Hotel

Although the name suggests otherwise, a stay at the Gevangenis Hotel Hoorn (Prison Hotel) is definitely no punishment. Nevertheless, it is a very unusual experience to stay in a hotel room where prisoners were locked up not too long ago. Eleven of the former prison cells have remained in their original state, these are located in De Sluis. Here, guests can experience what it was like to stay in these austere cells. Naturally, all of these rooms have been fitted with splendid beds, where you can sleep between organic, fair trade sheets, as well as enjoy good facilities such as a shower, washbasin and toilet. Look through the small prison windows and you'll be met with a view of either the IJsselmeer or the large yard, the prison's former exercise grounds.

The 2nd floor of the hotel has 14 hotel rooms, some of which offer a view of the Markermeer lake. Although sober and rigid, these rooms are very comfortably furnished, and come with a modern ensuite bathroom with a shower and toilet. There is a lift, and the hotel also offers two adjoining family rooms.

The former prison on Oostereiland has been stunningly renovated and has now become the Gevangenis Hotel. The facade has more or less remained as it was. The interior has been designed in an industrial manner, entirely in keeping with the building's austere atmosphere encompassing steel, stone, wood and glass. The hotel's brasserie, where guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner, is also a convivial meeting place. The restaurant makes use of plenty of organic and regional produce. The clean interior is tastefully decorated with design furniture and colourful artworks, and offers a view of Hoorn's harbour and the prison yard. Guests can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat on the long wooden tables placed in the former exercise yard. Cultural activities regularly take place here during the summer months.