De Koolputten — Restaurant in Waasmunster

On the positives, this B&B is perfect for couples. Unfortunately the majority of the previous reviews concentrate on style over practicalities when you look past the design. Unless you look at the website photos in detail you may miss that the ‘family’ rooms have a top floor only accessed by a 15ft ladder. This ladder is dangerous for anyone under 10 or over 45, rendering the whole space unusable for many guests. This is unfortunate as the B&B has a decent playground for young children and at first sight appears child-friendly. ||The self-proclaimed ‘high end’ restaurant which shares the name of the B&B is run independently. This is the major problem of staying at the hotel with a family. The restaurant simply have no interest in catering for children. The hugely overpriced offer of ‘chicken with french fries’ as a children’s dish illustrates their lack of imagination and interest. Restaurant staff were dismissive of any feedback and simply suggested cancelling our dinner reservations, missing out on two adult tasting meals. We were generally surprised that a chef who presumably aspires to gaining a Michelin rosette would not bother to put any effort into a children’s menu. I guess this is reflected in the relatively generic 2021 review in the Michelin Guide with the simple award of ‘good cooking’. We ate sharing plates in the bar as an alternative which was not ideal, but the bar staff were very friendly and attentive. ||If you are a couple, do not let this review put you off the B&B, but as a family book two rooms and be aware that the restaurant is pretentious and unwelcoming...

Exquisite decor, very modern while preserving a an european touch. Somewhat remote for those who wouldn’t have a car.||The presence of Jan, who just started at the De Koolputten this week made all the difference in the world. (The place felt deserted and lonely prior his arrival). He was helpful, joyful, very professional with a lot of class... I really appreciated his presence.||Lights with motion detectors in the room are a bit annoying (especially if you wake up at night). This remains a minor issue considering the charm and quality of the place.||Checking-in was a bit of an issue as no one was present at the reception. Not sure if this was a particular situation, if Jan will assist with check-in or if more staff is required.||Anyhow... overall, still highly recommended.||I will come back at my next visit...

The first impression was amazing all the buildings were outstanding the architecture was brilliant in side and out. The beds were so comfortable with crisp white bedding. A double/King bed on the ground floor and also two single beds up above accessible by a wooden ladder.🧗‍♀️🧗‍♂️. The bathroom was great modern and full of space and also the shower was huge. |One down side was that to access the top two beds you had to climb a ladder, which for small children is extremely dangerous. Over all the room was very clean but the floor upstairs would benefit from a hoover 😬. Breakfast was delicious and plentiful- champagne for the adults at breakfast was a special touch!||In summary this is an outstanding B&B, which would have scored full marks if access to the upstairs beds was easier. Maybe a spiral staircase could...