Birgit is a relaxed host, with a warm personality. Her houseboat Martha is in a lovely location and staying there was a unique experience for us. The upper deck is full of light with a large comfortable sitting/dining area, bathroom with underfloor heating and great views of the little harbour and other houseboats. The kitchen is well equipped and there are small deck areas with seating at both the bows and stern so you can catch the morning and the evening sun.
An important aspect to note is that the houseboat lists significantly to one side, which makes the steep stairs more challenging and two people sleeping in a double bed which slopes to one side is ‘interesting’! We were unable to close the double doors to the main bedroom as the door on the sloping side just slid downwards every time as the bolt in the bottom of the door didn’t hold in place. The shower door also doesn’t close fully and water leaks into the bathroom.
There are two supermarkets nearby, about 10-12 mins walk, and the transport connections are splendid; the most scenic way to go into the city is by harbour bus, which is close to the supermarkets. The fastest way is by bus; the stop for No 34 is just by the boat, and to take the 4A is a 10 minute walk down a lovely quiet path set back from the main road. If you are keen on cycling, the city is extremely well serviced with cycle lanes and there are lots of quiet pastoral paths for cycling too.