Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant Marknesse

The Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant Marknesse presents itself as a modern addition to the Flevoland landscape, housed in a building with a remarkable history. The building once housed the Hydraulics Laboratory, a site where crucial research was conducted for the world-famous Delta Works. This transformation from a technically and historically significant office building to a welcoming accommodation adds an extra dimension to your stay that is hard to find elsewhere. The hotel has been fully modernized and made more sustainable, resulting in a contemporary look and comfort, and has even received a BREEAM-NL Excellent certificate for sustainability.

The Rooms: Modern Comfort with Quirks

The hotel has 112 rooms, which guests generally describe as modern, clean, attractive, and pleasant. The beds are often praised for their comfort and softness, and the well-functioning climate control and a balcony in each room are welcome bonuses. For families looking for a suitable stay , the "family deluxe room" offers a practical solution; these are two rooms with a connecting door, allowing for both privacy and connection.

The design of the rooms , however, is a point of contention. The choice of an "open bathroom," with the sink located in the sleeping area, is considered stylish and attractive by some. Others, however, find it impractical. A specific and frequently mentioned drawback is the lighting of the mirror above the sink, which, according to reception, cannot be switched off by default. This can be very disruptive during sleep. The height of the sink is also a bit low for taller guests. The shower, enclosed by a glass door and positioned directly opposite a large mirror, is another design element that divides opinions; while some consider it a clever and spacious solution, others may find it an invasion of privacy.

Gastronomy and Service: A Story with Two Sides

The culinary offerings and service at Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant Marknesse seem to evoke mixed feelings among visitors. The restaurant, Bar Bistro Duco Marknesse, has a trendy atmosphere with a large open kitchen and a lakeside terrace where guests can enjoy the view in good weather. Specialties are prepared in a Josper charcoal oven. Some guests particularly appreciate the atmosphere, especially during holidays like Christmas, when the entire hotel is decorated for a special occasion. The staff is also regularly described as very friendly, hospitable, and helpful.

However, there are significant criticisms, particularly regarding breakfast. Several visitors described their experience as a major disappointment. The main complaints focus on a staff shortage, which negatively impacts the quality and atmosphere. The menu is described as too basic, with examples such as dry pancakes and eggs that are difficult to peel due to the lack of "scharmen" (scratching). A particularly disturbing factor mentioned by one guest was a female staff member who complained loudly in the kitchen throughout the entire breakfast session, which could be heard in the restaurant. These kinds of incidents, combined with inexperienced staff clearing tables and a seemingly understaffed kitchen, lead to the conclusion that the breakfast's value for money is not always good. This criticism contrasts with other reviews that specifically mention an excellent breakfast buffet with perfectly cooked bacon and delicious sugar bread. It therefore appears that experiences can vary considerably.

Facilities and Surroundings

In addition to the standard hotel facilities, this establishment also offers two function rooms for business meetings or festive gatherings, accommodating up to 290 people. Its location is a key advantage, directly adjacent to the Waterloopbos, a nature reserve managed by Natuurmonumenten (Dutch Society for Nature Conservation), where the remains of the hydraulic engineering test rigs can still be seen. This makes it an ideal base for guests seeking a type of hospedaje close to nature. The proximity of Weerribben-Wieden National Park and the option to rent e-bikes at the hotel further enhance this advantage. While it is not a traditional resort and does not offer detached cabañas or holiday apartments , it serves as a comfortable base camp for exploring the region.

Potential and Points of Attention

Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant Marknesse is a hotel with two faces. On the one hand, it boasts a unique, sustainably renovated building with a rich history, offering modern and comfortable rooms in a beautiful, peaceful location. The friendliness of the staff is often praised, and the basics for a pleasant stay are absolutely present. It's a type of accommodation that distinguishes itself from a standard hostel or guesthouse with its modern facilities and unique character.

On the other hand, there are clear considerations for potential guests. The specific design choices in the room, such as the open sink and the non-switchable mirror lighting, are a matter of taste and tolerance. More importantly, the inconsistency in service, particularly during breakfast, is a concern. The reported issues surrounding staff behavior and food quality are significant. For travelers seeking a unique location and modern rooms, this hotel can be an excellent choice. However, those who value a flawless and consistent dining and service experience would be wise to consult the most recent reviews before booking this particular type of accommodation .