Horstmannsbos Luxury Campsite
Nature-inspired luxury campsite transformation
Hidden among the pines of Gasselte in Drenthe, the Horstmannsbos campsite has long been a favourite for those seeking stillness, fresh air and a sense of escape. Its woodland setting, shaped by centuries of shifting sand dunes and forest trails, makes it a natural draw for guests who enjoy experiencing life at a gentler pace. Recently, Horstmannsbos set out on an ambitious journey: to raise its offering with a series of premium safari-style lodges that would bring a new level of comfort to the site while respecting the landscape that guests come to enjoy.
The result is a beautiful blend of serenity and considered design. Through thoughtful planning, intelligent material choices and an unwavering commitment to exceptional guest experience, Horstmannsbos has created a destination that feels both indulgent and perfectly in tune with its surroundings.
The Challenge: Enhancing the Camping Experience Without Losing Its Soul
Campsites across Europe have increasingly embraced “glamping” and luxury outdoor stays, yet the team at Horstmannsbos knew their setting required something special. They weren’t simply adding accommodation – they were shaping an experience.
Their goal was:
To create high-end safari lodges that delivered comfort, enhanced safety and year-round durability, without disrupting the natural charm that defines Horstmannsbos.
This meant any new structure needed to:
- Sit harmoniously within the woodland environment
- Feel robust enough for year-round guest use
- Deliver consistently, regardless of season
- Offer visual warmth and authenticity
- Prioritise safety, especially around water and elevated walkways
Finding a material that could balance all these demands proved to be the defining challenge of the project.
The Solution: Millboard Weathered Oak Decking in Vintage
After exploring a number of options, Horstmannsbos chose Millboard’s Weathered Oak decking in Vintage for its safari lodges and surrounding walkways. The decision centred on three key considerations: appearance, durability and guest comfort.
Millboard’s Weathered Oak decking in Vintage brings a characterful, natural look that sits beautifully in woodland environments. With its textured surface and muted, earthy tones, it mirrors the depth and detail of real aged timber, while avoiding the ongoing demanding upkeep traditional wood can demand.
Crucially for a site that welcomes guests in all seasons, the decking offers exceptionally slip-resistant performance, even around water. Its wood-free structure means it won’t warp or splinter – vital for maintaining safety and comfort across busy footfall areas.
Paired with the safari aesthetic, the Vintage boards offer a balance of rugged charm and refined style. They help reinforce the narrative of outdoor adventure while delivering the quality expected of premium accommodation.
Implementation: Building a Setting That Enhances the Landscape
The transformation at Horstmannsbos was about more than replacing surfaces – it was about reimagining how people move through and interact with the site.
The Weathered Oak decking in Vintage now forms a series of raised platforms overlooking a peaceful swimming pond, creating a beautiful sense of arrival as guests step into their lodges. Bridges and walkways link each structure, allowing guests to wander between spaces with ease while soaking in the woodland views.
These elevated areas serve both form and function:
- Aesthetic appeal – The boards blend seamlessly with the natural palette of Drenthe’s forests, complementing rather than competing with the scenery.
- Practical benefit – The decking allows for routes that float above uneven ground and damp soil, improving accessibility throughout the year.
- Guest experience – Guests can enjoy morning coffee on their deck, dip into the swimming pond via steady underfoot surfaces, and relax knowing the environment around them has been designed with care.
The result is a layout that feels intuitive, peaceful and perfectly suited to slow, restorative stays.
Nature Inspired Luxury: Tranforming Horstmannsbos Campsite
A Luxury Setting That Guests Remember
The response from guests and the Horstmannsbos team has been overwhelmingly positive. The Weathered Oak Vintage installations have helped create a sense of quiet luxury, giving guests a place to unwind while feeling truly immersed in nature.
Key outcomes include:
- A seamless fit with the landscape
The Vintage boards complement the forest setting, reinforcing the campsite’s identity rather than altering it.
- Reliable performance with minimal upkeep
A busy holiday site needs materials that don’t demand constant attention. The low-maintenance nature of the decking means the team spends less time on repairs and more time enhancing guest experience.
- Year-round safety and reassurance
With surfaces that remain highly slip resistant, even around the swimming pond, the decking continues to perform regardless of weather, offering reassurance underfoot and comfort throughout each guest’s stay.
- Consistent occupancy and improved operational efficiency
Because the decking doesn’t require regular demanding treatment or lengthy downtime for refurbishment, lodges can stay operational without interruption. This prevents lost bookings and supports steady revenue through peak and shoulder seasons.
Together, these benefits have enabled Horstmannsbos to deliver a premium experience that feels effortless to guests and dependable to staff.
Credits
The beautiful photography featured alongside this case study has been kindly provided by Wooddeck, capturing the atmosphere, design and natural harmony of the Horstmannsbos project with exceptional clarity.
Planning Your Next Project?
If you’re considering creating a destination that celebrates outdoor living while offering lasting comfort, our portfolio is full of inspiration – from Wimbledon No.1 Court to the tranquil pathways of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Wimbledon No.1 Court
