The feminine heart of hospitality

You have to know where to look to find Weeshuis Gouda. Tucked behind a discreet gate in the cultural heart of the city, this boutique hotel reveals a world where history, regional flavors and feminine energy meet in harmony.

A historic treat with a feminine legacy 

The story of this former orphanage goes back more than 500 years, shaped largely by women. In 1542, seven nuns founded a convent on this very site. After a devastating fire, two orphanage matrons rebuilt it into an orphanage in 1599. “That part of the history deeply inspired me,” says owner Sharon van Gastel. “I wanted to reintroduce the femininity that has lived in this building for over five centuries.” The result is captivating. Throughout the hotel, a feminine touch is present in every detail. Soft fabrics, rich textures, an elegant color palette, intimate lighting, layered atmospheres and organic forms all create an unmistakable female signature.

 A culinary tribute to powerful women 

The ode to women continues in the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, LIZZ, named after two icons: Queen Elizabeth and Elizabeth Taylor. Here, chef Remco Kuijpers tells a sensory story that is light, refined and bold. Vegetables, fruit and spices take center stage in his artistic creations, layered with Asian influences and unexpected twists that highlight the purity of seasonal Dutch ingredients. Local fish or meat completes each dish. Unconventional wine pairings – often sourced from small, unknown vineyards – elevate the dining experience, making every course unforgettable. LIZZ was awarded a Michelin star two years ago, and rightly so. 

Coffee, cocktails and classic charm

 Bar COCO, named after the iconic Coco Chanel, is a stylish space open to the public daily for lunch, coffee and patisserie that is just as beautiful as it is delicious. Afternoon tea here is a visual and culinary delight. COCO also stands for Coffee & Cocktails, making it the perfect blend of elegance and indulgence in one of the hotel’s most stunning spaces. 

The only powder room in the Benelux

 Weeshuis Gouda is not only a sanctuary for guests but also a sought-after venue for private events. Its elegant ambiance and full-service philosophy make it especially appealing for weddings, with couples often reserving the entire hotel. But the true hidden gem? The Powder Room – the only one of its kind in the Benelux. “It’s a serene, feminine space designed for women to enjoy a moment of me-time, self-care or peaceful reflection,” van Gastel explains. “While it’s become a favorite for brides preparing for their big day, it’s equally inviting for any woman seeking a quiet retreat, a touch of luxury, or simply a pause to feel pampered and inspired by the elegant, thoughtfully curated interior.”

“I wanted Weeshuis Gouda to reflect the strength and elegance of the women who shaped its history. Their legacy lives on in every detail.” - Sharon van Gastel