On the Dutch Coast

Most people think of Amsterdam when they’re booking a break to The Netherlands, but the Frisian Islands just north shouldn't be overlooked. Travel to the village of De Cocksdorp for freshly-baked goods, restaurants, a steakhouse, and fast food joint – which you’ll find no more than a two-minute walk away from this welcoming home on Kikkerstraat. Aesthetically pleasing in subtle shades of cream, warm wood elements, and pops of colours, the inside is inviting, and with the addition of plenty of light, creates the ideal atmosphere for curling up in the one-seater with a book. As you cosy up, rest your stroopwafel on the rim of your coffee cup to let the syrup get properly gooey before tucking in – be warned though, it takes a lot of restraint not to eat the whole thing the instant it comes out of the packet. Start a puzzle of the tulip farms of The Netherlands on the kitchen table, watch movies together, play boardgames on the lounge floor, and enjoy meals alfresco.

A thirteen-minute walk will get you to a shop where you can rent bicycles to take on the cycling trials around the area. Or you can simply explore the rich history of this 19th century town on two wheels as you check out the lighthouse, many churches, and cycle to the De Slufter nature reserve. There’s also golfing, the beach, and visits to the nearby towns of Den Burg and De Kroon.

Home truths:
*Parking here can be tricky, so we recommend sticking to the easily accessible public transport where possible – though we think the best way to see the region is by bicycle
*Your host can provide a cot and high chair for free upon request
*This home is spread over two floors, with no internal lift
*You'll have your own private entrance here
*Though there isn't a dedicated desk here, the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace