Khaizuran RashidThe Netherlands is famous for its tulips and windmills. Yet, it is also a playground for the adventurous traveller with a love for the unconventional. Indeed, from repurposed cranes to gravity-defying cubes and even hotels afloat on the water, this country offers some of the quirkiest places to rest your head!
Whether you’re hoping to relive your childhood fantasies or simply enjoy a stay that’s out of the ordinary, these five hotels promise an experience as memorable as the country’s colourful culture. So, let’s embark on a journey through Dutch hospitality that challenges the norm and tickles your wanderlust.
Also read: 9 Weirdest Buildings Around the World You Should Visit
1. Crane Hotel, Harlingen
Image credit: Fred Romero via Wikimedia Commons
Step aboard a floating relic turned cosy retreat at the Crane Hotel in Harlingen. Once a mighty dockside crane that shifted massive containers, it now houses a luxurious one-bedroom space with modern comforts and a nod to its industrial past. Guests can enjoy an observation deck with panoramic views and even the thrill of operating the actual crane. However, mind the gentle wobble on windy days. This is especially so for those seeking an unexpected twist on traditional accommodation!
2. Hotel Inntel Zaandam, Zaandam
Image credit: Henk Monster via Wikimedia Commons
In Zaandam, Hotel Inntel Zaandam reimagines local heritage with a playful, stacked design. Mimicking the region’s iconic green cottages, this 11-storey wonder features nearly 70 unique facades. They evoke a sense of home while pushing the boundaries of modern architecture. Inside, you’ll find 160 rooms alongside amenities such as Turkish baths, a swimming pool, and a lively bar. Ultimately, this hotel cleverly marries Dutch nostalgia with innovation. Truly, this makes it a perfect spot for travellers who appreciate design with a cheeky twist.
3. Cube Houses, Rotterdam
Image credit: GraphyArchy via Wikimedia Commons
Defying gravity in Rotterdam, the Cube Houses are a marvel of creative urban planning. Each home tilts at an extraordinary 55 degrees and rests on a hexagonal pillar. Indeed, this creates a living experience akin to being on a modern sailboat. With smartly arranged multi-level spaces and one cube even converted into a museum, these striking abodes have become an architectural landmark.
4. Kruisherenhotel, Maastricht
Image credit: Visit Maastricht | Official Website
For those who crave a taste of history blended with luxury, the Kruisherenhotel in Maastricht is a dream come true. Housed in a former 15th-century Gothic church and monastery, this hotel transforms ancient stone and sacred arches into chic guest spaces. The preserved nave now serves as a stylish reception and dining area, while tranquil cloisters offer serene outdoor retreats. Therefore, centuries of history mingle with modern comforts, providing an immersive experience that is both spiritually enriching and indulgently comfortable.
5. Botel, Amsterdam
Image credit: TIP Amsterdam Noord | Official Website
Floating at the vibrant NDSM Wharf in Amsterdam, the Botel is as cheeky as it is charming. This former hotel-boat now sports giant, controversial lettering – each letter transforming into a themed room. Whether you’re cruising in the ‘B’ room with its skater halfpipe or unwinding in the serene ‘L’ room, every detail is designed to surprise. Although its current mooring might raise eyebrows, a short 14-minute free ferry ride from Central Station ensures you’re never far from the heart of Amsterdam. Meanwhile, with fast free WiFi and a friendly atmosphere, the Botel remains a popular choice for budget travellers and adventurous souls alike.
Embracing the Unconventional in Dutch Hospitality
These five hotels encapsulate the spirit of the Netherlands – bold, inventive, and delightfully unpredictable. From the nostalgic thrill of operating a crane to the architectural marvel of tilted cube houses and the floating whimsy of a hotel on a boat, each property offers a unique perspective on what a stay can be.
Embracing unconventional design and innovative concepts, these hotels prove that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing fresh ways of living. So, if you’re in search of a memorable adventure that breaks the mould, the Dutch hotel scene awaits with open arms and plenty of surprises.
