An afternoon at a nice Hotel bar

We stopped just to charge the car but we found such a Belgian beauty of a Hotel with a nice bar and some - you know - Belgian beers

Hey Hive Family
let us travel the world again
and collect great pictures

The Van de Valk in Verviers

Oh man, the Van der Valk Hotel and Bar in Verviers is like a hidden gem with a backstory that's as rich as a slice of Belgian chocolate cake! So, back in 1939, this power couple, Martien and Rie van der Valk, kicked things off with a restaurant in Voorschoten, Netherlands. They poured their hearts into it, making it a hit with their cozy, family vibe. Fast forward through time, and their squad of 11 kids helped them expand into what's now the biggest hotel chain in the Netherlands. Talk about family goals, right?

Then there's the Hotel Verviers itself, nestled in what used to be a 19th-century train station. This place doesn't just rest on its historical laurels; it's all about green living and eco-friendly practices. Whether you're in it for a swim in their outdoor pool, a gourmet meal at the restaurant, or just chilling on their terrace, they've got you covered.

^{Picture by actiehotels.nl}

Now, let's dive a bit into the Van der Valk saga. Martinus Van der Valk, the brains behind the brand, was one ambitious dude. He turned a café into a hotspot by serving up home-cooked meals that were a cut above the rest. His and Riet's dream grew into a massive family business that spread its wings far beyond Dutch borders, with hotels popping up in Germany, Belgium, France, Spain, and even the Netherlands Antilles.

But here's the kicker: ever wondered why there's a toucan in their logo instead of, say, a falcon? Turns out, after WWII, falcons were a no-go because of their association with not-so-great memories. So, they went with a toucan – a cheerful, social bird that perfectly captures the Van der Valk vibe.

^{Picture by actiehotels.nl}

So, if you're ever in Verviers and looking for a place that's got history, heart, and a commitment to the planet, you know where to check in. Plus, who doesn't love the idea of staying in a place that feels like a second home, with a side of Belgian charm?