Thinking about moving to Oostkapelle? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Oostkapelle.
Located in the southwestern province of Zeeland, Oostkapelle is a charming village in the Netherlands that offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and coastal beauty. Known for its expansive beaches, lush green landscapes, and a close-knit community, Oostkapelle is a place that many people call home. However, like any place, living in Oostkapelle comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of living in this Dutch village.
Pros of Living in Oostkapelle
One of the most significant advantages of living in Oostkapelle is its natural beauty. The village is surrounded by a diverse landscape that includes sandy beaches, dunes, forests, and farmland. This makes it an ideal place for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and bird watching. For instance, the De Manteling nature reserve offers a variety of walking and cycling routes that allow residents to explore the area’s rich biodiversity.
Another advantage of living in Oostkapelle is its strong sense of community. With a population of just over 2,000 people, it’s easy to get to know your neighbors and become part of the local community. There are numerous community events throughout the year, such as the annual Oostkapelle Day, where residents come together to celebrate their village with music, food, and games. Volunteering is also a big part of life in Oostkapelle, with organizations like the local Red Cross and the Oostkapelle Community Association always looking for help.
Oostkapelle’s location also makes it an attractive place to live. Despite its rural setting, the village is well-connected to larger cities like Middelburg and Vlissingen, which are just a short drive away. This means that residents can enjoy the peace and quiet of village life, while still having easy access to the amenities and opportunities of a city.
Finally, Oostkapelle is known for its high quality of life. The village has a low crime rate, excellent healthcare facilities, and a good education system. The local primary school, De Lispeltuut, is highly regarded and offers a nurturing environment for children. Furthermore, the clean air and relaxed pace of life in Oostkapelle contribute to the overall well-being of its residents.
Cons of Living in Oostkapelle, Netherlands
Despite its many advantages, living in Oostkapelle also has its downsides. One of the main disadvantages is the village’s limited amenities. While Oostkapelle has a few shops, restaurants, and a supermarket, it lacks the variety and choice that a larger town or city can offer. This means that residents often have to travel to nearby cities for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Another downside of living in Oostkapelle is its lack of diversity. The village’s population is predominantly Dutch, and while this can contribute to a strong sense of community, it can also feel isolating for those from different cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, while English is widely spoken in the Netherlands, in smaller communities like Oostkapelle, Dutch is the main language of communication, which can be a challenge for non-Dutch speakers.
The cost of living in Oostkapelle can also be a disadvantage. While it’s cheaper than living in a major city like Amsterdam, the cost of housing in Oostkapelle is relatively high compared to other rural areas in the Netherlands. This is largely due to the village’s popularity as a holiday destination, which drives up property prices.
Finally, while Oostkapelle’s rural location is one of its main attractions, it can also be a disadvantage. Public transport options are limited, making a car almost essential for getting around. Furthermore, job opportunities in the village are limited, and many residents commute to nearby cities for work. This can add to the cost of living and reduce the amount of time available for enjoying the village’s natural beauty and community activities.
