SURF VIBES

Surfing without an ocean? You can do that at Van der Valk Hotel Luxembourg-Arlon. Simply step on a board and catch the perfect wave in a brand new wellness center, where action and relaxation go hand in hand.

TEXT: MARTINE VAN DER DEIJL
PHOTOGRAPHY: NOPOINT STUDIO'S
STYLING: MARTINE REURINGS

This indoor surf center is the first and only at Van der Valk. Here, you can effortlessly catch a perfect wave. The uniform flow in the 8 by 15 meter pool ensures you can continue surfing endlessly. The wave is adjustable in power and height so both beginners and advanced surfers can practice at their own level. If you're standing on a board for the first time, you'll start calmly with balance and posture. If you already have experience, you can work on turns, spinning, and various tricks. Because the wave is constant, you can keep repeating movements and make quick progress. Each surf session involves a small group of participants, but you surf alone on the wave. Additionally, there is always an instructor nearby for guidance and safety. Also nice: the water is pleasantly warm, so a wetsuit is not necessary. You really only need to bring your swim trunks, as a board and possibly a helmet are included in the surf session.

LOWEST FOOTPRINT

The electricity for the motors comes from the hotel's own biogas installation. This installation runs on residual flows such as cow manure and green waste, which are converted into heat and electricity. This makes the indoor surf of Hotel Luxembourg-Arlon the one with the lowest footprint of all indoor surf pools in the world. Energy consumption and water usage are also more efficient compared to other locations. This is due to the innovative technology by Hydrostadium and Flowsurf, who have maximized efficiency without compromising quality. A combination of sustainable entrepreneurship and innovation that suits surfers and Van der Valk.

'EVERYTHING IS DESIGNED WITH COMFORT AND ATTENTION TO EVERY DETAIL'

COMPLETE WELLNESS

The indoor surf is located in the new wellness building, which is entirely wrapped in greenery; it feels like you're in another world here. With its own entrance in the middle of a vast green area, a visit is also accessible without an overnight stay, making it ideal for a nice day out in a relaxed atmosphere. The highly extensive spa with indoor and outdoor pools, various saunas, hamam, jacuzzi, and massage facilities is tastefully decorated. Everything is designed with attention to detail and comfort. The materials are warm and natural, with lots of greenery, natural stone, and large windows giving it an open character. From the fitness room and restaurant, you can look out on the surf, which creates a fun dynamic between action and relaxation. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with plenty of attention to light meals such as grilled eggplant, tagine, and quinoa bowls. Exactly what you want after a surf session or a sauna round. To complete your experience, you can take a walk outside through the large garden of ten hectares.

OLYMPIC SPORT

The hotel will soon open a shop where you can buy surf items such as wax, hardboards, and cool T-shirts. So you have everything at hand to fully get into the surf vibe. Indoor surfing is really for everyone, from children to avid athletes preparing for a surf trip. Surfing is now even an Olympic sport, so who knows, maybe here a seed is planted for an Olympic dream.