Grandeur by the Sea

If you’re walking along the boulevard in Scheveningen, you can hardly miss it: the Kurhaus. With its magnificent dome and prime location right by the sea, it is certainly one of the most famous buildings in Scheveningen.

I’d quite like to stay here myself sometime. Book an overnight stay here.

The Kurhaus is more than just a hotel. It is a piece of history, a meeting place, and a building where the atmosphere of days gone by can still be felt. And honestly, pretty much everything about the Kurhaus exudes grandeur.

From Spa Resort to Icon

The first Kurhaus opened in 1884. At the time, Scheveningen was developing rapidly as a seaside resort. People came to the coast to get some fresh air, relax, and, of course, to see and be seen.

The current building was constructed a few years later, after the original Kurhaus was destroyed by fire in 1886. The new Kurhaus opened its doors in 1887. The building was designed based on examples of grand European seaside resorts and acquired the distinctive appearance we know so well today.

The large dome on top of the building quickly became an important landmark. When you say Scheveningen, you’re really also saying Kurhaus.

The Boulevard as Its Front Garden

One of the best things about the Kurhaus is, of course, its location. Step outside and you’re practically on the boulevard. A few more steps and you have a view of the North Sea.

On a sunny day, the area is bustling. Walkers, cyclists, tourists, beachgoers, and locals move along the boulevard. Terraces are packed, while on the beach people are making the most of the sun, sea, and wind.

And then there’s the Kurhaus as the backdrop. It makes a stroll along the boulevard feel just a little more elegant.

Music and Famous Names

Over the years, the Kurhaus has also played an important role in music history. Numerous famous artists have performed in the renowned Kurzaal.

One of the most famous performances took place in 1964, when The Rolling Stones performed there. The concert was ended prematurely after the audience went completely wild. The performance went on to become a legendary moment in the history of both the band and the Kurhaus.

But the Kurzaal was not only a stage for rock ’n’ roll. Over the years, it has hosted concerts, galas, events and all kinds of other special gatherings.

A Building with Character

The Kurhaus has lived through many different periods. The building has been renovated, adapted and restored over the years, while retaining its monumental character.

As soon as you step inside, you immediately notice that this is no ordinary hotel. High ceilings, grand chandeliers and classic details give the interior a distinctive atmosphere.

It’s a place where you can easily imagine what Scheveningen must have looked like in the past: ladies in long dresses, gentlemen in smart suits, and guests coming to the seaside for relaxation and entertainment.

Fortunately, these days you don’t need a top hat or evening gown to enjoy the Kurhaus.

Scheveningen and the Kurhaus Belong Together

The Kurhaus has become so closely associated with Scheveningen that it is difficult to imagine the seaside resort without it.

The boulevard is constantly changing. New restaurants, beach pavilions and attractions continue to appear. The Ferris wheel turns above the pier, and there is always something happening on the beach.

But the Kurhaus remains in its familiar spot.

Perhaps that is exactly what makes it so charming. You can change all kinds of things in Scheveningen, but as long as you look out to sea from the boulevard with the Kurhaus behind you, it still feels unmistakably like Scheveningen.

Visiting the Kurhaus?

A visit to Scheveningen isn’t really complete without taking a stroll past the Kurhaus. Walk along the boulevard, admire the impressive façade, and then make your way down towards the beach.

On a beautiful day, you can easily turn it into a full day out: have a coffee on the boulevard, take a walk along the sea, enjoy lunch, perhaps visit the Pier, and later watch the sunset.

And if the weather isn’t cooperating? No problem. There’s always the sea to look at.

The Kurhaus has been an iconic landmark on the coast for more than 140 years. A building full of history, music and stories — and, above all, a whole lot of Scheveningen.