Hotel Restaurant Conference Centre la Sonnerie

Housed in a former convent of the Sisters of Charity, Hotel Restaurant Conference Centre la Sonnerie offers a stay with an unmistakably historic character. The name 'La Sonnerie' refers to the old monastery bell, a symbol of the tranquility and history that reigns within the building's thick walls. This 4-star hotel, which has been welcoming guests since 1994, combines this serene atmosphere with the facilities of a modern conference center and a highly acclaimed restaurant. Recently, in 2024, the complex changed ownership and was designated a municipal monument, underscoring its cultural-historical value. The new owner has committed significant investments to modernize and maintain the building, including the rooms, for the future.

The Quality of the Alojamiento

The hospedaje experiences at La Sonnerie are generally positive, but there are some clear caveats that potential guests should consider. The hotel features 38 uniquely decorated accommodations, meaning no two rooms are alike. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and comfortable beds, although some find the mattresses too soft. A common criticism is the lack of modern amenities such as in-room coffee and tea making facilities, a feature many now consider standard in hotels of this caliber. Furthermore, the requirement to shower in a bathtub is often cited, which some guests find less practical or comfortable. The rooms, especially the more affordable ones, can be warm, although some offer a fan to provide cooling. Air conditioning is available in some rooms, a significant advantage on hot days.

Details of the Rooms and Accommodation

When booking a stay, it's good to know that some people find the atmosphere of the former convent and school somewhat austere. This is a matter of personal taste: while some appreciate the historic simplicity, others might miss the opulence of a standard luxury hotel. The functional decor focuses on comfort, but not necessarily on extravagance. For those seeking a unique place to stay with character, this hotel offers more than just a standard apartment or hotel room. However, it's not a modern resort ; its charm lies in the building's authenticity and history.

Culinary Focus: The Restaurant

La Sonnerie receives unanimous praise for its culinary experience. The restaurant and brasserie are highly regarded and, for many guests, the main reason for their visit. The cuisine, which features a blend of French and Dutch influences, is praised for its delicious and culinary dishes. Guests rave about the lunches, à la carte dinners, and special packages, such as an extensive 7-course Christmas dinner that was described as "fantastic." This makes La Sonnerie a destination with the allure of a culinary Posada or Hostería , where the food takes center stage. The bar, open late, offers a cozy spot for a nightcap, and in good weather, guests can enjoy one of the terraces at both the front and side of the building, ensuring there's always a spot in the sun or shade.

Breakfast: A Mixed Picture

Breakfast receives mixed reviews. Many guests are very satisfied, praising the wide selection, the fresh orange juice, and the good coffee. Others find the offerings "reasonable" and the choices not overly extensive. This suggests that the experience can vary depending on personal expectations and possibly the hotel's current level of activity. Nevertheless, breakfast is generally considered more than sufficient to start the day well.

Service, Facilities and Environment

The service at La Sonnerie is consistently cited as a strong point. The staff are described as friendly, welcoming, helpful, and professional. These positive interactions contribute significantly to the overall guest experience. However, there was a known incident involving an administrative error, where drinks were incorrectly charged to the room bill. Although this was corrected, it remains a point of concern.

The hotel offers various facilities to enhance your stay. Free parking is available behind the hotel and there's a bicycle shed, making it an ideal base for hiking and cycling through the surrounding countryside, such as the Sonsche Heide. Three meeting rooms are available for business guests, emphasizing its function as a conference center. Compared to a simple albergue or basic hostale , La Sonnerie offers a much more comprehensive range of services, including a business center and bicycle rentals.

Pros and Cons Weighed

Hotel Restaurant Conference Centre La Sonnerie is a two-faced establishment. On the one hand, there's the unique, atmospheric location in a historic monastery with an absolutely outstanding restaurant that's worth a visit in itself. The friendly service and the convenient location for nature lovers are also major pluses. On the other hand, the accommodations , which, despite their charm, are somewhat lacking in terms of modern amenities. The lack of a coffee maker, the shower in the bathtub, and the variable room temperature are aspects to consider. The price-quality ratio was considered subpar by one guest, suggesting that expectations should be aligned with what's offered: a characterful stay with a focus on gastronomy, not comparable to standardized Apartamentos Vacacionales or luxury Villas . For those who value authenticity and a sublime meal more than the latest room amenities, La Sonnerie is an excellent choice.