Phoenix, Arizona (December 1, 2023) – WorldHotelsTM  announced today the addition of Grand Hotel Karel V to the WorldHotels Luxury collection as the brand continues its expansion throughout the Netherlands. Located in the historical cultural centre of Utrecht, Grand Hotel Karel V offers the coveted luxury of peace and rest amidst stunning gardens in this medieval town.

“As we continue to grow our Luxury collection within WorldHotels, it is exciting for such an iconic property to join our portfolio,” said Ron Pohl, President of WorldHotels. “The addition of Grand Hotel Karel V is a testament to what the WorldHotels team is trying to accomplish — bringing one-of-a-kind, authentic and luxury properties to travelers around the world.”

Less than 10 minutes from the central station, this hotel offers a historically stunning venue for both business & leisure travelers alike.  The hotel features 121 rooms and suites (many recently refurbished) and 13 monumental meeting rooms, each with their own architectural beauty. Additional amenities include a Michelin-starred restaurant, a sophisticated brasserie, an invigorating spa and 10,000 square metres of beautiful gardens.

The philosophy of Grand Hotel Karel V reflects on the hotel’s impressive past where it began as a 14th century Teutonic Monastery, serving accommodations to traveling knights and priests, before eventually spending time as a military hospital. Many historical celebrities have stayed for extended periods throughout its accomplished history, including Louis Napoleon, the brother of Napoleon Bonaparte. Today, this history is infused into the property which now serves as a five-star luxury hotel.

“Having Grand Hotel Karel V back in our WorldHotels family makes me very proud,” said Wytze Van den Berg, Vice President Operations EMEA for BWH Hotels. “We are thrilled to have this famous luxury hotel in our brand so that our guests can enjoy a luxurious stay when visiting Utrecht or the center of The Netherlands. I have no doubt that many of our 54 million loyalty members, as well as our international customers, will find their way to this iconic hotel and will love the hospitality provided by the amazing team of Leo.”

Among the unique décor and architectural elements throughout the property, a particular highlight includes the ‘Unico Van Wassenaar Room’ which was built with a 14th century restored arch construction and now serves as a meeting room. Many of the event spaces offer exceptional settings for business events, as well as an intimate congress, dinner, or wedding.

Leo Hollman, General Manager of Grand Hotel Karel V, explains his reasons for partnering with WorldHotels, saying, “We joined WorldHotels as it is increasingly difficult to be alone in the hotel sales, marketing and revenue world. It is great to have found a partner for international business which helps our bookability, findability and availability, and also offers a loyalty program that we could not offer as a standalone hotel.”

The vision of Grand Hotel Karel V is to remain focused on the top luxury segment and to operate on a top culinary level.  Above and beyond the stunning architecture, renovated rooms and beautiful surroundings, the hotel believes luxury hospitality is about creating memories and the warmth of its staff.

WorldHotels offers travelers the opportunity for exciting discoveries in the most unexpected places to rediscover any destination they seek. Guests staying at Grand Hotel Karel V can enjoy the benefits of a leading loyalty program, WorldHotels RewardsSM, where members receive exclusive access and privileges at any of our independent hotels worldwide. Learn more about WorldHotels Rewards.