The Penthouse Apartments
BackLocated in the iconic Hague Tower, The Penthouse Apartments offers a form of accommodation that immediately grabs attention. It's not a standard stay; the concept revolves entirely around offering a high-altitude experience, with panoramic views of The Hague and its surroundings as its main selling point. This isn't a traditional hotel , but a collection of spacious vacation apartments focused on independence and a "home away from home" feeling. The potential is enormous, but the execution has proven to be patchy in practice.
The Attraction: View and Space
The most praised feature of The Penthouse Apartments is undoubtedly the phenomenal view. Guests describe it as breathtaking and spectacular, a unique way to see the city and the coastline. The apartments themselves are considered very spacious, with studios starting at 78m² and larger XL apartments of 102m². This space, combined with a comfortable bed and a pleasant mist shower, creates a feeling of luxury. The amenities contribute to the comfort of both short and long stays; the presence of a washing machine, dryer, dishwasher, and a fully equipped kitchen is appreciated by many guests. This type of hospedaje is therefore ideal for guests who are looking for more than just standard rooms and prefer the independence of their own apartment .
Variability in Service and Maintenance
While the physical space receives much praise, the operational side of The Penthouse Apartments is a mixed bag. There are examples of excellent service. For example, a guest whose "cinema experience" didn't work properly was compensated with a free new stay. Another guest's complaint about a failed dinner was taken seriously and resolved satisfactorily, demonstrating the management's ability to rectify mistakes in a courteous manner. This flexibility and customer focus are definite plus points.
On the other hand, experiences point to inconsistency and accessibility issues. One guest reported difficulty receiving the digital key code and initially couldn't reach reception or 24/7 service. This is a significant drawback for a concept that relies heavily on digital access. Experiences with the associated catering services, such as high tea, also vary considerably. While one visitor had a wonderful experience, another felt fobbed off on a subsequent visit with inferior quality, smaller portions, and unexpected costs for coffee and tea.
A Critical Look at Hygiene and State of Maintenance
A recurring point of criticism is the state of maintenance and cleanliness. Despite the luxurious appearance, there are serious drawbacks. One guest noted that the apartment could be cleaner, with the unfortunate detail being dirty windows that obstructed the beautiful view. Furthermore, a broken window, a loose faucet, and even mold in the shower caulk were reported. Such shortcomings detract from the premium experience one would expect from such a property and are not in keeping with the image of a luxury resort . For potential guests who value impeccable cleanliness, this could be a deal-breaker.
The Culinary Experience: Heaven or Hell?
The Penthouse's dining venue has received both praise and harsh criticism in the past. There are stories of delicious four-course dinners served in the room and a successful return visit after a previous disappointment. However, the negative reviews are harsh. One guest described the staff as unfriendly and the food as subpar, with cold salmon and tough steak that didn't justify the high price. Another disastrous experience involved a Valentine's Day dinner where courses were forgotten, the wrong dishes were served, and there were errors on the bill. These extremes suggest that the dining experience can be a gamble, which is unfortunate for a venue with so much potential. It is unclear whether the restaurant and sky bar operations will continue in the same form, as there are indications that they have been closed since 2022 and the focus is now entirely on the apartments .
Who is The Penthouse Apartments Suitable for?
This alojamiento is ideal for travelers who prioritize views and space. It offers a unique experience you won't easily find in other hotels or hostals . It's not an intimate posada or rural hostería ; the atmosphere is urban and modern. The self-contained apartments make it an excellent choice for longer stays or for those who prefer self-catering. However, you should be prepared to accept potential inconsistencies in service and maintenance. Those expecting the impeccable perfection of a traditional five-star stay may be disappointed. It's a unique form of hospedaje that, with more attention to detail and consistency, could be truly unbeatable. Don't expect rural cabañas , secluded villas , or a basic albergue ; The Penthouse Apartments is an urban skyscraper experience with both highs and lows.