Rotterdam Balloon Company
© G.Lanting
11 Historical Hotels in Rotterdam with a rich History
by Rotterdam Balloon Company, 2024-02-17
Table of Contents
Disclaimer: We receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.
Rotterdam, a city steeped in rich history and vibrant modern life, is home to a wealth of historic hotels that have stood the test of time and still shine with their unique stories. These hotels are more than just places to stay; they are living witnesses of the past, where hospitality goes hand in hand with heritage.
From majestic buildings that reflect the glory of the past to charming boutique hotels that provide an intimate insight into bygone times, each of these historic gems tells a unique story. From the port industry to the cultural revival after World War II, Rotterdam's hotels have mirrored the ups and downs of the city and contributed to its distinctive charm.
In this article, we take a dive into some of Rotterdam's most intriguing historic hotels, where each room tells a chapter of the city's history. From lavish interiors to fascinating anecdotes, these hotels embody Rotterdam's heritage and offer an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a touch of nostalgia mixed with modern luxury. Get ready to step back in time as we open the doors to some of Rotterdam's most iconic accommodations.
Hotel New York
Hotel New York, an icon at Kop van Zuid since 1901, embodies a rich history dating back to the glory days of the Holland America Line. From this imposing building, which once served as the administrative center of NASM, countless journeys to the United States were planned and departed. The evolution of Hotel New York reflects the dynamic development of Rotterdam itself. From its humble beginnings as an administrative building, designed by J. Muller and C.M. Droogleever Fortuyn, to the iconic hotel-restaurant it is today, every phase of its transformation is steeped in meaning and memories. The building underwent several transformations, including the addition of the characteristic tower in 1913 and the later conversion into a hotel-restaurant in 1991. After a period of vacancy and the involvement of squatters, Hotel New York was revitalized thanks to the vision of hospitality entrepreneurs Daan van der Have, Hans Loos, and Dorine de Vos, with support from the municipality of Rotterdam. Since its official opening in 1993, Hotel New York has played a central role in Rotterdam's cultural and social landscape, with highlights such as the establishment of the Water Taxi in 1993 and the celebration of its 25th anniversary in 2018. As a guardian of memories of bygone times and an embodiment of Rotterdam's resilience and innovation, Hotel New York remains an essential part of the city.
SS Rotterdam
The legendary former flagship of the Holland America Line, the ss Rotterdam, is a living testament to maritime grandeur and rich history. With its impressive dimensions of 228 meters long, 28 meters wide, and 51 meters high, this ship has fascinated and inspired generations. From its construction in the 1950s to the recent renovations under the care of WestCord Hotels, the ss Rotterdam has undergone a journey parallel to the development of modern shipping. Once a symbol of transatlantic crossings and luxurious cruises, the ss Rotterdam has found a new purpose as vibrant cultural heritage and one of Rotterdam's most beloved attractions after a period of dormancy.
Room Mate Bruno
Room Mate Bruno Hotel, located in the historic Pakhuismeesteren, a former tea warehouse of the Dutch East India Company, forms a lively tribute to Rotterdam's maritime history. With its origins dating back to 1941, this iconic building embodies an era of trade and shipping that marked the city. Designed by interior designer Teresa Sapey, the hotel exudes a unique atmosphere of nautical heritage mixed with contemporary elegance. The name Bruno, inspired by an adventurous captain, invites guests to explore the city under his character's guidance. Strategically located along the banks of the Maas, Room Mate Bruno offers not only a luxurious retreat but also a tangible connection to Rotterdam's past, bringing the rich heritage of Pakhuismeesteren to life in every corner of the hotel.
Grand Hotel Central
Grand Hotel Central, one of the two buildings on the Kruiskade that survived the bombing of Rotterdam in 1940, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1917 by Mr. Allard. Originally with 64 rooms, a spacious kitchen, and a large restaurant, it was known as the best fireproof hotel in Rotterdam. After being taken over by the municipal mortgage bank and a period of vacancy, it was revitalized in 1935 by Mr. A. Phillipsen, who expanded the hotel with 45 rooms. Unfortunately, this expansion was bombed during World War II and was not rebuilt due to German restrictions. In the 1950s, the hotel underwent a modern renovation to meet the needs of guests. After various owners and adjustments, including the closure of the restaurant due to lack of profit, the hotel flourished again under the current operator, who took over in the early 21st century. With its monumental facade, Grand Hotel Central remains a historic gem in the heart of Rotterdam.
Hotel Atlanta
Hotel Atlanta, built between 1929 and 1931 to a design by architect Frans van der Togt in the Art Deco style, officially opened its doors on May 2, 1931, under its original name Grand Hotel Moderne. Managed by hospitality entrepreneur Dirk Reese, the hotel offered luxury accommodation with modern amenities such as central heating, telephone, and radio in every room, and a glass dome on the roof terrace with a wide view of the city. The building, largely unscathed by the 1940 bombing of Rotterdam, was expanded and adapted after the war, including a modernist extension in 1965. During the 1960s, the hotel also organized events for the remaining Jewish audience in the city. In 1998, the hotel was designated as a municipal monument, and in 2016, there were plans to renovate it and build a residential tower behind the hotel, although the realization of these plans remained uncertain.
The Slaak Rotterdam, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
The Slaak Hotel Rotterdam, located at the historic site of Gedempte Slaak, has a rich history centered on freedom of expression, a free press, and individuality. At this location, two important newspapers were published: "Voorwaarts" and later "Het Vrije Volk." The name Slaak refers to the former Slaakvaart, a quiet waterway where boats took shelter during storms, and after being filled in 1901, it became known as Gedempte Slaak. In 1907, the iconic Volksgebouw of the Workers' Cooperative 'Voorwaarts' was opened, designed by H.P. Berlage, where the newspaper of the same name was later printed. After losing part of the building during the 1940 bombing and its post-war reconstruction, the printing office continued, and Het Vrije Volk was carried on. In the 1950s and 1960s, Het Vrije Volk was a prominent newspaper linked to the socialist movement. After various changes and mergers, the building served multiple purposes, including as the Slaakhuys, before being transformed in 2019 into the design boutique hotel The Slaak Rotterdam, a tribute to the site's rich history.
Hotel van Walsum
Hotel van Walsum, housed in three buildings on Mathenesserlaan dating back to 1895, embodies a tradition of hospitality and modernization. Originally established as a boarding house in 1936 by widow A.E. van Walsum, it was taken over by Teun van Dam in 1955, after which his son Frans van Dam took over the hotel in 1964, followed by the third generation, Anton and Jos, in 1998. Since then, the hotel has undergone a continuous cycle of renovations and modernization, with annual updates being implemented. Recently, in 2010, the entrance, bar, restaurant, and lobby were modernized, and a new elevator was installed. Located on historic grounds with a rich history dating back to 1276, Hotel van Walsum embodies both tradition and progress, a symbol of timeless hospitality in the heart of Rotterdam.
Savoy Hotel
The Savoy Hotel Rotterdam, located in the characteristic post-war district of Hoogkwartier, is a contemporary city hotel with a rich history dating back to the reconstruction period. As an iconic part of this special neighborhood, the hotel is steeped in the atmosphere of reconstruction, which forms both the common thread of its history and its current character. To preserve this unique ambiance, all 95 rooms have been thoroughly renovated, featuring a touch of nostalgia from the post-war era. The building itself also dates from that period and, as a four-star hotel, offers modern amenities with a charming glimpse into Rotterdam's past.
Bilderberg Parkhotel Rotterdam
The Bilderberg Parkhotel, located on the Westersingel since 1922, exudes classical grandeur that dates back to its origin in 1865 as a city villa. For decades, it served as a refuge for Rotterdam's affluent citizens, and even during World War II, it remained intact, along with part of the original owners' private collection, including classic oil paintings that still adorn the bar, lobby, and restaurant. Following a major renovation in 2014/2015, which fused contemporary art and modern decor with the old grandeur, the hotel boasts a unique combination of international flair and historical character. It features not only an impressive art collection inside but also a striking artwork on the exterior of the building, called "The Individual Parallel" by artist Willem Oorebeek, while being surrounded by various museums, including Boijmans Van Beuningen.
Suitehotel Pincoffs
Suitehotel Pincoffs is located in a monumental building completed in 1879 and now restored to its former glory, previously serving as a customs office and now a luxury hotel. The building, designed in an eclectic style by architect J.S.C. van der Wall, marks the corner of Koningshaven and Binnenhaven/Entrepothaven with representative facades on both quays. As part of the trading area of the Rotterdamsche Handelsvereeniging, it played a crucial role in Rotterdam's development into a world port under the leadership of RHV director Lodewijk Pincoffs. After years of vacancy and neglect, the building was transformed into Suitehotel Pincoffs in 2008, a project made possible by Stadsherstel, Wessel de Jonge Architects, and subsidies from various government agencies. The hotel offers 17 luxury suites, a meeting room, a hotel bar, and a living area, highlighting the history of the customs office and Lodewijk Pincoffs in various ways. As one of the best-rated hotels in Rotterdam, Suitehotel Pincoffs remains a tribute to the city's past and its role in world trade.
Bed, Bites & Business Hotel
The Bed, Bites & Business Hotel is located in the historic Fenixloodsen in Rotterdam, originally built in 1923 as 'San Francisco,' then the largest port storage sheds in the world. After a devastating fire during World War II and subsequent reconstruction, Heijmans redeveloped the Fenix I shed into a versatile complex with apartments, offices, shops, restaurants, and a boutique hotel. The hotel itself, with luxury rooms that combine modern elegance with a nod to the industrial past of the sheds, offers guests a unique experience with stunning views of the metropolitan skyline of Rotterdam and an atmosphere reflecting the history of the location.
Tags
Click on a tag for an overview of articles with the same topic.
hotel history
Comments 0
_DSCF3888.jpg){kind=link}