Het Kleine Paradijs | waking up on the water in Friesland

Blog Het Kleine Paradijs | waking up on the water in Friesland

Het Kleine Paradijs | waking up on the water in Friesland

→ This article was written in collaboration with Het Kleine Paradijs. We got to stay here for free, in exchange for content. Of course you can read our own opinion here!

This green paradise nestled in central Friesland truly lives up to its name. Its verdant foliage and tranquil pathways amidst its secluded locale evoke a sense of serenity. Moreover, the distinctive accommodations available for overnight stays enhance the experience, ranging from enchanting tree houses to a charming ark, and from quaint writers' huts to a picturesque red chapel.

Set amidst the natural beauty of Súdwest Fryslân, Het Kleine Paradijs exudes an aura of seclusion. Located approximately a 10-minute drive from the town of Easterein – also known as Oosterend – this retreat may be commonplace for all Frisians, yet for us ‘Randstad’ girls, the long journey through the expansive polder landscape felt like an adventure. However, it undeniably imparted a sense of vacation bliss upon arrival.

The secret garden

As we pulled into the courtyard, we were warmly welcomed by Mathijs, the owner. Arriving punctually and finding ourselves the sole guests at the time, we were treated to a comprehensive tour of the verdant surroundings – an experience reminiscent of stumbling upon a hidden garden. Abundant blooms, lush foliage, secluded corners, and winding pathways created an atmosphere of mystery and charm. With pride, Mathijs shared his future aspirations for the place, along with the story of its inception through crowdfunding. Graciously, he then guided us through each unique accommodation, allowing us a glimpse into their individual charm.

Enchanting accommodations straight from a fairytale

When the invitation came to spend the night, we were faced with a delightful dilemma: each lodging option offered a truly unique sleeping experience. Upon arrival, the towering treehouses immediately captured our attention, offering breathtaking views of the Frisian landscape from their lofty perches. For those preferring to keep their feet a bit closer to the ground, the cozy holy house, the rustic writer’s hut, and the charming red chapel nestled amidst the verdant greenery beckoned. The latter, resembling a genuine chapel, boasts a beautiful wooden floor and ceiling, stained glass windows, and even a box bed!

While most cabins cater to couples, there are options available for larger groups as well. The two-story cabinet comfortably accommodates up to 10 people! And for those seeking to host an even grander affair, the entire site can be rented out, accommodating up to 22 guests. Imagine the joy of embarking on a fairytale adventure in Friesland with your loved ones or friends!

Slumbering on a floating ark

While our affection for treehouses runs deep, this time we opted for something truly unique. How often does one have the opportunity to spend the night on a raft? Tucked away from the main area, the ark floats peacefully on the gentle waters of the Frisian landscape, offering unparalleled privacy for those seeking solace. Yet, the allure of the camping raft extends beyond mere seclusion.

On the exterior deck, one can revel in the picturesque surroundings – from grazing farm animals in the meadows to the melodious chirping of birds, and even the captivating hues of the setting sun (though equally stunning vistas are found throughout the rest of the site!).

Inside, the space is snug yet inviting, boasting just enough room for a comfortable double bed, two chairs, a kettle, essential crockery, and an electric heater for cooler evenings. Who needs more than these simple comforts for a truly memorable experience? Additional facilities are conveniently located in a shared common room, but more on that in a moment.

Explore Friesland by water

Adjacent to the ark awaits a Canadian canoe, beckoning you to embark on a watery adventure. Navigate the serene waters and set course for charming towns like Bolsward or Sneek, immersing yourself in the picturesque scenery along the way. But what’s perhaps even more thrilling is the opportunity to leisurely drift aboard the raft itself! While some may find this prospect exhilarating, we personally found it just a tad too adventurous. A humorous anecdote: had it not been for the canoe, my drone would have met an untimely demise. Thank you for the timely rescue! 😉

Facilities

At Het Kleine Paradijs, you’ll discover a delightful blend of unique overnight accommodations and a camping experience. While the lodgings themselves offer only essential amenities, the beginning of the site reveals a well-appointed sanitary facility and a cozy recreation room. Here, you’ll find an expansive kitchen, fully equipped for your culinary endeavors, along with a small shop stocked with essential provisions available for purchase on-site. It’s also a wonderful spot to mingle with fellow holidaymakers; we enjoyed a delightful game night with a father and son during our stay! And for the ultimate indulgence, you can enhance your experience with access to an electric barbecue, sauna, and hot tub – ensuring your stay is nothing short of unforgettable.

The following day: awakening on water

Following an evening filled with games and a restful night’s sleep, we were gently roused by the pitter-patter of raindrops on our roof. Let me tell you, there’s something truly magical about waking up on the water, even amidst a gentle rainfall. While our time at Het Kleine Paradijs was drawing to a close, for those with more flexibility, there’s still plenty to explore in Friesland – even when the weather isn’t cooperating. Beyond Bolsward and Sneek, nearby towns like Franeker and Leeuwarden beckon with their own unique charm.