A warm home for CHIO guests for 15 years: Van der Valk Hotel Blijdorp celebrates anniversary
Since its opening, Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam-Blijdorp has been a trusted home base for riders, officials, and guests of CHIO Rotterdam. This year, once again, the hotel welcomes many of those involved in the event. And it's a festive year: on June 17, the hotel celebrates its 15th anniversary—just two days before the start of CHIO. Perfect timing for guests to be introduced to a brand-new concept: Leonidas by Van der Valk, a barista café combined with delicious Belgian chocolates.
Since April 2024, Jack van der Heiden has been the General Manager of the hotel. He already feels right at home in Rotterdam. "It’s a dynamic city, a city full of life. You can feel that same energy in our hotel," says Van der Heiden.
Although Jack previously had little to do with equestrian sports, that changed quickly after his first introduction to CHIO. “In October, the CHIO Rotterdam Business Club held an event at our hotel. And last month, I attended the anniversary celebration of the Vrienden van het CHIO. The pas de deux performance by two riders from Horse Center Pirouette truly left an impression on me. And with Diergaarde Blijdorp as our next-door neighbor, you can’t help but have a soft spot for animals,” he adds with a smile.
Fresh energy, familiar hospitality
Since his arrival, Van der Heiden has invested heavily in the team. “We now have a strong team with a genuine passion for hospitality—and I’m proud of that. The opening of the Chocolate Barista Café marks a visible step in our renewal plans. For many riders, our hotel has been a trusted home base during CHIO for years. They’ll definitely notice that we’re continuing to evolve—and there’s much more to come. For us, it’s all about putting a smile on our guests’ faces.”
In short: a festive and welcoming stay awaits guests of the upcoming CHIO edition at Van der Valk Rotterdam-Blijdorp—full of hospitality, great coffee, and the familiar CHIO spirit.