Hochsauerland with a baby: Countryside fun, views of cowsheds & homemade butter
Our first vanlife trip with baby and country life takes us to the Hochsauerland region: a quiet pitch by the cowshed, warm hospitality, homemade butter and fresh country air – perfect for a relaxed start for the three of us.
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Arrival in the Hochsauerland region – our first trip with baby
We're traveling through the Hochsauerland region – our first time with "Baby on Board." The trip is a test run to see how well our little Emil handles the journey and the night in the camper. We're relieved as soon as we arrive: it's quiet, and there are hardly any other people around. This allows us to focus entirely on our little one – without any outside distractions.
Our Landvergnügen campsite: Hinnderkes Farm
We couldn't have chosen a better spot: Nicole and Martin's Hinnderkes farm. In the middle of nowhere in the Sauerland region (yet with full mobile reception) stands the cowshed – and right next to it, a spacious, gently sloping meadow for a maximum of three campers. Don't forget leveling blocks! In return, you'll find plenty of space and a relaxed, "do your own thing" atmosphere.
Traveling with a baby – our tip
The drive here takes about two hours and goes mostly smoothly. Emil seems to enjoy the sounds of the camper – perhaps they remind him of the womb.
A little tip for parents: We cleared out a drawer just for him and organized diaper-changing supplies in a designated spot. This way, Mom and Dad can react quickly at any time. Eliminating as many variables as possible saves a lot of stress. For the first trip, it's better to choose a quiet location rather than being right in the middle of the hustle and bustle.
Between cowshed and country air
We park our camper so that we have a direct view of the barn. Every now and then, a contented "moo" can be heard. During our short afternoon visit to the barn, we are met with the gentle gazes of the cattle – it feels as if the world is still alright here.
In the afternoon we also meet Nicole. She drives her car onto the meadow, greets us warmly, and wishes us a pleasant stay. We talk about breakfast and that we'd like to take some butter and a few eggs with us – no problem. The butter is homemade and incredibly delicious.
First night as a family of three in the camper
Towards evening, we grill some sausages. Although it's mid-August, a cool wind whistles across the meadow – time to retreat to the camper. The night is our first "three of us in the camper bed" adventure. Breastfeeding, diaper changes, and everything else go smoothly during the night thanks to Mom.
Breakfast with a view of the countryside
The sun wakes us the next morning. We drink coffee in bed and open the camper door. Emil looks out curiously; everything smells of fresh country air. The soft light of the sunrise bathes the meadow in gentle colors – almost like on Instagram, only without a filter. At 7:30 a.m., Nicole comes by, greets us warmly, and puts breakfast in front of the camper.
Our conclusion
Countryside Getaway Spot: A must-try! Peaceful location, plenty of space, wonderful hosts, and homemade butter – perfect for anyone wanting to slow down.
First camping trip with Emil: It's worth trying something new. Yes, space is tighter with a baby, and the car seat replaces the table – but the experience is priceless. We're certain: Vanlife season has officially begun for Emil, too.