24 August 2019 ————————————————————————————————
It is becoming more and more clear to us that the expectations of a number of the current discerning guests has hugely increased in the last half year and we in Pigeon House can't fulfil those expectations anymore without a huge and costly renovation of the entire building and grounds. Possibly requiring extending too as the bathroom is very small. This creates a dilemma for us. We love to have our guests a great time and nothing to complain about. This last half year we have our doubts about being able to achieve this goal anymore and we find it difficult to cope with complaints. This is a very unique property and very valuable, there are for us more profitable options to invest our money in and with much less work. Having said this, we look back on 10 years of rental which we thoroughly enjoyed and met lots of nice and happy guests.
Renovating would be an option if we would plan rental for the next 20 years or so but considering our age this does not make economic sense. On top of this, taking suggestions and complaints into account we don't seem to be able to complete this huge task in the change over period between 11 and 4. Just the kitchen cleaning task of all the units with content where previous guests have left stuff not properly clean is overwhelming and lots more to do. Maybe it is our age, but we don't seem to be able to manage anymore in the time given.
For this reason we are considering to stop taking reservations for the period after Christmas and proceed with putting the property up for sale. This is not without regret, in particular for our loyal guests who would love to return. Final decision has not been taken but for the moment we have blocked next year to avoid disappointment. If any of our loyal guests would love to add to the decision making then you know where to find us.
PS: we already have some reservations and are considering to accept reservations from guests who have stayed with us before if this can be compatible with putting the property up for sale. You will be kept up to date.
8 Juni 2019 ————————————————————————————————
Major renovation work completed to exterior, all decaying timber replaced and now colour black. This was in the pen for at least three years but the contractor was busy en work got postponed year after year. But now completed! And not before time. Still outstanding is replacement of some hinges in the small windows, which proves to be quite a task as there is not much room to manoeuvre. Not even sure whether it is possible without hacking into the plaster or stone surrounds.
6 Juni 2019 ————————————————————————————————
Dear Pigeon House Guests,
First of all we thank you for the interest shown in our Pigeon House and many of you have stayed shorter or longer periods in the house. We have shared this magical spot with you all for almost 10 years. We now have come at a crossroads and had to make our mind up, either to renovate the house or sell. The kitchen, the bathroom, the furniture and beds will have to be replaced in the next few years and all interior and exterior finishes will need more than a bit of attention. Parts will be ok for another few years but not much more. Renovation would make the house perfect again for at least another twenty years but in view of our age and retirement this would not be a realistic option.
This means that next year, 2020, Pigeon House will be put up for sale and will be the last year that we can share her with you. Any reservations for 2020 will be safe. You will be kept up to date on our website and Facebook pages. The house and lands will only be sold at the right price for somebody who values privacy, great views and lots of space. The house itself is only a small part of the commodity and can be extended to allow all year round habitation. Any upgrades now will be a waste of money as the first thing the new owner will do is renovate and most likely extend to their own requirements.
We are kind of sad to bring you this news but still look forward to another year to share Pigeon House with our regulars and anybody new who would like to give it a try before we stop taking reservations.
Marjolijn & Daniel