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#25367
Rural & childfriendly oasis of quiet, near airport, Amsterdam, The Hague (20-45min). Perfect for exploring! Looking for 2025!
House • Rijpwetering Netherlands
Exchange types accepted
Hospitality Description: There are few slots in a year that the home will be empty, I'll happily host you for those periods!
Statistics
Listed November 2023
Views 2042
General overview
Welcome to our cosy home!
It's in a rural area - a tipycal tiny village in Dutch countryside - yet only 20 mins away from Schiphol, 15 mins to Leiden, 25-40 mins to Amsterdam, The Hague, Delft or Katwijk beach.
We have two friendly cats (friendly to humans that is) - they will be staying at home when we're away. They are outside a lot and just need feeding and occasionally a hug :).
Please note, we are in process of redecorating the main and girl's bedrooms, therefore the pictures are not accurate anymore. There will be 2 double beds going forward.
The space
It's a smaller house, but has 3 bedrooms + upstairs in the attic area is another room; the area is used as my working space and storage area so not part of the listing. The sofa in the living room can also be pulled out to create a sleeping space for 1 or 2 ( slightly less comfortable when 2) people.
Please note, we are in process of redecorating the main and girl's bedrooms, therefore the pictures are not accurate anymore. There will be 2 double beds going forward instead of 1 double and 1 single that pulls out to double.
Guest access
The living room, kitchen and toilet are on the ground floor. 3 bedrooms and shower are on the 1st floor. There is a pull out stairs that takes you to attic- this is generally not used by guests.
Backyard is fenced, there is a trampoline and outdoor toys for younger kids (outside kitchen, small climbing frame). it is south facing and can be enjoyed for relaxation.
We also have a small allotment that is about 10 mins walk from home - I grow organic vegetables there. During warmer month I might ask for some assistance with watering. Of course you can help yourself and pick whatever grows there!
Unfortunately the home is not suitable for wheelchair users or other pets.
Notes
Our home is smoke free. My children are almost 5 and 10 so we have plenty of toys to accommodate younger guests. A travel cot and high chair can be provided if required.
Due to school-aged children there are limitations to availability and how long we can travel.
Interests for 2025: Europe
Interests for 2026: Japan and Hong Kong. but continue to be open to EU destinations
Features
Washer
Clothes dryer
Oven
Microwave
Coffee machine
Fridge
Iron
Hair dryer
Heating
TV
WiFi
High Speed Internet
Smoke alarms
Bed sheets
Towels
Workspace
Toys
BBQ
Garden / yard
Bikes
Travel Styles
Weekend
Budget
Family
Foodie
Relaxing
Eco
Luxury
City
Village
Mountains
Beach
Culture
Hiking
Last minute
Good public transport
House rules
Unsuitable for infants under 2
Suitable for children ages 2-12
Pets not allowed
No smoking
Allergens
Dog free
Smoke free
Dates of Availability
Click on availability periods to see exchange types and descriptions.
Available
Neighbourhood
Nestled within a tapestry of fields, canals, and windmills, Rijpwetering is a charming and historic village. It offers tranquility, where walking and cycling routes wind through picturesque landscapes. As spring unfolds, the region transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, showcasing tulip fields that are part of the renowned "Bollenstreek," the Dutch heartland of tulip cultivation.
In the summer, the enchantment continues as you have the opportunity to rent a small boat ("sloep") to navigate the waters and explore the area.
Within a mere half-hour radius, the allure of iconic tourist hotspots such as Amsterdam and The Hague awaits, but let me share a well-kept secret with you – make sure to explore Leiden. This vibrant city is home to the oldest university in the Netherlands, and its historic botanical garden whispers tales of centuries past. Delight in the wonders of famous museums like Naturalis and Lakenhal, indulge in delectable dining experiences, savor fabulous views, and immerse yourself in captivating events throughout the seasons.
From the magic of a floating ice-skating rink and a quaint old-style Christmas market in winter to the lively "life action" Rembrandt weekend in the warmth of summer, Leiden offers a kaleidoscope of experiences.
Leiden is a haven for museum enthusiasts, to name just a few:
- Naturalis, a prominent natural history museum, unveils the wonders of the natural world, featuring awe-inspiring exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to biodiversity.
- Space Expo in Katwijk (a short drive away) offers an enthralling journey into the cosmos with interactive displays and captivating insights into space exploration.
- Lakenhal Museum, steeped in history, showcases Dutch masterpieces and contemporary art, providing a visual feast for art connoisseurs.
- The Museum of Antiquities takes visitors on a captivating voyage through ancient civilizations, boasting an impressive collection of artefacts. - For a unique fusion of history and nature, Sieboldhuis, coupled with the enchanting Hortus Botanicus, offers a delightful blend of Japanese treasures and botanical wonders.
- Valk Mill, where the historic windmill provides a glimpse into the Dutch milling tradition, creating a comprehensive and enriching cultural mosaic in the heart of Leiden.
Getting to my home
Netherlands is a tiny country and distances are short. If flying in, it takes about 20 mins by car from Schiphol. if you arrive by train to Amsterdam central, it's about 45 mins drive. Alternatively public transport can be taken - nearest train station is in Leiden, from there you can take a bus. The busstop is a 2 minute walk from home. Cycling is of course also possible, depending on speed 30-60 mins from Leiden.
Nearest airport
Schiphol, 20mins drive or about 1-1,5hr by public transport
Getting around
Rijpwetering is a tiny village so there is no supermarket. However, there is a "driving shop" called 'Melkboer' who comes to the street multiple times a week and is good for all basics. Nearest supermarket and some shops are in Roelofarendsveen, Leiderdorp or Leiden. You can also use online grocery delivery service from main supermarkets.
Rijpwetering does have 3 restaurants - de Vergulde Vos for example is over 400 years old establishment! - all within 10 mins walking distance. Parking is on the street and free. A little drive away (around 15mins) there is a Green Michelin star restaurant - de Dyck in Woubrugge.
Map of Approximate Location
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People Like Us Local Guide
I can give all the ins and outs of visiting the area with kids under 12y - places to see, places to avoid, where to eat, best museums etc. I might even join you with my mini-crew!
Feedback
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Elena's home was in a lovely location, a quiet village area but with waterways around and a few restaurants. It was in a great location for us to be able to visit Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Haarlem and Utrecht and then we drove to a number of beaches and lakes on our other days. Elena has plenty of children's toys which our little ones loved and garden toys + trampoline too. -
The house of Elena and her family is very welcoming and typical of Dutch houses. Its location is ideal for visiting Leiden or Amsterdam. For those who have a vehicle, I recommend taking a day trip to Haarlem and also enjoying a stroll on the island of Marken. We have lots of lovely memories of our stay, thank you Elena!
Premium
Elena
** Seeking snow end of Feb '25 + EU destinations beyond**
Mom of 2 wonderful children (Apr '12 and Nov '19). Originally from Ukraine, but raised in the Netherlands and lived in Great Britain for a while. My husband works in London and kids speak English at home, so we consider ourselves global citizens 😀. I work for a life science company, and study Nutrition part-time. We enjoy visiting museums, going to the beach and walks in the local parks/nature areas. We try to be a little more eco-conscious in our surroundings as well, so prefer to travel by train when possible.
We would love to explore all types of destinations with our little family, so please don't feel limited by the 'desired destinations' and just get in touch!
We can travel for a weekend away to destinations closer, otherwise we are bound to the Dutch school holiday schedule. Only looking for EU this morning, actively seeking an exchange in Japan and Hong Kong in 2026
Travelling group
Desired Destinations
Open to any destination
Dates flexible
"Ideally a week or more over summer or other school holidays"
Dates flexible
"Strong preference for (end of) winter period"
Dates flexible
"Have to work around school holidays but interested in shorter stays so moreflexibility. Interested all year round. Ideally by public transport from NL."
Dates flexible
"All year round for short stays, have to work around school holidays in NL though. Keen on city trips that can be reached by train from NL"
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
Dates flexible
"Spring or summer 2026. Looking for multiple locations to do 3-4 week exploration"
Dates flexible
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