No. 19 Bed&Bubbels
BackWhen considering accommodations in the historic city of Middelburg, "Nr. 19 Bed&Bubbels" stands out as an exceptional choice for travelers seeking a blend of monumental grandeur and modern luxury. Housed in a beautiful, historic 17th-century building, this property offers a unique appeal for those seeking a charming hospedaje, far removed from the typical hotel or hostel experience.
The Concept: More than a Standard Bed and Breakfast
The 'Bubbles' Twist
The name "Bed&Bubbels" immediately reveals a key distinguishing feature of this lodging option. Unlike traditional B&Bs, breakfast is not provided here; instead, the owners welcome guests with a welcome glass of bubbly at the adjacent, highly acclaimed restaurant "De Gouden Bock," run by the same owners. This creates a direct connection with the local hospitality industry and offers guests the opportunity to end the evening in style. Key collection also takes place here, an integral part of the check-in process. Although breakfast is not included, the hospitality is enhanced by the proximity to local amenities; for example, sources suggest that guests can easily pick up breakfast supplies from the nearby bakery, butcher, or cheesemonger and then enjoy them in their suite while enjoying the view of Dam Square. Some recent reviews even mention a well-stocked refrigerator upon arrival with, among other things, yogurt, fruit, and muesli, making this a generous addition to the self-catering breakfast option.
Luxury and Comfort in the Suite
The room itself, which could be described more as a complete suite or a luxury apartment, exudes an atmosphere of freshness and tranquility, with a bright and tasteful interior. With a 4.7-star rating based on the first available information, and a strong 8.8/10 based on nearly one hundred stay reviews on other platforms, the general consensus indicates a high level of satisfaction with the quality. Guests praise the "princely" bed and the overall atmosphere as very cozy and luxurious. The suite is equipped with modern amenities one would expect from a high-quality accommodation: free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a Nespresso machine, and a kettle, with complimentary coffee and tea. The bathroom is described as clean, and the presence of a spacious shower is specifically mentioned. The fact that the property has a private entrance contributes to the feeling of privacy, which is essential for a successful stay.
The Location: History as a Background for Your Overnight Stay
The location at Damplein 19, as the high location score of 9.6 on Booking.com confirms, is a huge plus. Damplein itself is no random spot; it's a living reminder of Middelburg's rich trading history. The square is surrounded by fifty monumental old merchant houses, each with a story to tell. The covered grain exchange, a replica of the 18th-century one, is also located here. Despite its central location, visitors remark on the surprisingly low noise levels, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep—a crucial aspect of any overnight stay or hospedaje . Its central location makes it an ideal base. From here, attractions like the Nieuwe Kerk (just 250 meters away) are easily accessible on foot, and shopping streets like Lange Delft are just a short stroll away. For those who want to experience the city's historic center, the proximity of places like the Kuiperspoort and the historic quays provides a direct gateway to the charm of Zeeland. The accommodation is therefore not just a place to sleep, but an integration into the historical fabric of the city, which distinguishes it from a resort or an albergue on the edge of the city.
Suite Details and Amenities
The unique layout of the accommodation includes a spacious bedroom with an adjoining sitting area, giving the suite a residential feel, and a separate bathroom. The large windows are a beloved feature, offering panoramic views of Dam Square. One guest specifically noted how they could comfortably watch the fireworks from this room on New Year's Eve, highlighting the unique perspective the location offers. A kitchenette is provided, but it's important to note that it doesn't offer cooking facilities; it's functional for cooling drinks (with a refrigerator) and preparing a simple breakfast with coffee and tea facilities. The entire experience is tailored to comfort and aesthetics, with the furnishings and amenities seemingly meeting the high expectations of guests seeking a luxury guesthouse or villa experience.
Critical Comments and Points of Attention
While the general consensus is very positive, there are some clear points that potential guests should consider when booking their stay.
Accessibility and Layout
The most significant drawback concerns the physical structure of the historic building. The unique bedroom is reached via a small, elegant staircase. Several sources indicate that this steep staircase unfortunately makes the accommodation unsuitable for elderly guests or guests with limited mobility. This is a fundamental limitation that precludes guests seeking ground-floor accommodation or an apartment without stairs.
Service and Breakfast (The 'Bed & Bubbles' Dilemma)
The lack of a standard breakfast, though compensated for by the "bubbles" and nearby shops, means guests are responsible for their own morning meal. For travelers accustomed to the all-inclusive service of a resort or a fully catered hotel, this can be seen as a drawback. While facilities for preparing a basic breakfast are available, there are no cooking facilities.
Costs and Parking
Another practical consideration is parking. Parking directly in front of the hotel on Damplein is possible, but it's paid and time-limited (approximately €2.90 per hour, maximum 4 hours). An alternative is a nearby parking garage (P5) with a daily rate of around €11. While this is typical for a city center location, this additional cost should be factored into your budget, especially compared to hostels or albergues , which often offer free parking.
Small Physical Details
One previous comment mentioned the possibility that the bed wasn't perfectly level. While this is a minor detail and may have already been addressed, it highlights the challenges inherent in accommodating guests in centuries-old, monumental structures. The low number of reviews (6 from one source) may indicate a small-scale operation, which on the one hand guarantees intimacy, but on the other hand, offers less data to assess the consistency of service over long periods than at a larger resort or hotel.
for the Potential Guest
No. 19 Bed&Bubbels is an excellent choice for couples or solo travelers seeking a high-quality, intimate accommodation experience in a historic setting. It boasts a guesthouse-like setting, yet with the luxury and design of a boutique apartment . The combination of its prime location on Dam Square, stylish décor, generous suite amenities, and the warm welcome from helpful owners makes this a top destination. Those willing to brave the steep stairs, arrange their own breakfast, and accept parking fees will experience an unforgettable stay here, far removed from the anonymous rooms of large-scale resorts. It's the perfect base for exploring Middelburg on foot, where after a day of culture, you can return to an oasis of peace and style in a 17th-century monument.
