The History of De Draak.
A story that lives on.
Discover the stories behind the Netherlands’ oldest hotel.
Centuries of stories.A warm welcome, every day.
Behind the façade on Grote Markt lies a history full of remarkable turns. Who was here before you? What made this hotel the De Draak of today?
Travel through time with us and discover a place where every generation adds a new chapter.
Where the story begins
A past that reaches beyond the archives
The city burned. De Draak endured.
1397 · The Great Fire
On 7 May 1397, a great fire destroyed almost all of Bergen op Zoom. De Draak and De Olifant were spared. The city archives were lost, so no one knows exactly how old De Draak is.
Newly discovered archives show De Draak as a city inn from 1406. A place where travellers gathered — and where you are still welcome today.
The Grote Markt in a historic print.
A New Chapter for De Draak
Caring for the past, with an eye to the future
A remarkable hotel.A personal mission.
1984 · The Hazen Family
On 6 December 1984, the Hazen family took over De Draak. In the years that followed, the hotel expanded to include the former vicarage across from the main building and Wapen van Henegouwen on Fortuinstraat. This building was once home to the Fortune brewery, which gave Fortuinstraat its name.
Historic buildings find a new purpose while retaining their character. And so the story of De Draak continues to unfold.
A glimpse of the former vicarage as it once was.
The Strength to Begin Again
2013 · Restoration and Renewal
A devastating fire in 2013 marked the beginning of an extensive restoration. After fifteen months of rebuilding, historic features and modern-day comfort came together once more.
The Hazen family calls its commitment to the future “Sustainable Stewardship”: preserving and passing on a remarkable past.
Proud Royal Warrant Holder
2022 · A Special Honour
Since 16 June 2022, Grand Hotel De Draak has held the Royal Warrant. A special milestone in our centuries-old story, one that the Hazen family and our team look back on with pride.
Discover the story behind this distinguished honour and what it means to De Draak.
The memoirs of Frans Hazen
The story behind the façade
What is it like to look after De Draak?
Personal memories
In his memoirs, Frans Hazen takes you through his experiences as an owner. Read about the challenges, renovations and decisions that have shaped the hotel.
Discover De Draak through the eyes of someone who is part of its story.
Stay a little.
Become part of the story.
Some stories are read. Others are experienced. Discover the atmosphere of De Draak for yourself and make your visit to Bergen op Zoom a memorable stay.