Owner Heidi receives me enthusiastically. Together we walk onto the small-scale campsite, where it soon becomes clear why so many guests return here every year.
The origin of mini-camping Le Silence
Le Silence has existed for some time, but only really got its current character when Heidi and Roy, the owners, settled here some thirteen years ago. "There was already a campsite then," says Heidi. "Over the years, we have made the campground all our own to what it is today."
Today Le Silence is a mini-camping with sixteen camping spots. The campsite is open from Easter until the end of September. Guests can stay for up to a month. "That's how we keep the circulation going, which keeps it fresh," says Le Silence.
The campsite attracts a diverse crowd. "We see campers, tents, rooftents and tractor tents. And the guests literally come from all over the world: French, Germans, Swiss, Icelanders, Italians, English."
Many visitors combine their stay with a visit to the Efteling. "That's always fun. Those guests often bring enormous enthusiasm, which contributes to the nice atmosphere on the campsite."
Small-scale camping in Brabant with fine facilities
Although Le Silence is deliberately small, guests lack nothing. Right next to the camping field is a small pond with sitting areas and a jeu-de-boules court. The sanitary facilities are heated and at the reception desk you will find a mini library and information leaflets about the area.
Also outside the campsite is enjoyment. "Nearby are De Zwammenberg and 't Maoske for a bite to eat and a drink," tips Heidi. "Our neighbors, the Annahoeve, have a farm store. And new this year is a collaboration with Bakker Bart where guests can order lunch that is then simply delivered to the campsite."
Why this place in De Moer is so special
Those who look around understand immediately. "You see so much vastness and greenery here," says Heidi. "The peace is really palpable. You are completely away from the hustle and bustle here, but at the same time larger cities and attractions like the Efteling are close by."
Nature gets all the space it needs here. The grass on the camping field stays deliberately long. "We mow paths through the high grass towards the waterhole and the jeu-de-boules court. That way nature stays pure."
That approach is paying off. "Guests tell us that they sometimes see special birds here, for example. They come off to the flowers and high grass on the campsite."
Spend the night at Le Silence: rural, quiet and relaxed
What kind of feeling Heidi wants to give her guests? "Rest. Relaxation. The feeling that for a moment you are completely absorbed in rural life."
Behind the camping meadow the cows of the Annahoeve walk by. "Guests always find that amazing and soothing to see," says Le Silence.
The audience consists largely of people over 50 who come for biking and hiking, but also families and couples who visit the Efteling and then want to relax on a quiet campsite in Brabant.
Some of the guests return annually. "That is so nice, then you do build a bond," says Heidi. "When you see each other every year you do ask how the grandchildren are doing, for example." At the reception desk hangs a bulletin board with bills from guests. "Those messages make me SO happy. Then you see that people really like it here."
What distinguishes Le Silence from other campsites in Brabant
"Brabant is bursting with beautiful campsites and the Netherlands is so beautiful. If you look hard enough, there are so many beautiful places," Heidi sighs. "But this is just the most beautiful spot in De Moer," she says, smiling.
What distinguishes Le Silence is the conscious choice for small scale and a personal touch. Every day Heidi walks around the campsite. "Just a chat, attention for the guests. We find that important, that connection with the guest." Le Silence also distinguishes itself with the authenticity of the place. "We stay as we are. No cottages, no luxury camping spots. This is pure and real."
Heidi smiles and quotes a famous quote:
"If you only stay yourself long enough, you automatically become special. I would like to hang that on the wall here".
