Hotel Zwartewater

The hotel is notably distinguished by its picturesque waterfront location, offering guests serene views and a tranquil atmosphere, particularly from its spacious rooms and inviting terraces. It serves as an excellent base for cyclists and sightseers looking to explore the surrounding area, including nearby Giethoorn, with convenient bike storage and rental services available. The presence of two distinct restaurants, one featuring popular live cooking, adds significantly to the guest experience. While many guests praise the comfortable accommodations and the overall value, some have reported inconsistencies in service and room condition, particularly concerning noise from events or renovations. To ensure a pleasant stay, it is advisable to confirm the availability of specific amenities like the swimming pool and to consider dining at the à la carte restaurant for a more consistent experience.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed to enhance guest convenience and leisure. Ample free parking is consistently highlighted as a significant advantage, making arrivals hassle-free. Guests frequently enjoy the expansive terraces that provide direct views of the water, perfect for relaxation. For active travelers, the secure bicycle storage with charging points and bike rental services are highly appreciated. The hotel also features a bowling alley, though its operational status can be inconsistent. While a swimming pool is available and enjoyed by many, some guests have encountered it being closed or under renovation, which caused disappointment. Most rooms are equipped with a lift for easy access, and Wi-Fi is generally reliable. However, some guests noted the absence of an electric kettle or coffee maker in certain room categories.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is generally positive, with many praising the spacious rooms and their overall tidiness. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, contributing to a restful night's sleep for most. Many rooms boast a balcony or terrace offering pleasant views, though some noted a lack of lighting on these outdoor spaces. The bathrooms are often described as practical and spacious, featuring walk-in showers. However, some guests reported issues such as dated decor in certain rooms, occasional unpleasant smells in bathrooms, and a lack of air conditioning, leading to uncomfortably warm conditions. Noise from neighboring rooms, external events, or ongoing renovation work has also been a concern for some, impacting the quiet atmosphere. Additionally, the provision of toiletries has been inconsistent, with some finding them limited or in inconvenient dispensers.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive mixed, yet generally positive, feedback. The breakfast buffet is widely praised for its extensive variety and quality, with many guests particularly enjoying the live cooking station where fresh eggs and omelets are prepared to order. However, a few guests mentioned that the breakfast selection could be improved or that certain items like bacon were occasionally missing. The hotel features two restaurants, with "Frank's" à la carte option frequently receiving high commendation for its excellent food quality. The buffet restaurant, while offering a wide selection and live cooking, has drawn some criticism for its limited vegetarian options and occasional reports of blandness. The bar is a popular spot, though some guests were disappointed by its early closing times.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as one of its strongest assets, situated directly on the waterfront and offering picturesque views. It provides a quiet setting that is ideal for relaxation, yet remains conveniently accessible. Guests appreciate its proximity to the charming local town, which is just a short walk away, offering additional dining and shopping opportunities. The hotel is also well-regarded as an excellent starting point for cycling tours and is conveniently located for those wishing to visit Giethoorn. Ample and free parking facilities are a significant benefit for guests arriving by car, ensuring ease of access. While the waterfront views are generally admired, a few guests noted an unpleasant smell from the water in certain riverside rooms.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receives positive remarks for their friendliness and helpfulness, particularly during check-in and in the main restaurant areas. Many guests commend the attentive service provided by the team, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. However, there are notable instances of mixed feedback, with some guests reporting experiences of unfriendly or unresponsive staff, particularly at the reception and in certain dining areas. Issues such as being ignored, abrupt communication, or a perceived lack of willingness to assist with requests like extra blankets have been mentioned. While many appreciate the overall service, these inconsistencies suggest that guest experience can vary depending on the specific staff encountered.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, allowing dogs in both rooms and the restaurant, which is a significant advantage for guests traveling with their companions. However, some guests noted challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas for pets nearby. Guests should be aware that the hotel has undergone renovation work, which, while aiming to improve facilities, has occasionally resulted in noise disturbances during daytime hours. The hotel is a popular choice for group bookings, including bridge weekends, indicating its suitability for organized events. While the hotel offers a bowling alley as an amenity, its availability can be inconsistent, so it is advisable to confirm its operational status if this is a key interest.