Located on a narrow street in the medieval heart of Utrecht, adjacent to a shopping center, close to Centraal Station and Jaarbeurs Congress Center, this 14th-century building was once headquarters of the German Knight's Order. It was later a monastery, but was commandeered by Napoleon in 1808 and converted into a military hospital, which it remained until 1986. The original building was impeccably restored and two annexes were added before it opened to the public in 1999.
If guests make it through the maze of cobblestone streets to the door, valets will take over and tuck cars into a private lot. The original dining room is now the gracious French restaurant,
Karel V, with tall ceilings, lovely wood floors, a large fireplace and a mosaic. The second restaurant (the original kitchen with the original brick floors) is a charming brasserie. The cellar bars are a series of cozy rooms with arched ceilings and small windows.
Expanded conference space draws corporate retreats in 12 function rooms, many of which are located in restored, historic environs. The contemporary auditorium is state-of-the-art, accommodating up to 60 people, and business services are available. A compact fitness room and solarium are also on-site. Outdoor, but expensive, parking is provided for 80 cars.
Guest rooms come in four categories: standard, deluxe, superior and suites. All are modern and beautifully appointed, offering simple elegance. Standards have warm cherry built-ins holding bookcases, drawers and TVs at the foot of the beds. They also feature large worktables and desks, heavy drapes hanging from tall windows, thermostats, complimentary high-speed Internet access, minibars and coffeemakers with a wide selection of teas. Extra linens, pillows, small safes and trouser presses are stored in the large closets. Huge baths have dual basins, stall showers, towel heaters, magnifying mirrors, good hair dryers, robes, slippers and toiletries. Deluxe rooms are impressive with high ceilings, sitting areas, striped walls, polished wood floors and finer furnishings such as half-tester beds and custom red-upholstered swan chairs. Superiors on the top floor are actually smaller, but are charming with their sloped ceilings and dormered windows. Most rooms also have lovely garden views. Overnight shoeshines and 24-hour room service are available.
The terrific staff offers impeccable service, and maintenance and housekeeping are top of the line. The Karel V is an irresistible in-town address and rules the roost in Utrecht.
