Hotel Plantage Rococo, Velsen-Zuid

Not for nothing Plantation country estate one of our favorite addresses below (or above) Amsterdam. This is how we took in the spot Little Escapes book and we regularly sing praises about the eco-restaurant here on BartsBoekje.com. And there's more: the owners opened Hotel Plantage Rococo by Buitenplaats – and of course that can only be good news.

An enormous love for history and authenticity is paramount. You feel and see that, that casual yet styled, that friendly yet aristocratic... That starts when you arrive at the enormous stately building in the middle of the greenery. You park near the horses, then take a walk, turn the corner and BAM! Plantage Rococo, eco-restaurant, café and hotel by Buitenplaats Plantage, in your face.

What to do, what to do? Besides looking your eyes out for your entire visit? Early birds in tha Rococo building?Catch the sunrise with an organic espresso from Plantage's own kitchen (which is good, we already knew that). Start the day with a walk in the wild, fairytale-like backyard and then sit down to the heavenly breakfast table. Or take a picnic basket back into the garden, also nice.

Location, location, location

Below or above Amsterdam, depending on how you look at it, you will find this pearl about 20 minutes by car from Amsterdam (West). The good thing is that it doesn't in the middle of nowhere is located but you still have the charms of the outdoors. This handsome estate is part of a group of estates on the edge of the former Wijkermeer in the municipality of Velsen. Haarlem around the corner, the beach too. Location Location Location!

The eye wants something too

A big touch of boho, a huge dose of creativity, it je ne sais quoi of times gone by that hangs in the air and a play of colors that looks casual but smells of a well-thought-out, just-right concept. Past glory and new style goneterribly good at the beautifully historic Waterland estate (an 18th century estate). Sink into old leather chairs like you get stuck in your usual brown favorite pub and Plantage wouldn't be Plantage if there wasn't (organic) rock & roll sauce came over the whole place: there are stately and massive elements, lots of leather, large plants and art on the walls.

Keffers & Kroost

Or this place kid proof is? Yes, more than even. Enough space for the little ones to play both indoors and in the garden. Fill the picnic basket and go go go. There are different room types where you can enjoy a wonderful stay with the whole family. And don't be in a cage with each other; there is enough space for everyone. We also think it is just as important for mom and dad. You can leave your yapper at home this time. And we understand that all too well, in a place like this you really don't feel like chasing your four-legged friend all day long.

Plantation Rococo, located in Velsen-south, do yourself a favor and go.