The Best of Both Worlds: 5 Romantic Dutch Stays Where Your Dog Can Join You for Dinner
One of the biggest downsides to a dog-friendly stay is often the "restaurant rule"—you find a great hotel, but the moment you head down for dinner, the dog has to stay in the room. This February, in celebration of "Valentails," we’ve found the Dutch spots that don't make you choose between a romantic night out and your dog’s company.
These five locations actually allow your dog to settle at the table with you, making for a much more relaxed and romantic evening, plus they have some great places to explore on their door step.
Badhotel Rockanje, South Holland
This hotel has a lodge-like atmosphere that feels especially right in the winter but works as a cozy escape any time of year. Their brasserie, Lodgers, is centered around a massive open fireplace where it’s common to see dogs napping on the rugs while their owners eat. It’s a great spot for a low-key, romantic dinner where the "dogs welcome" policy feels completely natural.
- A nearby escape: Just outside the hotel, you’ll find the entrance to the Rockanje dunes. If you walk towards the sea, the beach is fully off-leash during the winter months. It’s a rugged, quiet stretch of coast that’s perfect for a long walk before heading back to the fire for dinner.
Kimpton De Witt, Amsterdam
Most high-end hotels in the city center are pretty strict about their dining rooms, but the Kimpton is an exception. You can bring your dog into their restaurant, Celia, as well as the bar. They don't have size or breed restrictions, making it one of the most inclusive luxury spots in the city for a romantic weekend away.
- A nearby escape: Take a morning stroll through the nearby Westerpark. It’s a great mix of industrial architecture and green space. There’s a large off-leash area near the back of the park where you can let them run before heading into the Jordaan district for a coffee.
Bilderberg 't Speulderbos, Garderen
Located in the heart of the Veluwe, this hotel is built for people who love the outdoors. They have dedicated areas in both their grand café and restaurant specifically for guests dining with dogs. It’s a very cozy, intimate setting that’s perfect for a post-forest-hike dinner.
- A nearby escape: The Speulderbos forest is right on your doorstep. It’s famous for its "dancing trees"—old, twisted oaks that look incredible in the mist. Follow the trails towards the "Solse Gat" for one of the most atmospheric walks in the country.
Van der Valk de Cantharel, Apeldoorn
This property feels more like a private country estate than a standard hotel. They are very focused on the "outdoor life" experience, and that extends to their dining. You can eat with your dog in several relaxed bistro and bar areas that still offer the full, high-quality menu.
- A nearby escape: A few minutes away is Hondenbos Het Leesten. It features a massive fenced-in dog forest and a dedicated 5km "Wet Nose Route" (Natteneuzenroute). It’s a beautiful trail through heathland and woods where dogs can roam safely off-leash.
The Hoxton Lloyd, Amsterdam East
The Lloyd is a historic building with massive, open social spaces that feel like a large communal living room. Dogs are a permanent fixture in the lobby and bar areas here, and the atmosphere is very laid back. It’s a great choice if you want a romantic dinner that feels a bit more modern and upbeat without any of the usual "hotel rules" stress.
- A nearby escape: Flevopark is just a short walk away. It’s a hidden gem in Amsterdam East with a long, scenic off-leash path along the water. It’s much quieter than the central parks, giving you a bit more privacy for a long walk.
10 things to do with your dog in February
If you aren't heading away this February, we’ve put together a list of things to do at home or locally to help celebrate "Valentails" and get you through this cold month.
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The winter beach run: Make the most of the winter rules at the coast—most Dutch beaches, like those in Noordwijk or Rockanje, allow dogs off-leash all day until the spring restrictions kick in.
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Bake some "Love Hearts": Whip up a batch of simple, beetroot-dyed heart biscuits at home for a healthy Valentine’s snack. (They're the perfect treat to bring along to the hotels we mentioned!)
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A heritage hike: Explore the grounds of a local castle or historic estate like Kasteel de Haar; the winter light is usually perfect for photos this time of year.
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The "Lobby Settle": Head to a dog-friendly spot like The Hoxton or the Kimpton for a coffee while your dog practices relaxing in a busy environment.
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A "Barkuterie" board: Build a snack board with local Dutch cheeses and dried treats for a cozy movie night at home.
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"Love Letter" hide and seek: Hide a favorite toy or a treat inside a crinkled piece of paper and let them "unwrap" their gift.
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National Love Your Pet Day: On February 20th, stop by an independent Dutch boutique like Het Vachtje in the west or Pet Emporium in the east of Amsterdam to pick out a new accessory.
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The heated terrace lunch: Use the WagFriendly app to scout out a local spot with outdoor heaters so you can enjoy a meal together in the fresh air.
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The fireside settle: Find a local spot with a real wood fire—like the brasserie at Badhotel Rockanje—for a post-walk warm-up.
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The golden hour stroll: Catch a winter sunset at a landmark like Kinderdijk; the lower sun in February makes for some of the best portraits.
FAQs: Dining and Staying with Dogs in the Netherlands
Which luxury hotels in the Netherlands allow dogs in the restaurant?
While most luxury hotels allow dogs in the room, few allow them in fine-dining areas. Kimpton De Witt (Amsterdam), Badhotel Rockanje (South Holland), and Bilderberg 't Speulderbos (Garderen) are top-tier choices that welcome dogs at the dinner table. Always mention your dog when booking to ensure you are seated in the dog-friendly section of the brasserie.
Do Dutch hotels charge a fee for dogs?
Most Dutch hotels charge a pet fee ranging from €15 to €35 per night to cover deep cleaning. However, boutique brands like The Hoxton and Kimpton De Witt often have "Pets Stay Free" policies or inclusive packages.
Can I leave my dog alone in the hotel room while I eat?
Most hotels technically allow this if your dog is quiet. However, for a stress-free stay, it’s better to choose a hotel that allows dogs in the restaurant. If you must leave them, ensure they have a familiar blanket and that you’ve alerted reception.
What are the best off-leash areas near Dutch hotels in February?
February is the "Golden Window" for coastal walks. Destinations like Noordwijk aan Zee and Rockanje lift their summer restrictions, allowing dogs off-leash across the entire beach. Inland, the Veluwe offers dedicated dog forests like Het Leesten with fenced-in trails.
A great dinner date is only one part of a perfect Valentails. For more professional tips and ideas on how to make this month special for your dog, be sure to check out the latest post from [Blogger Name]. They’re diving deep into [Topic], and it’s a must-read for any dog owner this season.
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