Duinrell- any tips?

[LaLaLouella]

We are off to Duinrell in Holland next week staying in a duingalow - anybody been this summer and have any tips?

I'm assuming it will be furnished like a self catering chalet and do I don't really have to take anything for cooking/cleaning?

Any tips on what's good nearby? Restaurants, bars, things to do?

One of the best places to eat nearby is at the Pannenkoeken Huis just outside the park entrance.

The best ice creams can be found at Luciano's in Waasenaar (just a 5 minute walk from Duinrell).
We ate dinner at Bida Baai on the beach twice as they sold a variety of food to suit all and we loved the view.
You can’t usually check into your accommodation until 3pm but are free to visit the theme park and check out the facilities from as soon as you arrive.
The playgrounds are open all the time – even when the rides are closed. So at the crack of dawn you can take the dc there for a play or alternatively right before bed to burn off any spare energy.
Take travel size shampoo for Tiki bad to avoid having to re-shower at your duingalow.
We found the best time to visit the theme park was first thing in the morning as there'd be no queues at all and you could ride your favourite rides over and over again.
There’s a grocery store onsite (not super expensive yet not Lidl prices). It’s ok for the essentials but I’d recommend shopping in Wassenaar). There are lovely independent shops, butchers, grocery stores, a big Jumbo supermarket and a huge cheese store.
Leiden is an absolutely gorgeous city. It's very much like a smaller/less commercialised Amsterdam. There's a market on Wednesdays and Sundays and it was a brilliant place to pick up some foodie treats and lunch.
Take zip lock bags or tin foil to make up sandwiches. Food is expensive and not the best in my opinion! Portions are not the best either.
Amsterdam is only 25 minutes from the park and it was really easy to get in. I’d leave the car out of Amsterdam though, it’s definitely a city for bikes and boats.
If you’re driving, take scooters, even if you plan on hiring bikes (definitely recommended). Most children on-site had some sort of wheels. The kids loved scooting into town and around the park in the evening.

One of our favourite holiday destinations!! Do a search and you will find all the older threads with loads of information and advice.

Thanks for the tips! Much appreciated :)

@Fivemoreminutes1 ooohhhh! That all sounds great - I'm all excited now <claps hands like a child>

Take passport sized photos as you’ll need them for your passes. Any normal photo cut up is fine.

Did you pay extra for towels? I think bedding is included but towels are extra. You’ll need to take separate ones for the pool.

You have to book the pool in advance - you’ll be given vouchers when you arrive. You can only book a day or so ahead so there will always be spaces. You have to choose either indoor or outdoor - outdoor is weather dependent. There are free lockers indoors but you have to pay outdoors.

You might want to bung a few dishwasher tablets and a cloth/sponge in your case.

In addition there are also a few other supermarkets - Dirk, Albert Heijn, and either and Aldi or Lidl. There is an expat shop across from Jumbo that sells British and American brands at a premium.

Take some cash as not everywhere (including some supermarkets and car parks) accepts visa or Mastercard.

Lots of shops and restaurants across the road in the town.

There is a useful Facebook group called something like duinrell chat and tips.

This is the link to what’s on. info.duinrell.nl/en/entertainment?fbclid=IwAR0V14nwMXnXuO5ZjiufSqzVeebk9-o5hQMLPJ7ENLrULutGc5_QwH8LOsQ

Oh and there are laundry facilities in the camping shower blocks. Soap powder not included.

oh, and no hairdryer in your duingalow.

Thanks for the link to the Facebook page - I'm now inundated with tips!