Gently flowing streams, locks, sheep and winding little lanes. I never thought the short drive from Diest to Lichtaart (Kasterlee) could be so utterly adorable.
A week ago we went glamping for the weekend at ‘De Ark van Noë‘. After a drive of about 30 minutes we arrived at the brasserie already feeling completely zen. It's a stone's throw from Bobbejaanland, but surrounded entirely by greenery between the water and the fields.
A quick check-in and then straight round the corner to the car park of the glamping site.
On the way we saw a whole flock of sheep walking past along the stream. I instantly felt as if I were somewhere on the Hungarian Puszta.
Glamping tents:
And then suddenly you see it: a small lake like a mirror, surrounded by tents on little jetties at the water's edge. Woods all around, rabbits everywhere and a chicken or peacock here and there. The name Ark van Noe is certainly well earned.
We booked the first tent and, like all the others, it had a stunning terrace. Honestly, you could have just left me sitting on that terrace for a whole weekend.
A little snack and a drink to go with it, and this woman is a happy camper.
So I was very pleased that the breakfast was so extensive that we had to sit down for at least an hour for it.
The family tents are equipped with two comfortable double beds. These can also be pushed apart. A little dressing table and a shelf unit with a small camping kitchen.
But however lovely the tents are, complete with cushions and little mats … outside is where it's really at.
Do be aware: the tents can't be heated, so bring thick pyjamas and possibly an extra sleeping bag.
Petting farm:
Instead of a nice walk where you see all sorts of animals behind a fence, here you're right IN the farm.
Waking up to a peacock at the edge of your tent, nibbling rabbits alongside your terrace and chickens among the trees. If you love seeing animals, you've come to the right place.
There's also a classic petting farm on the site. A kind of large farmyard where you can walk among the pigs, chickens, ducks, rabbits, goats, sheep, guinea pigs, … and cuddle them.
Fully fenced, so ideal with small children.
Playground:
For my children, a playground is simply part of their ideal holiday. The Ark van Noe has a lovely playground … a bit more creative and natural. The mini adventurer can also try their hand at fishing in the fishing pond or a lovely canoe trip on the Kleine Nete.
And for those who don't find that exciting enough: Bobbejaanland is only a few kilometres away.
Food and drink:
It wasn't just about playing for the little ones, by the way, but also about good food and drink for the grown-ups. Every morning the caterer came to deliver a picnic basket full of salads, sandwich fillings, biscuits, fruit, hot and cold drinks, small dishes, bread rolls and so on.
Mind you … it didn't always go smoothly. One morning I woke up to the peacock happily pecking away at my croissant. I lost the roll, but charm all round.
We stayed at the Ark van Noe during lockdown, so we couldn't eat in the cosy restaurant. I could see it was super cosy though, and that the playground is ideal for your little ones to let off steam.
Wellness:
I already said it wasn't all play for the little ones … there was play for the grown-ups too …
At the far end of the site there's a small private wellness area. Sauna, hot tub, outdoor shower, cosy seating nooks and a fabulous view. It's definitely worth booking in the evening at sunset.
That way we looked straight out at the setting sun from the hot tub. Could be worse …
Cold, wet feet, rain, a storm, electricity that gave out, but also laughter, cosy relaxation, being together, feasting our eyes and letting our taste buds feast on the food. De Ark van Noe was ideal for enjoying those last few days as a mum of two.
