Trafohaus

There's a wood-burning smell throughout the house, even though it has a fireplace, and that kept me from giving the rooms five stars. Otherwise, this little house is a gem in historic Gräfrath, around 35 square meters in all. Downstairs feels like a rustic cottage, with two bookcases in the living room and kitchen. The kitchen has a gas stove, fridge, coffee pods and mini oven. Upstairs there's a double bed and wardrobe, then another level where you can climb the tower. The rustic bathroom has an unusual double sink, both a classic and a wall-mounted toilet, and a walk-in shower. Highly recommended!

It felt like a friend had lent me their place. The hostel is homey and unusual, and the little kitchen with its fridge made it easy to plan my own trip. I was there during an October storm and still loved it. I'll definitely come back. Bring slippers, though. The small hall on the way to the toilet has a surface that's lovely under bare feet, but not in a good way, and non-slip socks won't help. I want to visit in summer too, since the little terrace looked so inviting, but the storm wasn't terrace weather.

Leaving after five nights was hard, and I'll be back. The Trafohaus is a lovingly furnished hotel or holiday home in the middle of the beautiful old town, and the owners gave us such a warm welcome. It has a special atmosphere and everything you need: a kitchen and fridge, a huge shelf full of books, private Wi-Fi, a fireplace, plus lots of thoughtful touches. I wholeheartedly recommend it. It really felt like home.

My birthday present was ruined. I'd booked months ahead, but they cancelled just a week before I was due to arrive, saying a calendar error had caused a double booking. They offered a discount on other accommodation, but after booking so early, I expected them to find me somewhere else. I find the whole thing outrageous.