An hour outside Amsterdam a dockside crane has been the recipient of intelligent engineering and dedicated devotion rarely seen in a private home, let alone in a hotel propert, and converted into a luxury hideaway for two.

Replacing the external ladders with modern lifts to gain entry, the old machine room in the body of the crane has been transformed into a luxurious bedroom that would not be out of place in the most modern of design hotels.

It is an out of this world property - staying here guarantees you stories to tell your friends!

Managers, Willem and Carla have managed to keep the existing observation windows and industrial feel, but have added comfort, warmth and the latest flat screen and audio equipment to create a fantastic environment to enjoy a boyhood dream for many – your own personal, WORKING crane. Even though they've fitted a luxury double shower and designer loo the crane can still swirl around controlled from the comfort of the drivers cabin.

Arrive promptly, and take advantage of the view, as rain or shine, this is a spectacular vantage point to view the old docks. With a crane at you disposal, you're sure to find yourself spinning the platform instead of watching the supplied DVD's.

A fantastic breakfast is included, delivered magically via the internal lift to your bedroom. Close to the city centre of Harlingen you're only 10 minutes walk from the shops and restaurants of this thriving Dutch seaside town. Harlingen is a working dockside town, but you're in the quiet historic port, next to the harbour master office and historic square rigger boats.

Entry to the crane itself requires no exertion as lifts are provided to gain entry to the main bedroom area. The top picnic area and crane cabin are accessed via a ladder from the main bedroom, but you rarely feel enclosed or adverse to heights. This is a solid, trustworthy block of metal, and even when it's rotating you recognize that it is capable of lifting tons of goods, so you and your bedroom don't pose a problem.
 
Double occupancy €299 for a couple sharing for 2007 inc Taxes and Breakfast. (€319 for bookings in 2008).

The team don't accept online reservations; as they prefer to assist you by telephone. Reception is mainly open in the morning, so you may prefer to use the inquiry link to send an email asking for information, to check the website for any additional questions.

Payment via advance bank transfer or via a cheque in Euro's drawn on a Dutch bank.

Upon booking acceptance and money transfer completion, the Harlingen crane team will send you a comprehensive arrival pack. Even though the lifts allow entry for even the most vertigo challenged and fitness-free, pack your belongings in a squashy bag, as one of the lifts is small and will only accept a small suitcase or soft bag and you at the same time.

Traveller Feedback:
Fantastic – truly unusual, and memorable. Thank you for making me so welcome.
Steve Dobson, UK

www.uhotw.com