The Netherlands may be best known for its windmills and wooden shoes, but the small country also has a scene fit for any lover of the arts — especially those with a penchant for design.
Unique and sometimes over-the-top design is at the forefront of many Dutch hotels. The following one-of-a-kind hotels are perfect for those who want a little more out of their stay than the standard experience.
Kruisherenhotel Maastricht in Maastricht
Once a monastery dating back to the 15th century, Kruisherenhotel Maastricht is now a five-star hotel with 60 modern guestrooms that are spread out between the original monastery, the gardens and the former gatekeeper’s residence.
Modern touches adorn the inside of the 15th-century Kruisherenhotel Maastricht.
Credit: 2020 Kruisherenhotel Maastricht
Each space in the property is inspired by medieval architecture combined with contemporary flair, thus creating a luxurious experience for guests. Guestrooms span from single rooms to suites complete with sculptures and modern art. Other facilities at the hotel include meeting rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi access, a cloister garden, a library, a wine bar and a fine dining restaurant with both French and regional cuisine. Lovers of history and design are likely to feel right at home at this hotel.
www.oostwegelcollection.nl
Vliegtuigsuite Teuge in Teuge
Sleeping on a plane is typically uncomfortable — that is, unless you have the whole plane to yourself. This single-suite hotel is inside of a 1960 Ilyushin 18 airplane, which once could accommodate 120 passengers and four crewmembers. In its early days, it was a government plane, before it was used by an East-German airline until 1986.
Guests can fly high during their stay at Vliegtiugsuite.
Credit: 2020 VliegtuigsuiteToday, the airplane is a suite for two, complete with a Jacuzzi, an infrared sauna, a minibar, three flat-screen televisions and free internet. The plane is grounded at Teuge International Airport, and guests can book a flying lesson or a sightseeing flight along with their stay.
www.vliegtuighotel.nl
The Toren Hotel in Amsterdam
The type of architecture that's traditional to Amsterdam comes to life at The Toren Hotel, which encompasses two restored, historic canal houses from the 17th century. High-class families used to live in the dwellings, including Abraham Kuyper, the former Prime Minister of the Netherlands.
Each of the 40 guestrooms is unique, and offers views of the hotel’s interior gardens, the Keizersgracht canal or neighboring buildings. The property’s Main House and the Private House are a little more than 160 feet away from each other; the Main House hosts the reception area, the lobby, a bar and a lounge, serving small plates and cocktails, while the Private House is more intimate but just as accessible.
www.thetoren.nl
Crane Hotel Faralda in Amsterdam
Clients who are afraid of heights may want to skip this hotel: Crane Hotel Faralda features three lavish suites located inside a slowly turning crane, thereby providing a different view every day. But more fearless clients should know that it’s also the only place in Amsterdam for bungee jumping. Additionally, a Jacuzzi at the top of the crane allows guests to relax while enjoying the up-high scene.
All three suites overlook the IJ lake and the city of Amsterdam.
Credit: 2020 Crane Hotel FaraldaCrane Hotel Faralda is situated in a former ship wharf that is now a hub for art and culture, and corporate and music events have designated spaces on property. Each of the two-floor suites offers distinctive design, art, furniture and antiques.
www.faralda.com
Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam in Zaandam
Instead of basing the facade of Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam on one traditional house of the Zaan region, the property appears to consist of multiple traditional houses stacked on top of each other. Its guestrooms also celebrate the traditional products of the Zaan region, from cheese to cocoa.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant, a bar, a gym, a swimming pool and meeting rooms. While Zandaam has plenty of things to do and see, the area is a short train ride away from Amsterdam.
www.inntelhotelsamsterdamzaandam.nl
