Dirk-Jan van Weezel

Glamping by the Brabantse Wal: a new experience at Jachthaven de Schapenput
A gentle breeze through the trees, boats sailing by and, in the evening, a starry sky above your tent. At Jachthaven de Schapenput in De Heen , you can experience the great outdoors in a way that combines luxury and simplicity. You can now stay in one of the brand-new glamping tents, set amidst the greenery. “You really have to experience it for yourself,” says owner Dirk-Jan van Weezel. “The peace and quiet, the space, the sweeping views… You can’t see that in a photo; you only feel it when you’re here.”

The four glamping tents are fully furnished and equipped with every convenience: a private bathroom, kitchen, comfortable beds and even a slide and a TV. “You’re right in the heart of nature here, but without compromising on comfort,” explains Dirk-Jan. “And all that just five minutes from the motorway. It really feels like a getaway, yet it’s still close by.”

From marina to experience
The glamping tents are a new addition to the family business with its roots in the water. The de Neve family has been associated with Jachthaven de Schapenput since the early 1990s. What began as a modest marina has since grown into a place where those seeking peace and quiet, water sports enthusiasts and now also campers come together.

Dirk-Jan runs the marina together with his brothers. The previous generation – his foster parents Kees and Ria – handed over the marina step by step. The family manages not only De Schapenput in De Heen, but also the marina in Steenbergen. “Two completely different harbours,” says Dirk-Jan. “One is surrounded by nature, the other is in a small town. That variety works in our favour: there’s something for everyone.”

Expanding step by step
The decision to introduce glamping tents at the marina in De Heen didn’t come out of the blue. Behind the marina lies a wooded area that was previously used mainly for walking. “We asked ourselves: shouldn’t we be doing more with that? That’s how we came up with the idea of glamping tents.” It took a bit of patience: obtaining the permits for this patch of Brabant countryside wasn’t straightforward, partly due to surveys for protected species such as bats and martens. But persistence pays off: by 2024, the first four tents were in place. And there’s more to come.

“We have space for twelve, but we’re taking it step by step. We’re funding everything ourselves, without a bank. That gives us freedom, but it also means we have to make realistic choices.” In the future, they’d also like to install insulated tents to extend the season.

That holiday feeling, for everyone
What makes the work so special for Dirk-Jan? “Everyone who comes here is on holiday. People are relaxed. Our job is simple: to make sure they have a good time.” And they’re succeeding, if the enthusiastic feedback is anything to go by. “There are people who drive seven hours to get here. And they always go home with a smile.”

Dirk-Jan himself experienced the magic of the place in a special way. “When the tents were first ready, we had a little celebration with our whole family. Sitting there in the evening, with the whole family, having a drink and looking out over the water… That was fantastic! I really thought to myself then: more people should experience this.”

A place with a future, without the rush
There are plans for the future, but they don’t have to be grand. “We want to expand to twelve tents, but not because we have to. Above all, it has to stay fun. And we want to maintain the quality, just as it is now.” There’s also a desire to build decking, so that the water feels even closer. Because ultimately, at the Schapenput, it’s all about connection: with the water, with nature and with one another. “Is the Brabantse Wal the most beautiful place in the Netherlands?” He smiles: “There are so many beautiful places in the Netherlands, but the Brabantse Wal is definitely my favourite. And we’d love for everyone to come and experience it for themselves!”

Visit the website of Jachthaven De Schapenput.

July 2025