If you've followed us on social media, you've seen our unforgettable weekend at RCN de Schotsman. This campsite and bungalow park is a dream for water sports fans. As beginners, we sampled it all—here's our firsthand account.
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It's just a 1.5-hour drive from home to Kamperland in Zeeland. Hitting the road Friday afternoon meant traffic delays, but arriving felt rewarding. After weeks of work and post-move chores, this waterfront getaway at RCN de Schotsman was a breath of fresh air.
We love Zeeland—our previous trip to Domburg was magical, with its beaches, sea, and iconic boluses (my personal favorite). RCN de Schotsman sits on Veerse Meer, not the open sea, offering scenic drives past charming Veere.
After check-in, the kids dashed to our modern 8-person bungalow—spacious, newly furnished, with four bedrooms. Predictably, they squabbled over rooms and private bathrooms. Peace restored, we unpacked into ample wardrobes, explored the site, and dined at restaurant De Schotsman. Service was busy but worth the wait; the menu boasts excellent meat, fish, and vegetarian options at great value.
While bungalows shine, campers and tents have ample waterfront spots. We admired RVers launching surfboards straight into Veerse Meer—pure freedom.
Our itinerary: sailing Saturday, SUP and waterskiing Sunday. Saturday storms (bless the bungalow roof) shifted sailing to Monday—safety first. Clearing skies let us maximize the weekend outdoors.
Lotte was nervous yet eager. At the ski center (a 5-minute walk), we watched a safety video on the course and rules. As the smallest, she proved her swimming ability and joined. Wetsuits and life jackets on, tension built—until I bowed out due to my knee injury, freeing me for photos.
My three adventurers hit the water and, astonishingly, skied off on first tries—until the turns! Multiple attempts built their enthusiasm, evolving teen skepticism into pure excitement.
SUP was calmer—no lessons needed. Wetsuits on (wise choice despite initial bikini temptation), I recalled past success. First try: splash! Kneeling first worked; these boards were wobblier, but I stood and paddled smoothly.
Wind swept us across Veerse Meer effortlessly, but returning was a workout. Kids struggled; Lotte swam hers back. Note for families: Supervise young ones—wind can carry you far, though currents are mild. We showered off, exhilarated.
Monday's ideal conditions led to Sailcollege on-site. Imagining solo tiny boats had us all anxious—relief when we learned we'd share one. Instructor Ilse explained terms (lines, not ropes!), reefed the sail for wind, and soon I helmed, slicing across Veerse Meer amid sailboats, yachts, and surfers.
Ilse's calm guidance eased tacking nerves. Frank, Luc, and I took turns steering toward Veere and back. Lotte relaxed; for longer stays, kids master Optimists in five half-days. Group lessons suit beginners perfectly.
Water sports, pools, and playgrounds fill days at RCN de Schotsman. Nearby: Vlissingen shopping, Pirate Park, North Sea Aquarium. We dined in Dishoek, walked beaches, and met friends at Domburg's de Banjaard pavilion (lovely beach, mixed food). Neeltje Jans, cycling, and Westenschouwen's climbing forest await. Check the campsite site for Kamperland tips.
RCN's ethos shines: Profits fund holidays for those in need via 'You a smile, she a smile.' Across parks, including 100 annual welfare family getaways. Heartwarming impact elevates your trip.
