About us

The history of Van der Valk

Anno 1935

In the year 1935, Martinus and Riet van der Valk founded their little tourist restaurant "De Gouden Leeuw" in Voorschoten (Netherlands). At first, they only sold lemonade and coffee, but soon Riet began to prepare pancakes and other dainties for their hungry guests. The news of good food and drink for good value spread quickly, and in no time the place was too small so that a bigger coffee shop had to be added.

In the meantime a butcher's shop had also been established, since the couple strove to produce and market on their own goods that were needed for their restaurants (and later on their hotels). Today, also furnishing houses, furniture factories, kitchen suppliers and travel companies belong to the group. In 1939, the street where the restaurant was situated, was broadened, so that the tourist coffee shop was pulled down and a new building with 10 hotel rooms was constructed.

When Martinus van der Valk passed away in 1969, there already were 16 hotels and restaurants! The foundation stone of a family company was laid, with each son and each daughter of the large family owning a hotel or a restaurant. Over the years, also grandchildren and great-grandchildren went into the family business, which today consists of more than 80 hotels and restaurants.

From the very beginning, each business has been run by a family member, and so it is no wonder that the private and familiar atmosphere has remained until today, despite the enormous growth of the Van der Valk hotel chain. As soon as you see our heraldic animal, the toucan, in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Spain, on the Netherlands Antilles or in the USA/Florida, you know that you have found the ideal spot for relaxation, recovery, congresses and many more activities. And traditionally, it is all excellent value for your money.

In Germany, the first hotel was established in Moers, in 1986. Today, the Van der Valk group is represented in Germany with 11 hotels, two holiday resorts, two indoor ski arenas and a water-plant. All hotels are situated conveniently, close to bigger cities and mostly offer a free of charge car park.

We are looking forward to welcoming you.

Yours,

Van der Valk Family