ON THE WAY TO THE NORTH

Although the Netherlands is small in size, it has a surprisingly varied landscape and characteristic cities. The province of Groningen, for example, is known for its tranquility and vast open spaces. Explore nature or enjoy the lively atmosphere of the charming university city of Groningen. Discover it all from the recently renovated Van der Valk Hotel Groningen-Hoogkerk.

TEXT: EVA VAN MEIJL
PHOTOGRAPHY: NOPOINT STUDIO'S, ROB VAN DER VOORT

In the expansive province of Groningen, you will find various nature reserves including salt marshes and marshland. Also located here is the vibrant provincial capital of the same name. With more than 50,000 students, Groningen has one of the largest universities in the country. In the city center with medieval alleys, cozy corners, pleasant shopping streets, and market squares, this city is understandably popular for a weekend getaway or longer. How nice is it then to stay in a place where peace and comfort are central?

LUXURY ROOMS AND WELLNESS

Hotel Groningen-Hoogkerk is located on the outskirts of the city, with the De Onlanden nature reserve next door, allowing you to explore both worlds. 'From the hotel, you can cycle to Forum Groningen in just under twenty minutes, in the heart of the city. Furthermore, a bus departs next to the hotel six times an hour to the center,' says director Stijn Langebeek. Recently, the new building was opened, giving Hotel Groningen-Hoogkerk even more to offer. 'The new hotel wing includes 65 deluxe, superior, and premium rooms with various extras for each type, such as a whirlpool bath and built-in Bluetooth sound system. These rooms have been actively reserved by guests who want just a bit more since their completion. This spring, the luxury wellness area also opened, truly an asset for the hotel. Here you can enjoy the heated indoor pool, steam bath, and sauna. In addition, massages and body treatments can be booked. Next to the wellness area, you will find the new fitness area with modern strength equipment and free weights, where personal training sessions are also possible, and there is even a small outdoor gym. Both hotel guests and locals enjoy working out here.' The capacity of the rooms has been expanded with the new building, providing more options for events. 'Now that there is room for up to 500 people, we have more parties, such as dinner shows and live music. That also attracts people from the region.'

''THE NEW LUXURY SPA IS TRULY AN ASSET FOR THE HOTEL''

BRASSERIE CHÉRIE

Another beautiful addition is Brasserie Chérie, for something to eat or a drink to end the day. Stijn: 'With Chérie, we have a full-fledged extra space with a bar and cozy seating areas. For a classic dinner, take a seat in the restaurant. The dishes focus as much as possible on seasonal and sustainable ingredients.'

Sustainability is an important theme for Hotel Groningen-Hoogkerk. Since 2019, the hotel has even held the title of 100% climate-neutral. Naturally, environmental focus was a priority in the new building. 'The latest technologies have been applied to build everything as environmentally friendly as possible. The roof is full of solar panels, and we now have an even larger charging area for electric cars, including fast chargers and special Tesla charging stations. There is also a solar panel carport where guests can park under cover. We are proud that we have managed to maintain the title of 100% climate-neutral for seven years.'

And, last but not least, the terrace at the restaurant has been renewed. With a view of nature, this place invites you for a nice drink after a day out. Whether you are staying here for the city or want to go into nature, you will find it all close together. Stijn: 'A fun detail is that the hotel is officially located in Groningen and the parking area in Drenthe. From our hotel, you can discover everything these two provinces have to offer!'