House with the Vases

Situated on Assen's historic waterway, the Vaart, stands a building that immediately catches the eye: the House with the Vases. This is no ordinary hotel ; it's a national monument from 1883 that has been given a second life as a Bed & Breakfast. It offers travelers the chance to stay overnight in a piece of Assen's history, complete with the grandeur of 19th-century architecture and the personalized service characteristic of a small-scale stay. The name derives from the two striking sandstone vases that adorn the cornice, a detail that gives the building its unique identity and recognizability. Anyone looking for an anonymous room in a large complex has come to the wrong place. This alojamiento is geared towards guests who value atmosphere, character, and a personal approach.

The accommodations offered

Unlike larger hotels or anonymous resorts , Huis met de Vazen focuses on a limited but highly diverse range of accommodations. The B&B features several uniquely furnished spaces, each with its own character. There are rooms on the top floor with a refined ambiance and views over the canal, and studios and an apartment in the charming basement. This ensures a diverse selection, from an intimate studio to a more spacious two-room apartment.

One option is an apartment (Rooms 1 & 2) that consists of two floors. The living room is on the ground floor, while a spiral staircase leads to the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen in the basement. There are also several studios. Room 4, for example, is a studio in the basement with a private entrance, a spacious kitchen, and even a pellet stove for added ambiance. For guests who prefer more natural light and a view, there are the first-floor accommodations (Rooms 5 and 6). These rooms offer a beautiful view of the water and combine the historic setting with modern comforts, including a private kitchenette and bathroom.

Strong points of House with the Vases

The most praised aspect of this B&B is its unique combination of historic charm and modern comfort. The building has been lovingly restored, preserving original features like high ceilings and large windows, while fully modernizing the amenities, including bathrooms and kitchens. This creates an atmosphere you won't easily find in a standard hostal or albergue .

• The historical experience: Spending the night in a national monument is an experience in itself. Originally designed in an eclectic style for a prosperous soap maker, the building breathes the history of Assen's growth and prosperity in the 19th century. For culture and history enthusiasts, this is a significant added value.
• Personal hospitality: Reviews emphasize the warm and friendly welcome from hosts. This personal touch is a major advantage over the impersonal service of larger chains and significantly enhances the overall experience. It is the essence of a good posada or hostería .
• Prime location: The location on the canal is ideal. It's a quiet, prestigious spot overlooking the water, while Assen's city center, with the Drents Museum, De Nieuwe Kolk theater, and various restaurants, is just a ten-minute walk away. Free on-site parking is also available, a rarity in the city center.
• Variety of accommodations: With a choice of different types of accommodations, from studios to apartments, the B&B can meet a variety of needs. Some rooms have private entrances, offering additional privacy, similar to renting a private apartment or one of the more private villas .

Points of attention for potential guests

While the experience is overwhelmingly positive, there are a few aspects potential guests should consider. These aren't strictly drawbacks, but rather characteristics of the property and the type of host that could influence the choice.

• Character of a listed building: A historic building has charm, but also its own peculiarities. Guests should be aware of elements such as stairs. Access to the upstairs rooms requires the use of a shared staircase. The apartment has an internal spiral staircase. This may be challenging for guests with limited mobility.
• Variation in natural light: As indicated in the descriptions, some units are located in the basement. Studio Room 3 is specifically described as an intimate space with potentially less natural light. Platforms like Airbnb even list this room as having no natural light. This is a crucial detail for guests who value a bright, sunny room.
• Shared spaces: While many rooms are self-contained, the entrance to the upstairs rooms is shared. This is typical of a B&B, but differs from the complete autonomy experienced in apartments vacacionales . It's more like staying in a luxury guesthouse.
• Exclusivity and availability: With a limited number of rooms, the House with the Vases fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Finding a room spontaneously can be difficult. Therefore, it's advisable to book well in advance, something that's less often necessary at larger hotels.

Huis met de Vazen in Assen offers a distinctive accommodation experience that far exceeds a simple overnight stay. It's an excellent choice for travelers looking to trade in a standard hotel room for a stay with a story. The combination of the building's rich history, prime location on the canal, and personalized service makes this alojamiento a memorable destination. It's ideal for culture lovers, couples seeking a romantic getaway, or business travelers looking for something different than a typical business hotel. However, potential guests should be aware of the unique characteristics of the historic building, such as the possible presence of stairs and the varying light levels between rooms. Those seeking the privacy of secluded cabanas will find a different kind of tranquility here: the serene tranquility of a stately mansion in the heart of the city. All in all, Huis met de Vazen is an accommodation that lives up to its excellent reputation by offering an authentic and comfortable experience.