Escape to Paradise: Luxurious Apeldoorn Chalet with Sauna & Spa!
Escape to Paradise: An Apeldoorn Chalet That Almost Broke Me (in the Best Way Possible!) - A Review That Doesn't Lie
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this "review" of the "Escape to Paradise: Luxurious Apeldoorn Chalet with Sauna & Spa!" ain't your average, sanitized travel blog drivel. I'm talking raw emotion, real-life struggles with the in-chalet internet (more on that later!), and a serious, possibly unhealthy, obsession with their spa. Let's dive in, shall we?
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The Arrival: Pretentious Expectations vs. Humbling Reality
First impressions? The photos on the website? Stunning. The reality as I pulled up? Let's just say my slightly jaded, Instagram-obsessed self was cautiously optimistic. I'd booked this "Escape to Paradise" to, you know, escape. From work, from the endless cycle of laundry, from… well, from myself, to be honest. The chalet, nestled in the beautiful Apeldoorn area, did look impressive, all sleek lines and promising views.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, Bless Their Hearts
Now, I'm not in a wheelchair, but I always appreciate places that try. The website claimed Wheelchair Accessible, and while the main areas were generally navigable with an elevator (phew!), the actual "accessible" rooms were… a bit of a compromise. There was a wider doorway, and the Facilities for disabled guests were… present. But the devil's always in the details, right? Like, the bathroom was a little cramped, and I doubt a seriously wheelchair-bound person would have felt totally at ease. Still, points for effort! Elevator was a lifesaver with all my luggage.
The Internet Abyss & Other Tech Troubles
Ah, yes. The bane of the modern traveler: Internet. They boast Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and even Internet [LAN]! Technically true. But the Wi-Fi in my room? Let's just say it had the personality of a sloth on tranquilizers. I spent a good hour wrestling with it, finally giving up and, in a fit of pure frustration, resorted to tethering to my phone (thank god for roaming!). It wasn't all doom and gloom though! The Complimentary tea helped me while I waited for the website to load.
The Spa: Where My Troubles Melted Away (Literally)
Okay, I need to stop right here and gush. The Spa. Oh. My. God. This is where Escape to Paradise truly earned its name. They call it a "luxurious" spa with Sauna, Spa, Steamroom and a Pool with view. This is an understatement. It was an oasis of pure, utter bliss. The Sauna was hot, the Steamroom was steamy, the Pool with view? Chef's kiss. I spent a scandalous amount of time in that pool, gazing out at the gorgeous scenery (I think I saw a deer! Maybe. Possibly.) I also indulged in a Massage. The therapist could have massaged my feet with a rusty spoon and I still would have died from pleasure. It was that good. The Spa/sauna was my everyday routine and I did not have time to get bored from it.
The entire experience was so good, I kinda forgot what I was escaping from. And the best thing about the spa? Bathrobes everywhere. They were my uniform. I lived in one for days.
(Emotional Rating: Overwhelmingly Positive, bordering on life-altering. I may have lost my soul in a puddle of lavender oil.)
Cleanliness & Safety: They Take This Seriously (Thank Goodness)
Look, let's be honest, in these pandemic times, cleanliness is everything. And Escape to Paradise? They're on it. The Anti-viral cleaning products were definitely working, the whole place sparkled, and the staff seemed genuinely committed to making you feel safe. They had all the usual stuff: the Hand sanitizer, the Masks, the Daily disinfection in common areas.
I appreciated the Rooms sanitized between stays. I also appreciated having Room sanitization opt-out available for those that would prefer not to have it. They seemed to follow all the protocols listed, and Staff trained in safety protocol.
Dining & Drinking: Fueling the Relaxation & My Appetite!
Now, for the food. They offered a whole host of options! From the Breakfast [buffet], with scrambled eggs and some sad-looking sausages, to the A la carte in restaurant, and the Poolside bar where I definitely may have had one (or three) too many Aperol Spritzes. The Asian breakfast was fantastic, especially after a swim. The Coffee shop was great for a quick pick-me-up. I was also glad that there were Vegetarian restaurants around the area.
The Room service [24-hour] was a godsend at 3 am when I was struck with a sudden craving for something savory. I also really appreciated the Bottle of water in the room.
(Minor Annoyance: The "International Cuisine" felt a little…generic. Stick to the local stuff!
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things Make a Difference
They nailed the "little things." Daily housekeeping, a super helpful Concierge, and the thoughtful touch of Free bottled water. They had a Gift/souvenir shop (I bought everything). I also appreciated the Ironing service, because, you know, I wanted to look somewhat presentable. They also had a Car park [free of charge] and a Car power charging station.
For the Kids & Family: Probably Awesome, I'm Not a Parent
Look, I'm a lonely cat-lady. I have zero experience with tiny humans. But the Family/child friendly vibe was undeniable. I saw kids splashing in the pool, and heard laughter that didn't sound staged. They had Babysitting service available, which seems like, you know, a good thing.
Getting Around:
They provided Airport transfer, Taxi service and other Getting around.
In-Room Awesomeness:
Air conditioning (thank god), a Coffee/tea maker (essential), a Minibar (tempting), a Safe box (for hiding my escape fund), and the glorious Soundproofing. The Bed was comfortable. The Additional toilet, the Bathtub, the Separate shower/bathtub, the Hair dryer, the Toiletries, the Towels, (all fantastic) and best of all the Free Wi-Fi. They also have a Window that opens, the Reading light, and the Smoke detector.
(Quirky Observation: I’m pretty sure someone was trying to open my door in the middle of the night, but since I had the deadbolt and chain locked, I was okay).
Final Verdict:
Would I go back? Absolutely. Despite the occasional technological hiccup and the slightly generic international cuisine, Escape to Paradise delivered everything it promised… and then some. It’s the kind of place that makes you forget your worries and sink into a state of pure, unadulterated relaxation. The spa alone is worth the price of admission. Just, you know, maybe bring a book for when the internet goes rogue.
Belgian Farmhouse Paradise: Pool, Charm & Waimes Await!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this itinerary for a week in a Nice chalet with an outdoor sauna and spa in Apeldoorn, Netherlands? It's about to get real. Forget those perfectly-edited travel blogs – this is the raw, unfiltered truth, complete with questionable decisions, existential crises, and the undeniable magic of a well-placed stroopwafel.
Before We Even Leave (The Pre-Trip Panic)
- The Pre-Trip Mental Breakdown: Packing. The word itself sends shivers down my spine. Three suitcases deep, searching for some winter appropriate clothes. The chalet is in the Netherlands, it might as well be Antarctica.
- Borderline Existential Crisis: "What am I doing with my life? Am I making the most of this precious existence? Will I ever master the art of the perfect poached egg?" (Spoiler: No.)
- Grocery Shopping Disaster: Realized I'd forgotten the snacks. It's a tragedy. The emergency chocolate stash.
Day 1: Arrival and Sauna Bliss (and a Side of Mild Disappointment)
- The Arrival Drama: Landing in Amsterdam, the air is crisp, filled with that delightful European smell of exhaust fumes and… well, something indefinable. Train to Apeldoorn… smooth sailing.
- The Chalet Reveal: Okay, so the photos… they lied. Slightly. The "Nice" is… well, it's definitely a chalet. Charming in its own way, I suppose. The outdoor sauna, though? Pure, unadulterated gloriousness. The spa? TBD - but optimistic…
- Sauna Time! (And a Moment of Pure Bliss): First session! I'm not a "sauna person," but this… this is different. The woodsy scent, the heat slowly melting away all the stress, the view of the snow-dusted trees. Seriously, guys, I could live here. Almost sobbed with happiness.
- The Food Fiasco: Attempted a simple dinner. Pasta. Managed to burn the garlic. Ate it anyway.
Day 2: Bikes, Beauty, and the Mystery of the Windmills
- Bike Adventure (And Mild Near-Death Experience): Armed with a map, a questionable sense of direction, and a rented bike, I set out to explore Apeldoorn and De Hoge Veluwe National Park. Cycling is not my forte. Narrowly avoided being flattened by a rogue e-bike.
- De Hoge Veluwe: Muse, Man, and the Van Gogh Connection: That park? Utterly stunning! The Kröller-Müller Museum has a Van Gogh collection that made me question my entire artistic sensibility. Beautiful, but can art really be so sad?
- Windmill Wonder & Wander: Found a quaint village with a working windmill. It looked straight out of a fairytale. Took a thousand pictures and nearly walked into a ditch.
- Dinner: The Stroopwafel Revelation: Back in Apeldoorn. Found a lovely place for dinner. Ate way too many Stroopwafels.
- Spa Time! (And a Moment of Pure Disappointment). As it turns out, the spa is no good (the jets don't work).
Day 3: Royal Intrigue and Pancake Pandemonium (and an Embarrassing Incident)
- Paleis Het Loo: Fit for a King (Maybe Not This King): Visited the former royal palace. Impressive. The history is fascinating, but honestly? I got distracted by wondering if the queen ever stubbed her toe.
- Pancake Panic: Decided to attempt pancakes. Epic fail. Ended up eating half-burnt, lumpy concoctions while silently judging myself.
- The Embarrassing Incident: While struggling with public transport I lost my balance and nearly tripped over a very well-dressed local. Mortified!
- Saturdays, Coffee, and a new book: In need of a pick me up. Found a lovely place to have a coffee and a read.
Day 4: Nature, Naps, and the Existential Angst of the Dutch Landscape
- Wandering in the woods - Feeling a little lost: Another day in the national park. This time I was looking for the peace of mind that comes from the Dutch landscape.
- The Nap of Despair: Decided to take a nap. Woke up feeling even more tired. Blamed the air.
- Contemplating Gouda: Found myself staring at a block of Gouda at the local shop. Am I happy? Do I deserve this life? Is cheese the answer? (Spoiler: Possibly.)
- Sauna and Stroopwafel Ritual: back to the sauna, this time I feel ready for the deep breaths. It's a ritual.
Day 5: Water Fun and the Dutch Drinking Debacle
- Swimming Pool! Found a local pool.
- Dutch Drinking Debacle: Tried to order coffee at a café, but maybe I ordered something else. I don't remember much.
- Back to the Chalet - Sauna and reflection: Trying to make the best of the rest of the holiday. Sauna, bath, and reflection.
Day 6: The Grand Finale (and the Lingering Scent of Saunas)
- Last Morning Sauna: One last glorious sauna session. The best part of the trip
- Packing (Again): The dreaded task.
- Departure: The airport, the plane, the long trip home.
Post-Trip Reflections:
- The Verdict: Apeldoorn? A mixed bag of quirky charm, questionable culinary skills, and moments of pure, unadulterated bliss (mostly in the sauna). Worth it? Absolutely.
- Things I Learned: I still can't ride a bike properly but I've mastered the art of eating Stroopwafels. And maybe, just maybe, I'm starting to figure out this whole "life" thing.
- Final Thought: I really, really need a holiday from this holiday.
Escape to Paradise: Luxurious Apeldoorn Chalet with Sauna & Spa! ... Or is it? (Let's be Real)
Okay, so "Luxurious Chalet with Sauna & Spa" – Sounds amazing! But what's *actually* luxurious? Like, does it come with a butler named Jeeves who makes pancakes and says "Right you are, guv'nah?"
Alright, let's temper expectations *just* a smidge. No Jeeves. No pancake-making butler (sad face). And frankly, thank goodness, because I’d probably have a panic attack keeping up with him. But, the chalet *is* pretty darn fancy. Think: a ridiculously comfy king-sized bed that swallowed me whole (in the best way possible) after too much wine. A ridiculously big, and I mean HUGE, tub. And the sauna? Oh, the sauna. I swear, I spent half my stay in there, sweating out all the stresses of… well, everything.
It's luxurious in the way that it genuinely allows you to *relax*. The decor is all fancy wood and cozy throws; think 'Nordic Chic' meets 'Cozy Cabin'. It's more "Do-it-yourself relaxation" than "Over-the-top-I-need-a-valet". But trust me, the 'DIY' part is *perfectly* fine with me. I'm guessing the owners are just as chill as the place feels.
Oh, and about the pancakes… you're on your own. There is a fully equipped kitchen so no one is stopping you from making pancakes, just saying.
The Sauna – Is it any good? I've had some sauna experiences that felt like being trapped in a damp, smelly sock.
Okay. So, this is where I do a little happy dance. Forget the damp, smelly sock sauna horrors of the past. This sauna is… *amazing*. Seriously. It's spacious, well-maintained, and gets *blisteringly hot*. I'm talking, 'leave-your-worries-on-the-outside-door' hot. I maybe, *possibly*, fell asleep in it once. Don't judge. I was relaxed. Very, very relaxed.
The only imperfection (and I'm really grasping at straws here) is that it took me longer than I'd like to admit to figure out how to get the temperature *just right*. The instructions weren't exactly idiot-proof, but, once mastered, it was sauna heaven. Prepare to have your skin all pink and glowing and feel like a melted human being. In the best way possible, of course!
Spa, Spa, Spa! What's the deal? Is it a mini-spa with a massage? Or something more?
Right, so the "Spa" part. Let's be clear: it’s not a full-blown spa experience with masseuses and cucumber water (although, I *did* bring my own cucumber water, thank you very much). The "spa" aspect is more about bringing the spa *to you.*
It includes the sauna, but more importantly, it has a *fantastic* jacuzzi tub. Picture this: You're submerged in bubbles, the bubbles are dancing and glowing and the jets are massaging every aching part of your body. My advice? Bring bath bombs. Make sure to bring several. And maybe a waterproof speaker for some chill tunes. I may have spent a couple of hours floating in the tub listening to 80s power ballads. Don't judge again!
It's not a massage, but between the sauna and the jacuzzi, your body will be very, very happy. Consider bringing your own aromatherapy oils, that part is up to you. I brought lavender and eucalyptus; pure bliss.
Apeldoorn – Sounds like a place. What's there to *do* besides sweat in a sauna and soak in a tub (tempting as those sound)?
Okay, you gotta leave the chalet eventually, even if it's just to restock the snacks (priorities!). Apeldoorn is pretty darn charming. Think fairytale vibes, especially if you want to see the Paleis Het Loo (the royal palace). The palace is *stunning* – beautiful gardens, grand architecture, the works. I'm not normally into historical stuff, but I actually really enjoyed it.
There are plenty of lovely restaurants and cafes for meals, and don’t forget the cycling! Apeldoorn is in a beautiful, bike-friendly area and my god, do the locals love to cycle! Make sure you pack your comfy shoes. And if you *really* feel like it, there's the Apenheul Primate Park, which is cool, if you're into monkeys flinging poop (I'm not kidding.).
But honestly? I was perfectly happy just chilling at the chalet. The best part? No one can judge you. You are in your own bubble, your own palace.
Is it family-friendly? I have small children who are basically tiny, highly-destructive tornadoes.
Hmm… tricky question. The place is beautiful, right? And a tiny tornado could *technically* enjoy it. But… honestly? I’d probably leave the tiny tornadoes at home (or at least, book another chalet for the *actual* fun).
It's more suited for a relaxing getaway with adults. The luxurious vibe might be slightly… challenged… by sticky fingers and the potential for a full-scale jacuzzi flood. But then again, your vacation, your rules. Just remember the cleaning fee. Just kidding. I mean, not really, it's a nice place...
But you should be able to make some awesome memories that will last forever, even if they're all a little messy
Okay, give it to me straight: Is it worth the money?
Alright, financial talk. Here's the deal: it's not exactly a budget backpacker's paradise. It's an investment in relaxation, people. If you're the type who values a genuinely peaceful escape, a chance to recharge, and a little bit of luxury – then YES, it's worth it. You get the privacy and the space to totally unwind and feel like you're escaping the real world for a minute or two.
I walked away feeling like a new version of myself, that's priceless, right? Just be prepared to spend money on some good food/wine. In the end though, it's an investment in your sanity (and seriously, in this day and age, who doesn't need that?). Consider it a treat yourself, your spirit will thank you!
Any Pro-tips or Things I Wish I'd Known Beforehand? Spill the Tea!
Okay, my wisdom to you:
- Bring Snacks: Seriously. Like, a *mountain* of snacks. Because once you're ensconced in that chaletFind That HotelNice chalet with outdoor sauna and spa Apeldoorn NetherlandsNice chalet with outdoor sauna and spa Apeldoorn Netherlands
