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Summary of reviewsVan der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp stands out as a well-located establishment appreciated by both leisure and business travelers. Its proximity to Blijdorp Zoo, easy accessibility from Rotterdam Airport and nearby public transport make it ideal for exploring the city. The hotel scores well on convenience with its ample and reasonably priced parking facilities.
The breakfast experience is frequently lauded for its variety and quality, featuring a rich buffet, although some guests find it pricey. Dinner at the hotel also receives high praise for its delicious meals with particular highlights including themed dinners before events like the marathon. Nonetheless, some dining experiences are marked by long waits and occasional service hiccups.
Rooms at the hotel offer spaciousness and comfort with many guests appreciating the modern decor and practical amenities. However, there are mentions of outdated structures and minor maintenance issues affecting the overall perception. Cleanliness satisfaction varies significantly among guests with some applauding the tidiness while others report lapses, particularly with carpets and bathrooms.
Guest feedback about the staff is predominantly positive with many commending their friendliness and helpfulness, especially within the restaurant. Yet, some inconsistencies in attentiveness, mainly during check-in, have been noted. The free WiFi service is generally perceived as reliable, though inconsistencies in signal strength and a lack of adequate power outlets warrant attention.
The hotel's family-friendly policies make it a popular choice for those traveling with children, offering spacious rooms and convenient amenities like adjacent room preferences and child-friendly dining options. Its location near the zoo and provision for bicycle rentals further enhance its appeal.
While the beds are generally regarded as comfortable, there are occasional reports of issues with mattress quality and bed-making standards. The hotel's adherence to its four-star rating draws mixed feedback with some guests feeling that certain aspects, such as food quality, could better reflect the expected standards.
In summary, Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp provides a comfortable and convenient stay in a prime location with commendable breakfast and dining options, friendly staff and family-friendly amenities. Addressing the inconsistencies in room maintenance and cleanliness, enhancing WiFi and power outlet availability and ensuring service quality can further elevate the guest experience. Show more
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Family Friendly Hotel
This hotel is near Blijdorp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands. The zoo has discovery trails and activities for all ages. The hotel offers spacious rooms suitable for families.
Dog Friendly Hotel
This hotel allows pets of any size for an additional fee. It is located next to the Blijdorp Zoo and Roel Langerakpark, providing ample space for dogs to run freely. The fee is 10 EUR per pet per night.
Business Hotel
While specific business amenities are not detailed in the provided context, Van der Valk hotels generally offer comprehensive services, making it suitable for business travelers.
Hotel with Parking
This hotel offers free on-site parking with ample spaces, ensuring a worry-free experience for guests. It also provides four electric vehicle charging stations, catering to eco-friendly travelers.
EV charging stations
Accessible Hotel
This hotel receives positive remarks for its accessibility, with easy access by car and ample parking. It is also well connected by public transport and features wheelchair accessibility and accessible bathrooms.
4-Star Hotel
This hotel offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. Its location near the Blijdorp Zoo makes it a family-friendly option.
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
Hotel for Honeymoon
Romantic Hotel
Room Types
Classic Double RoomIncludes a flat-screen TV, a work desk and free Wi-Fi. The private bathroom comes with a shower and hairdryer.
Please note that this room does not accommodate extra beds.
Please note that some rooms feature views on the lobby. The windows cannot be opened.
Superior Double or Twin RoomSpacious rooms including a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and a work desk.
Please note that some rooms feature views on the lobby. The windows cannot be opened.
Executive Double RoomSpacious room with park views, a large work desk and free internet.
The hotel features multiple Executive rooms. 2x for families with extra beds and 2x with a sitting area without extra beds. The guest will be given the room which is available at the time of booking. Please note if when booking for more than 2 people, the seating area will be removed and extra beds will be placed here. When booking for 1 or 2 people in the Family Executive room, please note that there is no seating area.
Junior SuiteA spacious suite with a living room including a flat-screen TV and a work desk. Free WiFi is provided.
The hotel features 2 different Junior Suites and the availability depends upon the time of booking.
SuiteExtra large suites with a spacious, separate room featuring a flat-screen TV and a work desk. Free Wi-Fi is available as well.
The hotel features 2 different Suites: Family Suite and Business Suite. The guest will be given the room which is available at the time of booking. When given the Business suite for more than 2 people, please note that the table will be removed and extra beds will be placed in the room. When booking for just 1 or 2 persons and only the Family suite is available, there will be no table in the room.
Quadruple RoomThe spacious quadruple room features air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, as well as a private bathroom boasting a walk-in shower and a bidet. The quadruple room provides a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, a carpeted floor, heating, as well as a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The unit has 3 beds.
Luxury Quadruple RoomFeaturing free toiletries, this quadruple room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, a bidet and a hairdryer. The quadruple room features air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, as well as a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The unit has 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
7.7
Good
Location
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp boasts a prime location that garners praise from numerous guests. Its vicinity to Blijdorp Zoo and easy accessibility from Rotterdam Airport and the city center make it an ideal base for both leisure and business travelers. Public transport options are convenient with bus stops nearby that offer quick routes to central attractions. Guests appreciate the tranquility of the neighborhood, balancing the quiet ambiance with the proximity to bustling city life.
The hotel is also within walking distance of various shops and a short drive or bike ride to visit all Rotterdam has to offer. Additionally, the strategic location is beneficial for marathon participants and those visiting nearby family or businesses. With ample and reasonably priced parking facilities, the hotel is easily reachable by car. The combination of a central yet peaceful setting, combined with the easy reach to major roads and highways, ensures convenience and comfort for guests.
Breakfast
The breakfast at Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp consistently receives high praise from guests for its variety and quality. Visitors frequently commend the extensive selection of baked breads, cereals, fruits and other options catering to different diets. Many describe the breakfast as delicious, superb and well-organized, making special mentions of the particularly rich and varied buffet.
Despite the acclaim for the quality and variety, a recurring point of contention is the high price of the breakfast. Several guests felt that the cost did not reflect the value received, noting it as an expensive addition to their stay. Some found alternative breakfast spots in the vicinity to be more reasonably priced.
The ambiance of the breakfast area also garners positive mentions with beautiful restaurant décor and a pleasant terrace enhancing the morning meal experience. However, a few reviews highlighted issues such as empty bowls, chaotic organization during peak times and occasional lapses in the quality of specific items like egg dishes and baked goods.
Overall, while the breakfast offering at Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp is celebrated for its delicious and extensive options, the associated cost remains a significant consideration for guests.
Dinner
The dining experience at Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp generally receives positive feedback from guests with numerous mentions of delicious and tasty food. Many visitors highlight the quality of the meals as above average and some describe their dinner as exceptional and far beyond expectations. The pasta buffet before the marathon and the BBQ dinner featuring various cuts of steak and lobster were particularly appreciated. Guests often remark on the good quality and delicious nature of the dishes with many enjoying an à la carte meal or a cozy dinner with festive decorations.
However, a few reviews mention some drawbacks, such as long waits for dinner and instances where the price did not match the quality of the food. Some guests felt the dining options were limited and there were occasional reports of incomplete orders or the necessity to pick up food themselves due to understaffing.
Despite these issues, the restaurant stands out as a highlight for many, offering a good and varied menu at reasonable prices. The dining experience is complemented by an excellent breakfast, adding to the overall positive culinary experience at the hotel.
Rooms
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp has a mix of reviews regarding its rooms with a blend of positive experiences and some areas needing improvement. Many guests appreciated the spaciousness of the rooms, often mentioning that they are clean, modern and well-equipped with comfortable beds and practical amenities such as coffee machines and kettles. Some rooms offer peaceful views and a comfortable sleeping environment, contributing to a pleasant stay.
However, several guests noted that the rooms, along with the hotel’s general structure, appear somewhat outdated and in need of renovation. Some rooms had minor issues, such as malfunctioning TVs, broken door locks and musty smells. The temperature control also seemed problematic with rooms often being too warm.
While cleanliness was a common praise, a few reviews highlighted instances where the room cleanliness was below the expected standard. Some guests reported that the rooms were not cleaned properly before their arrival and there were mentions of dust and worn-out facilities.
Despite these drawbacks, the hotel’s prime location near the city center and zoo and its large, open lobby, were frequently noted positives. The spacious bathrooms with good showers and toilets also garnered commendations, suggesting that with some refurbishments, the rooms could better meet the high expectations typically associated with Van der Valk hotels.
Beds
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp has garnered mixed feedback from guests regarding its beds, yet many highlight positive experiences. A significant portion of visitors praised the beds for being large, comfortable and clean. The bedding was noted to be cozy and inviting, contributing to an enjoyable stay. Some found the mattresses to have just the right firmness, which enhanced their overall comfort. The spacious rooms and quality of sleep received favorable comments, often paired with mentions of a good bed within a nice room setting.
However, some criticisms were reported, such as beds occasionally being poorly made or mattresses sagging. There were instances where the mattress topper would slide off, impacting sleep quality. Some guests found the beds too soft, while others cited discomfort due to hard or low mattresses. Despite these issues, the general consensus leans towards a satisfactory sleeping experience with many patrons appreciating the comfort and cleanliness of the beds and the rooms.
Cleanliness
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp features a superb location, making it highly convenient for guests to explore Rotterdam. Many guests noted its modern decor and described the rooms as spacious and comfortable. While some rooms were praised for being very clean and tidy, the cleanliness of the hotel was inconsistent overall.
Guests highlighted that the room hygiene and general cleanliness could greatly vary with some finding their rooms spotlessly clean and others experiencing issues such as dusty surfaces, dirty carpets and neglected bathrooms. Specific areas of concern included the carpets in hallways and rooms, which were frequently mentioned as stained and in need of better maintenance. Bathrooms also received mixed reviews with some guests finding them clean, while others reported issues like mold, limescale and remaining hair from previous visitors.
Despite the beautiful and modern appearance of the hotel, it seems that the attention to detailed cleaning was lacking in some instances. The cleaning staff were described as needing more time and resources to ensure all areas met a higher standard of hygiene.
Overall, Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp offers comfort and modern amenities in an excellent location, though attention to thorough, consistent cleaning could enhance guest satisfaction.
Staff
The staff at Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp garners generally positive feedback for their friendliness and helpfulness across various departments. Guests frequently highlight the attentiveness and accommodating nature of the employees, particularly the reception and restaurant staff. The reception team has been noted for granting requests promptly and many mentioned the reception staff as friendly, polite and professional.
Despite these positive remarks, some guests reported inconsistencies in the attentiveness and warmth of the staff, particularly during check-in, which several found to be formal and lacking a warm welcome. There were occasional reports of unfriendliness from certain members of the team with specific references to a lack of customer service skills and a need for better training among a few staff members. However, these negative experiences seem to be outliers against the more widespread praise for the staff's friendliness and professional demeanor.
The restaurant and bar staff received substantial praise for their cheerfulness and high level of service. Guests frequently described the staff in these areas as attentive, friendly and engaging, making dining experiences more pleasant. The breakfast service staff also left a positive impression on many, though a few noted that they could be more approachable and helpful.
Overall, while there are areas for improvement, particularly in consistency and at the reception, the staff at Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp is generally commended for being friendly, helpful and attentive, enhancing the overall guest experience.
Wi-Fi
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp offers free internet, which many guests found to be reliable and good. The WiFi is noted for being fast and stable, contributing positively to guest experiences. However, some areas for improvement were highlighted. There were occasional reports of poor and shaky WiFi and some guests mentioned a lack of information in the rooms regarding WiFi access. Another common concern was the insufficient number of power outlets, particularly in the bathroom, which led some guests to seek assistance from the reception. Lastly, the inability to connect phones to the TV was noted by a few visitors. Overall, while the free and generally reliable WiFi is a strong feature, addressing the minor connectivity and power outlet issues could significantly enhance the guest experience.
Parking
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp offers mixed experiences when it comes to parking. On the positive side, there is a substantial parking lot adjacent to the hotel, which many guests find convenient and easily accessible. The cost for parking is reasonable at 4 euros per session and sometimes there are free parking options available directly in front of the hotel. For those who managed to park in the designated areas, the service is described as easy and hassle-free.
However, parking availability can be an issue. Many guests noted the limited number of parking spaces, which can lead to difficulty in finding a spot, particularly for free parking. The paid parking lot next to the hotel can alleviate some of these concerns, but the need to pay every time the car is moved can add up and was seen as expensive by some. Additionally, a lack of clear signage and poorly indicated parking zones add to the inconvenience.
Overall, while the parking facilities at Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp are ample but limited, they are generally clean and offer good value for money. However, planning ahead and potential backup options for parking are advisable.
Family
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp is a family-friendly destination offering an enjoyable stay for guests with children. The staff is consistently described as friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall positive experience. The hotel's rooms are spacious and suitable for families with specific preferences like adjacent rooms often being met.
A standout feature for families is the hotel's prime location next to a zoo, making it an ideal choice for guests aiming to explore local attractions easily. The convenience of renting or bringing bicycles also allows for a seamless exploration of the city. Additionally, the hotel accommodates the whole family, including pets without extra charges.
Dining at the hotel is particularly child-friendly, offering a children's menu and entertaining activities like coloring with pencils provided as placemats. Furthermore, the attentive staff makes efforts to ensure all children, including those with special needs, feel welcome and comfortable.
Overall, Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp comes highly recommended for families, promising a pleasant and engaging stay for visitors of all ages.
4 Star
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp has received mixed feedback regarding its four-star rating. While some guests found the hotel to be in line with their expectations for a 4-star establishment, others felt the experience was underwhelming and not up to the standards typically associated with the Van der Valk brand. Criticisms frequently mentioned include the perceived disparity between the price and quality of services with particular disappointment directed towards the food, which was described as mediocre.
However, there were positive remarks about the overall hygiene services and customer friendliness, indicating that some aspects of the hotel's offerings do meet the expectations of a four-star establishment. Despite this, the inconsistency in service quality left several guests feeling that their stay did not represent good value for money.
Business
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp is recognized as an excellent choice for both business and casual stays. It offers many features that cater to business travelers, making it a fitting venue for business events, conferences and meetings. The hotel's business-oriented approach and the availability of spaces for gatherings enhance its appeal for business needs. Despite a few mixed opinions, the hotel overall stands out as a favorable place for business-related stays and events.
Accessible
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp receives positive remarks for its accessibility. The hotel is conveniently located, making it easily accessible by car with ample parking spaces available right next to the building. It's also well connected by public transport, enhancing its accessibility further. Visitors appreciate the friendly service provided by the reception staff. The hotel features wheelchair accessibility and accessible bathrooms, though some noted that the information about the accessible bathroom was not properly communicated. There are some criticisms, such as the accessibility issues to the wellness center and the size of the disabled rooms. Despite these concerns, the majority of the reviews reflect a generally accessible and visitor-friendly establishment.
Dog Friendly
Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp is a welcoming destination for dog owners seeking a relaxing stay. Several guests praised the hotel's dog-friendly policies, noting that dogs are welcome without incurring extra charges. The staff were highlighted for their friendliness and accommodating nature toward both human and canine visitors. The hotel's convenient location next to a large, easily accessible park received positive mentions as an excellent feature for those traveling with dogs. The overall cleanliness, modern amenities and the general atmosphere of relaxation further contribute to the positive experience. One minor drawback noted was that windows in the rooms could not be opened, but this did not seem to overshadow the enjoyment of most guests.
No, Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp.
Yes, Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp.
No, Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam - Blijdorp doesn't have a gym.