Gregory W.
Google
We booked a 4‑day stay at Van der Valk Luxembourg for a quiet New Year’s getaway, expecting the same reliable quality we’ve experienced at other Van der Valk hotels. Unfortunately, this visit was far below the standard we’re used to, with several issues from arrival to departure.
Booking Confusion – Especially for New Year’s Eve
Before booking, I confirmed via email that there was still availability for the New Year’s Eve buffet and party for two people. Based on that confirmation, we booked the room and even extended our stay.
Upon arrival, the staff was friendly, but suddenly we were told the event was “fully booked.” After showing the email confirmation, a phone call was made, and we were assured that everything was fine.
However, on 31/12, we were told again that we were not booked for the party and were sent downstairs to a standard buffet that ended at 22:00—no party, no celebration, nothing that matched what was promoted or what we confirmed by email.
Unfriendly Service at the Buffet
At the downstairs buffet, the first staff member was blunt and unhelpful. Ordering a bottle of wine became an unnecessary struggle, and we ended up paying €48 for a bottle worth €3.99 in the supermarket. Not exactly a festive start to New Year’s Eve.
We tried to make the best of it, but leaving at 22:00 to go back to the room instead of celebrating the new year was disappointing.
Room & Nighttime Noise
Back in the room, we found the TV barely functional with no smart TV options. We decided to sleep early, but loud voices in the hallway and fireworks outside made that impossible. Had we known the fireworks were happening, we would have at least gone to watch them.
Chaotic Breakfast
The next morning’s breakfast at 8:00 was pure chaos: too many guests, too few staff. Long lines for coffee (20+ minutes), no available tables for many guests, and an overwhelmed team that was clearly understaffed. We’ve never seen this at any other Van der Valk.
Wellness Experience Not Worth the Price
Later that day, we wanted to relax in the wellness area. Unlike other Van der Valk locations where wellness is included, this one charges €25 per person. So naturally, expectations were high.
Unfortunately, the spa was overcrowded and felt completely unmanaged:
• Kids playing in the pool
• Tables covered with empty cups and bottles
• A full sauna with guests talking loudly
• A hammam with people shouting
• Guests entering without paying simply by following others
For €50 in total, it was absolutely not worth it. The facility itself is beautiful, but with the current overcrowding and lack of supervision, it won’t stay that way for long.
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Conclusion
Yes, the hotel is visually appealing, quiet, and has a nice wellness in theory. But the lack of organization, miscommunication around New Year’s Eve, chaotic breakfast, and disappointing spa experience made this stay far from what we expect from Van der Valk.
We still made the best of our time together, but the experience did not match what was promised—or what we’ve come to appreciate from this hotel chain.