4x the nicest B&Bs in Groningen

Hidden away in one of the forty centuries-old almshouses in the heart of Groningen is B&B Sint Anthony Gasthuis. Here you do not step into just any accommodation; rather, it is a journey through time with a contemporary twist. As a national monument dating from 1517, this is the only hofje in the Netherlands where you can actually stay overnight. With Groningen Station within walking distance and an underground car park next door, this bed and breakfast is also very easy to reach.

Although you might expect that breakfast is a matter of course at a B&B, this is not the case at Sint Anthony Gasthuis. But oh well, what does it matter? You can effortlessly fry a tasty egg in your own kitchen. Or even more fun: head out! A stone's throw away is the beating heart of the city with the most cosy breakfast spots within easy reach. My tip? Go to Luhu. This café is run by deaf people. So ordering is done in sign language, by pointing or writing it down. A unique experience to start your day!

Built on the former sugar factory site in Groningen, Bamboo Lodge is the place for an extraordinary bed and breakfast. Here, you almost forget that you are in the north of our little chilly country and a five-minute bike ride from the city. The tropical plants and bohemian atmospheres make this place an idyllic retreat for any nature lover. Greet the curious chickens and peacocks that roam freely on the grounds, or get ready for a yoga class.

This green paradise has thirteen accommodations, each with a unique style. Do you choose 'Sunrise'? Then you will sleep in a wooden cottage with large windows, surrounded by tropical plants. Do you sleep in the 'Tipi'? Count on a cosily decorated tent with lots of plants for the ultimate outdoor experience. Keep in mind that Bamboo Lodge is only open between April and the end of October.

Do you know what makes Bamboo Lodge extra cool? Everything you see is made from recycled materials. Here, they strive to live as self-sufficiently as possible. This includes heating on wood fires and using solar energy for electricity.

We stay for a while in the historical atmosphere at Guesthouse Vannacht. This B&B, right in the city centre, from 1850, actually has a special feature: the smallest door in Groningen. Nowadays it has no function, but in earlier times the space behind it was in use. Namely, it served as a coal shed and had a connection to the room next door. In that room, there was a hatch in the wall through which the coal was scooped in, to be used inside.

Barbara, the owner of Guesthouse Vannacht, is a true globetrotter. After spending many nights in hostels, B&Bs and guesthouses all over the world, she started dreaming about her own B&B. And voilà! Guesthouse Vannacht was born.

In picturesque Winsum, just above Groningen, you will find B&B d'Olle Goof. A characteristic accommodation in a former farmhouse. Here, you have a choice of three unique rooms where many of the authentic farm elements have been preserved. This hidden gem has only been open for six months, but already seems to be a favourite of many!

The location of this little house is also ideal for the keen walkers among us. Indeed, it is located at the start of the Pieterpad. A perfect place to stay if you want to discover the first two stages of this walking route.

Fun fact: the B&B's name comes from owner Attie's dog, a sweet labrador that likes to be petted.