coffee this morning). We're talking about Escape to Twente: Luxurious Thatched Lodge with Microwave! – and yes, the microwave is a major player, as you'll soon find out.
(SEO stuff, just because I have to, even though I’d rather be napping: Escape to Twente, Thatched Lodge, Netherlands, Luxury Stay, Wheelchair Accessible, Spa, Pool, Restaurant, Romantic Getaway, Family Friendly, Pet-Friendly (well, almost… see below!), Twente Region)
First Impressions: The "Oh My God, It's Gorgeous" Moment
The drive in? Magnificent. Rolling hills, fields of green, the kind of scenery that makes you want to yodel (which, trust me, I resisted… mostly). Finding the place was a breeze, and as we pulled up, the thatched roof of our lodge hit me square in the face with a dose of fairytale charm. Seriously. It’s like something out of a storybook. I half expected a hobbit to pop out and offer me a cup of tea.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (and a Note for My Wheelchair-Bound Friends!)
Okay, let's get real. Accessibility is a VERY important thing. And here, it's…well, it's a mixed bag. The website says "Facilities for disabled guests," but I, being a klutz with a slight ankle injury, found the cobbled paths leading to the lodge a bit of a challenge. It's not outright bad, mind you, but if you're heavily reliant on a wheelchair, I'd call ahead and ask very specific questions about ramp access and the interior layout. The entrance looked promising, though, and I did spot an Elevator in the main building. My ankle was sore the whole trip, so I didn’t bother to go further than the lodge itself.
The Lodge Itself: Home Sweet (Thatched) Home
Once inside, the lodge was… breathtaking. Seriously. Non-smoking rooms, thankfully. The Air conditioning was a godsend (especially after hobbling around!). And the furniture was plush, the carpeting felt like walking on clouds and the blackout curtains? Glorious. I'm a big sleeper, and these things were awesome.
- Rooms: Clean, well-appointed with that signature "Dutch Cozy" vibe. A proper desk to work from, I hate when I'm forced to sit on the bed. Massive extra long bed (thank goodness, because I can roll a lot, but never off a bed!), I would have loved to spend some more time in it, it was amazing.
- Bathroom: The separate shower/bathtub situation was a win. The toiletries were decent, and there was even a hair dryer (essential for my mane).
- The Microwave! Okay, confession time: I'm obsessed with leftovers. And this lodge? Had a microwave. This is a game-changer. Leftover stroopwafels? Reheated perfection. Forget room service (which, admittedly, was available) – I had my own personal dining revolution happening in my lodge. Thank you, Escape to Twente, for understanding the importance of a good reheat.
Internet & Tech Woes (and Wins!)
The Internet was decent, but a bit spotty at times. They have Wi-Fi [free] but sometimes the little gremlins would take over. I would have loved to have a dedicated Internet access – LAN, but the WIFI was good enough. They have Internet access – wireless too, but it sometimes was bad in the lodge. I'm a bit of a tech-dependent person, so I felt a little stressed when it was bad, it was a big let down for me.
Dining & Drinking: Stroopwafels, Oh My!
The restaurants on-site were a definite highlight.
- Breakfast was a buffet style, and as a hungry person, that makes me happy.
- Asian cuisine in restaurant: I have to say, it was good.
- Poolside bar: The bartender was amazing and made me a great drink.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: The coffee was amazing.
- Happy hour. If you can find it, great food and good people.
- Desserts in restaurant: Amazing for a dessert person like me.
- Western cuisine in restaurant: The food was amazing.
I did, however, absolutely adore the coffee shop - perfect for a quick caffeine fix (and a sneaky stroopwafel purchase).
The Spa & Relaxation: Blissful Bubbles (and a Steamroom!)
The spa was a godsend. Seriously. After a long day of… well, existing… the massage melted away all my stress. Pure, unadulterated bliss. They had a Sauna and a Steamroom, both of which I thoroughly enjoyed. The Pool with view was pretty darn spectacular, too. I would have loved to get a Body scrub and a Body wrap, but I had to leave because of money. Also, I would have loved to try the Foot bath.
Health & Safety: Taking it Seriously (Which I Appreciated!)
I'm a stickler for cleanliness, especially these days. Escape to Twente seemed to be taking things seriously. I appreciated the Staff trained in safety protocol, the hand sanitizer everywhere, and the Daily disinfection in common areas. There was also Physical distancing of at least 1 meter going on. (Thank goodness).
For the Kids (and the Inner Child): Fun for Everyone!
Though I didn't have any little ones with me, the presence of Family/child friendly amenities was evident. They have Kids facilities and a babysitting service. I didn't notice a dedicated Kids meal, but there were plenty of options.
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
Escape to Twente nails the little things.
- Room service [24-hour]? Score!
- Daily housekeeping? Always a win.
- Safe dining setup? Great!
- Concierge? Helpful and friendly.
- Cash withdrawal? Very convenient.
- Luggage storage? They are amazing!
Things to Do: Beyond the Pool & Pasta
The Things to do section is a bit varied.
- The Fitness center was decent, but let's be honest, I spent most of my time eating stroopwafels.
- I didn't try any Body scrub or Body wrap.
Final Verdict: Would I Go Back? Hell, Yes!
Despite the few minor imperfections, Escape to Twente is a genuinely lovely place. The thatched roofs, the cozy lodges, the glorious spa, and the freedom to reheat whatever I want in my microwave… It’s a recipe for a truly relaxing getaway. It's perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone who just needs a little escape (and a really good coffee). Just call ahead if accessibility is a major concern, and don't forget your stroopwafels!
My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stroopwafels (deducting half a point for the slightly wonky Wi-Fi, and the slight lack of info on accessibility). Run, don't walk! (Unless you're me, and your ankle's a bit dodgy… then, hobble, but still go!)
Escape to Paradise: Stunning Rerik Beach Apartment!
Alright, buckle up buttercups! This ain't your average itinerary, this is a vibe check on a Dutch holiday park situation. Prepare for things to go sideways, because that's the whole damn point of travel, isn't it?
Project: Twente Tranquility (May Contain Mayhem)
Location: Thatched Lodge, Holiday Park, Hooge-Hexel, Twente, The Netherlands. (Address? Honestly, who needs an address when you're this close to a waffle iron? We’ll get there eventually.)
Dates: Let's say… the usual long weekend, to maximize the chaos. Friday – Sunday (give or take).
Participants: Just me, myself, and I. Might rope in the inner child. Always a mistake, but a fun one.
The Pre-Trip Panic (AKA, the Friday Fury)
Morning: Woke up late. Again. My cat, Mittens, gave me the look. The one that says, "You're leaving without me, aren't you?" Yes, Mittens, I bloody am. Cue the guilt spiral, followed by the mad dash to pack. Apparently, waterproof trousers are essential for a trip to the Netherlands. Who knew? (Me, eventually, after the first downpour).
Mid-day: Triumph! Luggage (mostly) packed. Snacks (extravagant selection) procured. Google Maps open, which looks like a spaghetti junction exploded across my phone screen. Driving directions: CHECK. Sanity: …Maybe a bit later.
Afternoon: The drive. Oh, the drive. Endless fields, windmills winking at me, the radio doing that thing where it plays the same three Dutch pop songs on repeat. Eventually, I saw signs for "Hexel" and squealed. Progress! The closer I got, the more I realized I had forgotten the most important thing: the camera.
Evening (ish): Arrived. The lodge. Well, it's… thatched. Very thatched. It feels like a hobbit house that got upgraded. The key was in a lockbox. Technology, I tell you. First impressions: surprisingly spacious, charmingly dated. The microwave? Tiny, but functional. The fridge? Already making questionable noises. Unpacked quickly and took a deep breath. I love Dutch, it has the perfect combination of consonants.
Saturday: Adventures in Windmill Country (And Questionable Cooking)
Morning: Breakfast disaster. Tried making pancakes in the tiny Dutch kitchen. Result: a sticky, burnt offering that resembled a small, charred swamp. Mittens's ghost is judging me. Quick recovery tactic: coffee. Dutch coffee. Stronger than my will to remember I've got a camera.
- Side note: The holiday park itself is adorable, if a bit… rustic. There's a playground where small children are screaming at a velocity I can only find impressive. The air smells like freshly cut grass and, oddly, the faint scent of disappointment. (Probably from my pancakes).
Mid-day: Cycled! Borrowed a bike. (Note to self: learn to ride a bike on uneven ground, because Dutch cycle paths laugh at smooth surfaces). Visited a real windmill. The energy of the place was palpable. I was staring up at the turning blades, imagining how the wind pushed them. I spent more time observing how the wind pushed me against my bike. Took a picture, and cursed my memory, again. That's my emotional reaction.
- Rant corner: Whoever decided to put cobblestones everywhere should be forced to cycle on them for a week. My backside is still screaming.
Afternoon: Back at the lodge. Attempted to braai (Dutch BBQ). The wind, however, decided to join the party. The sausages are now a shade of black that rivals my soul. Gave up and retreated indoors. Maybe tomorrow.
- Quirky Observation: Dutch people have a serious picnic game. I watched a family unpack a spread that could feed a small army, complete with tiny sandwiches, strategically placed cheese, and… I swear… tiny parasols for their tiny champagne flutes. I need to up my game.
Evening: Netflix is great, even without the camera. I made a terrible stew using the leftovers from the last meal. It might be better. The fire is going, and the sky is a masterpiece. The occasional raindrop taps against the thatched roof. Finally, finally, feeling a sense of peace.
Sunday: Farewell, Twente (And the Quest for a Souvenir)
Morning: The camera. I had to do something about it. I jumped to the car, and drive to the closest store. The sun was nice. The place was great. The only souvenir I managed to buy was a wooden clog keychain.
Mid-day: Packing. Again. The lodge, smelling of burnt things and regret, is surprisingly cozy. The tiny microwave did its job. I’m starting to miss the place already.
Opinionated moment: It’s these little places, these slightly rough-around-the-edges holiday parks, that steal your heart. The perfect pristine resorts? They’re boring. Give me the wonky door handle, the dodgy wifi, and the chance to burn pancakes any day.
Afternoon: The drive home. Reflections. The journey was great; the destination was better. The trip wasn't perfect. It was chaotic, messy, and sometimes a little bit disastrous. But it was mine.
Evening: Back home. Mittens, demanding cuddles. The laundry… endless. The memory card? Full. Twente, you glorious, windmill-filled, slightly-burnt-sausage-smelling place… I'll be back. And next time? I'm bringing the camera. And maybe learn to make pancakes. Or maybe not. Part of the charm, right?
Final thought: Travel isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about getting lost, making mistakes, and finding joy in the unexpected. And sometimes, it’s about eating badly-cooked sausages while laughing at yourself and the relentless Dutch weather.
Escape to Paradise: Sammy Majorca's Luxe Belvilla Awaits!
Escape to Twente: Your Luxurious Thatched Lodge & My Chaotic Thoughts on It!
Okay, so *Escape to Twente*… sounds fancy. What *is* it, exactly? Like, beyond the brochure speak?
Is it actually *luxurious* luxurious? Or brochure-lies luxurious?
Tell me about the kitchen. Because let's be real, that's where the *real* action happens sometimes. Spill the tea.
What about the location? Is it, you know, actually *Escape* to Twente? Or more like 'Escape to Slightly Quieter Twente'?
Any downsides? Be honest. Nobody's perfect, right?
The most important question: Would you go back?
