B&B Hotel Malts

Situated in a listed building dating from 1913 on Zijlstraat, one of Haarlem's most famous shopping streets, B&B Hotel Malts offers an experience that balances the personal atmosphere of a bed & breakfast with the privacy of a hotel. This accommodation distinguishes itself through its exceptionally personal approach, consistently praised by guests and a significant advantage over larger, more anonymous hotels in the region.

The Power of Personal Attention

A recurring theme in almost every review of B&B Hotel Malts is the exceptional hospitality of the owners, Henk and Annemarie. Guests describe them as enthusiastic and passionate hosts who go above and beyond to make their stay as pleasant as possible. From the warm welcome, often accompanied by a comprehensive explanation of the city with a handy map, to the personalized recommendations for restaurants and attractions, the service goes above and beyond what one might expect. This personal touch creates a homely atmosphere, making many guests feel instantly at home. It is this approach that transforms the stay from a simple overnight stay to a complete experience, something you won't easily find in a standard hostel or large-scale resort .

The Rooms: Comfort and Cleanliness

The hotel features 14 unique rooms, each with its own unique layout and character, typical of a historic building. The accommodations vary in size, from smaller, cozy spaces to very spacious rooms suitable for three people. One of the most praised aspects is the impeccable cleanliness. Guests consistently highlight the high standard of cleanliness in both the rooms and the common areas. The beds are described as wonderfully comfortable, contributing to a good night's sleep. Some rooms offer a view of the lively shopping street, while others are equipped with a seating area or even a small balcony or terrace. Amenities such as a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, a separate toilet in some rooms, free and fast Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV are standard. This level of comfort makes it an excellent choice for those seeking quality hospedaje .

Breakfast: A Perfect Start to the Day

Breakfast at Malts is widely acclaimed and an essential part of the experience. It's described as extensive, excellently prepared, and of high quality. Guests can expect fresh produce, including freshly baked rolls and croissants, quality cheese, a perfectly boiled egg, and strong, delicious coffee. Personal touches, such as Henk's freshly squeezed juice or Annemarie's homemade fruit yogurt, make breakfast extra special. Complimentary coffee, tea, and fruit are also available to all guests throughout the day, further enhancing the welcoming atmosphere.

Location and Accessibility

Its central location in the historic city center is a significant advantage. The hotel is the perfect base for exploring Haarlem on foot. Major attractions such as the Grote Kerk (St. Bavo Church) and the Frans Hals Museum are just a stone's throw away. Its location in one of the city's "Golden Streets" means shops, boutiques, and a wealth of dining options are right on the doorstep. This makes it an ideal posada for city explorers who prefer a lively environment.

Important Considerations and Potential Disadvantages

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are some important considerations for potential guests. These "disadvantages" are not flaws of the hotel itself, but rather characteristics of the type of accommodation and its location that should be taken into account.

Accessibility

The most crucial point is accessibility. B&B Hotel Malts is located in a historic building without an elevator and is explicitly not wheelchair accessible. Guests must be aware of stairs to reach their rooms . While the staff is happy to assist with luggage, this can be an insurmountable obstacle for those with limited mobility. This is a key difference from modern hotels, which often have elevators and adapted facilities.

Parking

As is common in historic city centers, the hotel does not have its own parking facilities. It is located in a pedestrian zone, meaning you cannot park in front of the hotel to unload luggage. Guests arriving by car must use nearby public parking garages. The nearest, Parkeergarage Raaks, is about a 3-minute walk away. A tip from a previous guest is to book online at Interparking Station Haarlem (about a 10-minute walk) for a significant discount. This requires some planning and is less convenient than parking at the hotel itself.

Limited Services

Potential guests should be aware that this is a B&B and not a full-service resort. The reception has limited hours (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM). There is no 24-hour service, no fitness center, no swimming pool, or restaurant for lunch and dinner. This is not a place for those looking for the extensive facilities of a large hotel complex, a self-catering apartment , or spacious vacation homes . The focus here is purely on quality bed and breakfast in an intimate setting, similar to a luxury hostería .

Sound of the City

Although one reviewer reported no noise disturbance, the hotel's location on a busy shopping street in the city center can potentially bring some city noise. Guests seeking absolute silence might find this a drawback, though in practice it doesn't seem to be a major problem. It's more of an inn in the heart of the action than a secluded albergue .

B&B Hotel Malts is an excellent choice for travelers who value impeccable service, personalized attention, a high level of cleanliness, and a central location. The owners' passion is palpable in every aspect of the stay, from the warm welcome to the delicious breakfast. It is the ideal accommodation for a city break in Haarlem. However, it is less suitable for guests with mobility issues, travelers arriving by car and looking for easy parking, or those expecting the extensive facilities of large hotels or resorts. However, those seeking a charming, characterful, and exceptionally hospitable stay will find B&B Hotel Malts to be one of the best options in Haarlem.