Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol

This hotel is widely recognized for its convenient proximity to the airport and its efficient shuttle service, making it an ideal choice for airport travelers and those seeking a relaxed start or end to their journey. Guests frequently highlight the spacious and modern rooms, along with the exceptional breakfast buffet, as standout features. The hotel's resort-like scale and comprehensive facilities also appeal to families and business travelers looking for comfort and convenience. To optimize your stay, it is advisable to inquire about rooms in the newer sections or the tower for a more contemporary experience, and be mindful of the shuttle bus schedule, especially during peak times, as it can get crowded.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a wide array of modern and comfortable facilities designed to enhance the guest experience. Many guests appreciate the well-equipped fitness center and a mid-sized indoor swimming pool with a sauna and steam room, providing excellent options for relaxation and exercise. There are also convenient self-service snack bars and a small grocery nook in the lobby, offering drinks and necessities. While some guests noted the absence of a refrigerator in all rooms, the presence of a coffee maker and balconies in many rooms adds to the comfort. An ironing and laundry room is available, though some prefer in-room ironing facilities.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is generally positive, with many praising the spaciousness and modern design of the accommodations. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, often featuring separate duvets and good soundproofing from outside noise, including aircraft. Many rooms boast large bathrooms with both a walk-in shower and a bathtub, sometimes a jacuzzi tub, providing a luxurious feel. However, some guests reported issues in older sections, including musty smells, noise from adjacent rooms, and occasional maintenance issues like loose toilet seats or stained linens, indicating variability in room quality.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast buffet receives overwhelming praise for its extensive variety and high quality, with guests consistently describing it as exceptional and one of the best they have experienced. Options range from traditional fare to decadent desserts, with fresh fruit and an omelet chef often highlighted. The main restaurant is also well-regarded, offering a diverse menu with dishes like perfectly grilled ribeye and flavorful Indian cuisine, though some found the service inconsistent or the food quality to be average for the price. The bar is noted for its pleasant atmosphere and generous cocktail servings, though service can sometimes be slow.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's strategic location near the airport is a significant advantage, particularly for travelers with early flights or layovers. A complimentary shuttle bus service to and from the airport is highly valued, providing easy access to public transport links for reaching Amsterdam city center. While the hotel is somewhat isolated, it offers ample parking, with some guests appreciating the free options, though others found the parking expensive or inconveniently located far from the entrance. Some guests expressed concerns about the shuttle bus capacity during busy periods, leading to overcrowding.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives high commendation for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight the quick and efficient check-in process and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as early check-ins or room changes. The shuttle bus drivers are often praised for their helpfulness with luggage. However, there are instances of mixed feedback, with some guests reporting less positive interactions, including perceived unhelpfulness or rudeness from certain staff members, particularly at the reception or in the bar area, and occasional communication issues regarding bookings or services.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel is very large, and navigating to rooms can sometimes involve long walks from the reception area. While the hotel aims for a consistent experience, some guests noted a significant difference in quality between the newer tower rooms and older sections, particularly concerning room amenities like the absence of a mini-fridge or an in-room iron. The hotel offers a park, sleep, and fly arrangement which is highly recommended for its convenience, allowing guests to park their car for extended periods. Some guests reported a destination fee or additional charges for services like luggage storage or cribs, which were not always clearly communicated.