SAPIENS TRAVEL SLEEPS: RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX WEESHUIS GOUDA

Continuing our series of reviews of the most charming hotels in our portfolio, I’m delighted to share my impressions of the utterly enchanting Weeshuis Gouda, our favorite option for exploring the Rotterdam region — including the brand-new Fenix Museum of Migration and the historic windmills of Kinderdijk.

In a country known for its bustling urban centers, some cities seem to whisper their stories rather than shout them. Goudais one of those quiet gems. World-renowned for its namesake cheese and the stained-glass windows of St. Janskerk — one of the largest churches in the Netherlands — Gouda was also the birthplace of key Renaissance figures, such as Erasmus of Rotterdam. The city retains a cinematic charm: its canals reflect not only unmistakable Dutch architecture but also centuries of tradition, art, and delightful curiosities that remain vibrantly alive to this day.

THE ARRIVAL AND CHECK-IN…

From the very first step inside, Weeshuis Gouda feels like a well-kept secret. Housed in a former orphanage dating back to the 16th century, the property has been lovingly restored to preserve its historical soul while embracing contemporary comfort. The check-in is warm and personal, more like being welcomed into a stylish private residence than a traditional hotel.

The entrance, through a quiet courtyard tucked behind Gouda’s cobbled streets, sets the tone: intimate, elegant, and full of surprises. From the scent of fresh flowers in the lobby to the gentle lighting and curated soundtrack, everything seems to say: “take your time, you’ve arrived somewhere special.”

the interior...

The flawless blend of contemporary furniture and antique pieces creates an atmosphere that feels both historic and refreshingly current. Each suite is unique, adorned with handpicked objects, luxurious fabrics, and a color palette that evokes the celebrated tones of the Flemish masters. A special highlight is an original 17th-century painting by Jan Verzijl, depicting the regents of Gouda, displayed in the De Regentenkamer salon, part of Restaurant Coco, where breakfast and afternoon tea are served.

Sleeping at Weeshuis is to experience the quiet comfort of a building that once housed many, now reimagined as a sanctuary of tranquility and design. The service is discreet, precise, and warmly intuitive, the kind that anticipates a guest’s wish before it’s spoken, with grace and generosity.

the gastronomy...

As with every Relais & Châteaux, it's impossible to speak of Weeshuis without dedicating a few lines to its impeccable gastronomy. The charming COCO bar, with its signature cocktails and a menu that pays tribute to local stories and characters, is one of the most sought-after summer lunch spots in town.

LIZZ, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, offers one of the region’s most refined tasting menus, featuring fresh ingredients sourced from small local producers. The intimate atmosphere invites romance and celebration, making every meal feel like a special occasion.

the rooms...

The suites at Weeshuis reveal the almost artisanal care with which each space was designed. Nothing feels generic. Every room has its own identity, with signature design pieces, a warm and welcoming color palette, and small details that tell stories, like the elegant reuse of antique materials or light fixtures that seem plucked from a Flemish novel. The bathrooms, spacious and contemporary, provide absolute comfort while harmonizing beautifully with the hotel’s centuries-old architecture. Staying at Weeshuis feels like inhabiting a well-kept secret, where the past rests gently beside you.

Weeshuis Gouda is not just a hotel, it’s an experience that weaves together historical heritage, contemporary elegance, and a touch of magic. A place for those who seek to discover the truest and most original hospitality in the Netherlands.

Check out our reviews of the brand-new Fenix Museum and the vibrant artsy scene of Rotterdam.