History

The history of Landgoed de Holtweijde

History

The founders of Landgoed De Holtweijde saw the potential in the earlier tearoom and expanded it into the Holtweijde Inn, which opened during the Christmas of 1973. Thanks to their dedication, craftsmanship and creativity, Holtweijde quickly gained acclaim. The elegance, ambiance and style of the inn began attracting an increasingly growing number of regular guests. The name Holtweijde became synonymous with a warm atmosphere, personalised service and quality, elements that remain an important part of Hotel Landgoed De Holtweijde’s philosophy today.

From inn to hotel

The Saxon House, which is found next to the entrance, was the first hotel style accommodation to be introduced, although it now serves an admittedly less romantic function as office. While various additions and expansions have been made over the years, the Saxon architectural style has been carefully maintained.
A rigorous expansion took place in the late 1980s with the addition of a wing with 18 luxury suites, conference facilities, a bridal suite and sauna. The architects managed to successfully integrate the new additions with the existing complex and in 1990 the Holtweijde Inn was transformed into Hotellerie De Holtweijde.

However, Holtweijde did not stop expanding its boundaries. In 1992, the hotel’s bungalows made way for country houses, built in keeping with the Saxon style. Three putting and pitching greens were added to cater to the increasing number of golf lovers. The hotel grew further in 1994-1995, when the Health & Wellness Centre, with its beauty and spa treatments, had outgrown its facilities. The existing swimming pool was replaced with a larger and more stylish underground swimming facility. Holtweijde was on its way to the becoming a premier hotel in the Netherlands and world-wide.

Marcel en Marlies Vlek – Wijnbergen

A change of management took place in 2007 when ownership fell to Marcel en Marlies Vlek – Wijnbergen, both of whom had experience in the hotel industry, Marlies in privately-owned establishments and Marcel in hotel chains.  Never having previously worked together, the idea to combine their knowledge and passion had kept presenting itself over the years. In addition, they felt the need to create a better balance between their working lives and their family of four children. They quickly decided to seize the opportunity that Holtweijde presented.

Keep pace with change, while not compromising on quality

This was the driving idea behind the changes that were set to take place. The restaurant underwent a metamorphosis, but retained its character. The result was the creation of an atmospheric space breathing style and tradition, but with a contemporary feel.

The hotel underwent changes as an organisation as well. The respective teams were gradually given more responsibility. Just as elsewhere, there was no compromise on quality and the majority of the staff that worked under the previous management are still with us today. The passion they bring to their work is a reflection of the quality that Holtweijde represents.

The personal touch of a privately owned five star hotel

Holtweijde is a privately owned hotel. The fact it is not associated with any hotel chain not only reflects in its independent business character, but in its warm, unique personal touch. Owners Marcel and Marlies Vlek are closely involved with all aspects of the hotel, themselves contributing everyday, they are a visible presence. They are on hand daily to welcome guests and shake their hands. They know their guests and their guests know them. That is the sort of personal touch that guests appreciate and that gives Landgoed De Holtweijde its uniquely personal charm.