La Paulowna
Curated by Katy
Located on an adorable plaza in the heart of The Hague, La Paulowna Boutique Hotel is an elegant yet down-to-earth property. Behind a stately brick facade with high windows and a terracotta tiled roof, travelers find a welcome property in this vibrant and artistic historic district.
At a glance
Location: The Hague, Netherlands
Price: from €149
Rooms: 9
Suitable for: Families, including those with children under 5
Nearest Airport(s): Schipol (AMS): 30min by train + 10-15min to the train station; Rotterdam (RTM): 25min by car
Arrive by: Car, tram, cab
Open: Year Round
Check in: 3pm Check out: 12pm
The Hotel
The hotel was dreamed up by owners Anuschka and Wim. They lived on the same street opposite the empty 1910 building that was to become La Paulowna. With her experience in fashion and his carpentry and furniture-building skills, they imagined a boutique hotel as lovely and hospitable as the city. The result is carefully restored and furnished boutique hotel with service and warmth that keeps corporate and leisure guests returning again and again.
Rooms
Each one of the nine charming guest suites reflects the owners' eye for detail. Rooms feature natural materials and high windows overlooking the plaza below, for a serenely elegant yet homey experience. Refurbished family heirlooms, like Delft Blauw pieces that belonged to the owner’s father, appear alongside repurposed materials, creating unique combinations and one-of-a-kind rooms. Handmade details from local lighting designer JSPR and furniture by Couqou, Wim (the owner), and some great secondhand finds add to the custom character of the spaces.
Food and drink
The ground floor restaurant, Bayonne, focuses on Basque specialties made from mostly organic ingredients. The restaurant maintains a close relationship with the hotel but sits under different ownership. You'll see a lot of locals here, which is what we like. Rotating menus are served up in a cozy candle-filled environment of recycled wood flooring and refurbished vintage furniture. We love the large garden terrace, perfect for people-watching in any weather. They serve all day, from breakfast to dinner.
If not Bayonne, there are plenty of options within 10-15 minutes walking or biking. This area is exceptional for its great cups of coffee, so you’re in the right spot if you need that cuppa something first thing.
The area
The Hague has flown under the radar for way too long. And this makes it even better for today's traveler. With minimal tourists but maximum elegance and the picturesque characteristics of Holland, the city is a happy surprise for many visitors.
Close to many of the city's most important landmarks and monuments like the Peace Palace and the Royal Palace, La Paulowna is located in Zeeheldenkwartier, a neighborhood that's many a local's favorite. It's at the heart of historic streets lined with small cafés, restaurants, and boutiques. You can wander the streets on foot, hop on one of the hotel's bikes, or jump on a tram to the beach for white dune views as far as the eye can see. Can't imagine a more perfectly placed hotel for a visit to the city.
One thing we love about the Hague is its chill vibe. Even though you’re above a vibrant plaza at La Paulowna, you still find a lot of quiet after 10pm. The Hague isn’t known for its big party scene…its got more of a family and entrepreneurial revelry going on. For the best late nights, a lot of people head to nearby university towns like Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Leiden.
Your hosts
Hosts Anuschka and Wim come from a family of hoteliers and restauranteurs– hospitality runs in the family…you might even run into one of their young daughters hanging out after school. Add their combined expertise in design and their shared love of natural and recycled materials to this pedigree, resulting in the carefully renovated building that houses La Paulowna. As Wim made plans and sketches, Anuschka collected antiques from local markets. Their personal touches make a stay at this small hotel so memorable.
Why we love it
La Paulowna exudes charm, comfort, and sweetness. From location to the historic exterior. From the carefully curated interiors to the owners present for every step of your hospitality journey. The Hague will feel like home as soon as you pass the threshold.
Good to know
A few years back, the hotel extended to a lovely building across the plaza where three rooms are located. These rooms are slightly smaller but also offer a lot of privacy and pretty views of the hotel itself.
If you do have to drive to the property, their are two garages located close walking distance.
Keep in mind this is a historic Dutch property which means: steep stairs. There is no lift/elevator, and you might have to manage a few flights of stairs on the way up. Mind the house cat when you do :)
Room TIPS
For families: choose the Emerald room
For views and flow: choose the Ochre room
For privacy: choose the Pearl room
For something quaint, adorable, and private: choose the Mustard room
Good Trips perks
Flexible Check-in & Check-out upon availability
Free room upgrade when available
10% discount
Promo code: GOODTRIPS
Sustainability in practice
Wim and Anushka have made great efforts to restore the historic property responsibly. They have been recognized for their commitment to sustainable operation within the hospitality industry by Green Key. You'll find details like water-saving fixtures, atmospheric LED lighting, and eco-friendly toiletries (and toilet paper, too).
Good for the Economy
Greater economic opportunities generated for locals
Supporting community initiatives
Championing local businesses
Good for the Culture
Provide meaningful and respectful connections between locals and travelers
Foster tolerance, inclusivity, and intercultural understanding in within the workplace and in the community
Good for the Environment
Low-toxin cleaning supplies
Low-to-no plastic use
Conscious waste management
Low water consumption
Good Design
Construction materials are local and low impact
Locally designed and made, and secondhand furniture
Designed with the local culture in mind
Historic structures were preserved and celebrated
Book with promo code GOODTRIPS for special incentives.
Katy Hoogerwerf
Katy is a New Orleans native who grew up shaped by the art, design, music, and famously good food her hometown is known for. Her passion and expertise lie in finding design-led conscious businesses and sharing them with you.
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