Van der Valk Hotel Spier – Dwingeloo

Van der Valk Hotel Spier - Dwingeloo is currently undergoing a significant transformation. This renowned establishment, part of the prestigious "Valk Exclusief" line, is undergoing a large-scale renovation expected to last four years. For potential guests, this means a stay here offers a two-faced experience: the promise of a completely renewed future, and the reality of a temporary setup amid construction. This analysis highlights the hotel 's current strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to make an informed choice regarding your accommodation .

The Temporary Reality: Living with the Renovation

The most striking feature of the hotel at the moment is the renovation. Large parts of the complex have been or are being demolished to make way for new construction. To continue operations, management has implemented a clever solution: a pop-up building in the parking lot, called "De Kleine Spier." This building now houses the reception and restaurant. Guests who have dined there are generally positive, describing it as atmospheric, pleasantly warm, and neatly decorated, with delicious food. The hotel is praised for its proactive communication; guests are often informed about the renovation immediately after booking, which demonstrates transparency.

However, this temporary setup also has its drawbacks. A common complaint is the distance from the living quarters to the pop-up restaurant. Guests have to walk about 200 meters outside. In bad weather or cold, this can be a significant inconvenience. Furthermore, the site is clearly a construction site, which can detract from the overall atmosphere. Another point of criticism is the parking; several visitors described finding a free spot as a challenge. The signage to the temporary reception area is also not always clear, which can cause confusion upon arrival.

Comfort and Luxury in the Habitaciones and Suites

Despite the renovation, the quality of the hotel itself remains a strong point. The hotel has approximately 110 rooms, ranging from comfort and deluxe rooms to family rooms and luxury suites. Many of the rooms have already been renovated and are described by guests as spacious, clean, and comfortable, with excellent beds. For those seeking a stay approaching the luxury of villas or private vacation homes , the hotel offers several themed suites. The 'Forest Suite,' for example, offers stunning views of the adjacent Dwingelderveld National Park and is equipped with a two-person whirlpool and a private sauna. The 'Dubai Suite' immerses guests in an oriental atmosphere. These luxurious options make the hotel an attractive choice for a romantic stay or for guests seeking extra comfort.

Facilities: Wellness, Swimming Pool and Restaurant

The Van der Valk Hotel Spier - Dwingeloo positions itself as more than just a place to stay; it's a full-fledged resort with a variety of facilities. The wellness center is a key part of the experience, featuring a Finnish sauna, a steam bath, and a pool called "De Bron van Spier," which features an atmospheric mosaic and offers forest views. Please note that swimwear is required for the sauna and steam bath. These facilities will remain available to guests during the renovation.

The dining experience at the temporary restaurant "De Kleine Spier" is generally rated as good. Both breakfast and dinner received praise. However, there are also some criticisms. Some guests reported that service can sometimes be slow and that it's difficult to get the staff's attention. It seems that the flow of service isn't always optimal, despite the staff being described as friendly. One guest suggested offering smaller lunch dishes for seniors or those with smaller appetites, similar to the children's menus.

The Future: A Look at the New Hotel

The current inconveniences are temporary and will make way for an impressive expansion. The plans for the next four years are ambitious. The new main building will house not only a restaurant, bar, and reception, but also bowling alleys, private cinemas, an indoor playground, and even long-stay apartments. A tower nearly thirty meters high will be built with four suites offering panoramic views of Dwingelderveld National Park. Phase two includes a completely new wellness wing with a fitness room, a new swimming pool, and treatment rooms. This investment demonstrates the ambition to become a destination that offers a wide range of activities year-round, regardless of the weather. This is a development that will further differentiate itself from more basic accommodations such as hostals , albergues , or posadas .

Is a Stay Now Worth It?

Booking at the Van der Valk Hotel Spier - Dwingeloo is currently a choice with caveats. Guests must be prepared to accept the drawbacks of a large-scale renovation: the sight of a construction site, the outdoor walk to the restaurant, and potential parking issues. Those who can look past these limitations, however, will find a hotel that does its utmost to minimize disruption. The quality of the renovated accommodations is high, the luxurious suites offer an excellent experience, and the temporary restaurant facilities are attractive and of high quality. The staff is friendly, and communication about the situation is clear. For travelers seeking a comfortable and luxurious stay and willing to accept the current circumstances, this hotel still offers a pleasant stay, with the exciting prospect of what's to come.