Unique stay in a former Bomb shelter converted into vacation rental

Spend your Weekend in a WWII Bomb Shelter in the Netherlands

Where once protected from enemy fire, today up to four guests can spend two unforgettable nights in a unique environment protected by thick walls. 

While the construction of the fortress was supposed to keep former attackers and enemies at a distance, the temporary residents of today expect a cosy stay in an unusually fascinating domicile. A well thought-out design concept makes it possible! 

The semi-underground construction in the idyllic, green surroundings of the Dutch Rivierenland with its numerous historic fortified towns was part of the "Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie" during the war. 

The entrance of the listed bunker is underground and makes the special history of this building unmistakably clear. To allow at least a little daylight to enter the interior, the once massive reinforced door was replaced by a transparent glass door.

The daring new use of the bunker as a "holiday home" of an idiosyncratic kind also demanded an original approach to the conversion. Thus one enters the nine square metre main room of the complex via the "kitchen", which is kept simple and modest but fulfils its task in a practical way. 

For this purpose, an existing niche was used and a steel construction was devised, which allows all the basic functions required and offers storage space for the sink, two hotplates, as well as a shelf for pots, pans and supplies.

In the square living room and bedroom, in which up to four people can stay overnight, specially designed multifunctional furniture enables optimal use of space. The stools can also be used as side tables and the furniture can be moved flexibly, the beds can be folded up or down. Shelves and bed drawers provide storage space. 

The practical design was inspired by Le Corbusier. All elements have double functions: Chairs serve as bedside tables, coffee tables or steps. Warm, light-coloured wood was chosen as the material, which contrasts with the rough "charm" of the concrete walls and gives the barren bunker ambience a cosy touch. 

The limited living space and a room height of less than two meters force you to limit yourself to the bare essentials. There is no bath. However, overnight guests can use the sanitary facilities in a nearby building on the grounds. 

Outside the bunker, a wooden terrace extends the limited interior space. With dimensions of 3.00 x 3.00 metres it is just as large as the habitable area of the bunker. The contrast between the massive bunker complex and the dainty-looking exterior platform gives an impression of the strength of the outer walls. The terrace offers not only an undisturbed panoramic view over the surrounding area, but also the possibility of barbecueing, sunbathing or simply "letting the soul dangle" in good weather.


For people with claustrophobia, the old protective structure may be less suitable, while fair-faced concrete fans and nature lovers will find it to their liking. For those who love peace and quiet and appreciate safe four walls, this hospitable fortress bunker near the Dutch town of Gorinchem is the perfect place.

Learn more on provider's website 
or book your unique stay here