Duinberk B&B Hotel en Brasserie in Schoorl garners praise primarily for its fantastic location. Nestled in the charming center of Schoorl, it allows guests to easily explore local attractions, cozy cafés, restaurants and shops, all just a few steps away. The proximity to nature trails, forests and beaches makes it an appealing choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Parking facilities, both on-site and in a garage, are convenient, albeit requiring a daily fee.
Breakfast is highlighted as a significant advantage of the stay, offering a varied and delicious array including fresh rolls, croissants and freshly squeezed orange juice. While the breakfast could benefit from more variety and a slightly earlier start time, the overall quality and freshness are well received. The option to dine indoors or on the terrace also enhances the experience.
Dinner at the associated brasserie is generally well-received with a small, refined menu featuring dishes like goat cheese and salmon toasts. The dog-friendly policy and excellent customer service add to the positive dining atmosphere, although occasional service hiccups and limited menu options have been noted.
The rooms, housed in an aging but characterful building, offer a cozy and clean environment with comfortable beds and functional bathrooms. However, the décor appears outdated and the maintenance could be significantly improved. Frequent noise due to thin walls and some reports of inadequate heating present challenges. Despite these issues, the rooms are seen as sufficient given their price and location with a pet-friendly rooftop terrace being a nice addition.
Cleanliness at Duinberk B&B is generally praised, especially in the rooms and bathrooms which are often noted as very clean. Nevertheless, some areas, including communal spaces, could benefit from better upkeep and modern touches. Positive interactions with the cleaning staff enhance the experience.
The staff, including the owner, are commended for their friendliness, helpfulness and warm hospitality. Their attentiveness and readiness to assist contribute significantly to the welcoming atmosphere, despite occasional lapses in service.
The beds receive mixed reviews; many guests find them comfortable, while others report issues such as sagging mattresses and noise. Improvements in mattress quality and bed stability are necessary to provide a consistently restful experience.
In conclusion, Duinberk B&B Hotel en Brasserie offers a delightful stay with an excellent location, notable breakfast and warm hospitality, though it stands to benefit from updates and better maintenance to truly elevate the guest experience.
Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant De Oude Gevangenis-Alkmaar is highly acclaimed for its exceptional location, set in a tranquil, green environment close to the bustling city center. This unique hotel, in a restored former prison, provides an intriguing historical backdrop. Guests appreciate its proximity to the charming old town of Alkmaar, convenient walking and cycling paths and nearby practical amenities like a hospital and public transport. The pet-friendly environment adds to its appeal for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
The breakfast at Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant De Oude Gevangenis-Alkmaar is well-received for its varied and plentiful offerings. Guests consistently praise the delicious and fresh food, including croissants and fresh fruit and appreciate the friendly staff and peaceful dining environment. Minor complaints include occasional issues with replenishing items and perceived overpricing, especially at peak times.
The dining experience is also positively noted with high-quality and well-prepared dishes served in a cozy atmosphere. However, some guests find the portions small and the menu limited, particularly for vegetarians. The outdoor dining area and bar enhance the overall experience.
Rooms at the hotel are praised for their spaciousness, stylish decor and comfort, especially the beds. However, cleanliness and maintenance can be inconsistent with reports of dust, mold and noise issues due to thin walls. Despite these drawbacks, the unique ambiance and friendly staff contribute to a generally positive stay.
Cleanliness reviews are mixed with many guests finding the hotel clean and well-maintained, but others pointing out areas needing improvement, such as dust and mold in bathrooms. The housekeeping service sometimes falls short of expectations with issues regarding timely room cleaning and item replenishment.
The staff at Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant De Oude Gevangenis-Alkmaar are frequently described as friendly, helpful and accommodating, contributing significantly to the positive guest experience. Their enthusiasm and politeness, despite some being inexperienced, are commendable with effective communication in Dutch and English enhancing guest satisfaction.
The hotel's WiFi service is reliable and meets most guests' needs, though some felt it could be faster. The gym is spacious, well-equipped and clean, though its opening hours are seen as restrictive by some.
Parking at the hotel offers convenience with onsite options, EV charging stations and covered bicycle storage. However, the additional cost and occasional organizational issues can be a drawback.
The hotel is family-friendly with good facilities for children, including proximity to a children’s farm and family-oriented tours of the former prison. Guests find it comfortable and well-suited for family stays.
Overall, Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant De Oude Gevangenis-Alkmaar stands out for its prime location, unique historical setting, friendly staff and high-quality dining experiences. While there are minor areas needing improvement, the hotel generally provides a charming and comfortable stay for its guests.