Connect to nature at Woodsy Cabin
Join us for the next Ajen Getaway and embark on a journey into this luxurious getaway deluxe. In the forests of Essen you will find Woodsy Cabin, a unique cottage designed by Renske of renskeontdektdewereld. With large windows that bring the outdoors in, a wood-fired hot tub, and a skylight in the bathroom for showering under the stars, this place is an oasis of calm. With body care products of Ajen, it offers the perfect balance connecting to nature and luxurious comfort for an unforgettable retreat.
About Renske
Almost 10 years ago, Renske (’91) posted her first ‘Renske ontdekt de wereld’ (Renske discovers the world) post on Instagram, and her website renskeontdektdewereld.nl went live. Still in its infancy, but already full of enthusiasm and attention to detail. Now, ten years later, with 33K followers and counting, she has written three books about amazing places to stay, slept in hundreds of accommodations, and can now call herself an expert in unique and cool places to stay.
Creation of Woodsy Cabin inspired by nature
Being in nature has always felt like a balm for my soul: the hush of the forest, the gentle chorus of birds, and the freedom to clear my mind. An experience my children adore too as they hunt for pinecones, gather colorful leaves, and splash in puddles. Fueled by years of uncovering hidden retreats across the Netherlands and Flanders and guided by my “Renske checklist” of essentials. A crackling fireplace, steamy hot tub, sturdy bikes, and the coziest beds. I dreamed of creating our own woodland haven. After months (really, years) of online searches and an April 2023 road trip scouting “recreation area” plots, we secured permission from the Forest and Nature Agency and, in November 2023, became the proud owners of 1,500 m² of private forest in Essen, Belgium, where the only neighbors are the trees. Over the next year we worked hard to finalize the cabin plans during the five‑month permit review, and in July 2024 broke ground on our all‑wood cabin. Complete with floor‑to‑ceiling windows, cozy sleeping nooks, an outdoor shower and plunge tank, a hot tub, and a spacious terrace. Each detail lovingly crafted so guests can truly immerse themselves in the forest.
Explore Essen's natural treasures
Less than twenty minutes away by car (or 45 by bike), the Kalmthoutse Heide offers heathlands, ponds, forests and sand dunes perfect for a scenic walk or cycle via entrances like Hemelrijk. A short 13‑minute bike ride (or 8‑minute drive) brings you to the Gerda Hoeve Ice Cream Farm, where traditional, all‑natural ice cream meets a sunny terrace, friendly farm animals and a playground. And you can even stock up on tubs to enjoy back at Woodsy. Just a 10‑minute walk (or 2‑minute bike ride) down the trail lies De Bosrust, an outdoor play paradise with a parents’ terrace, a seasonal corn maze (July through September) bike‑friendly for Roetz adventures, and a full brasserie menu. From peaceful heathland hikes to sweet treats and endless playtime fun, Woodsy’s surroundings have something to delight every guest.