Our History
Welcome to the rich history of Hotel De Koppelpaarden, a unique place steeped in stories and memories dating back to the early 1950s. Located in the heart of Lichtenvoorde, this historic establishment has undergone numerous transformations over the decades but has always maintained its role as a vibrant meeting place for community, celebration, and togetherness.
Renovation 2017, 2018, and 2023
In 2016, the distinctive hospitality property had been on the market for some time. With the intention of preserving the rich history of De Koppelpaarden, a dedicated group of seven involved Lichtenvoordenaren jointly decided to take matters into their own hands and acquire the property. The purchase was completed in November 2016, and in the following years, in 2017 and 2018, the property underwent a thorough transformation.
To cherish the historic heritage of De Koppelpaarden, not only was the existing hotel renovated, but the adjacent building was also integrated into the whole. In the year 2023, this adjacent building was completely renovated, including the addition of eight new hotel rooms. Additionally, a reception area, a boardroom, and a contemporary breakfast room were realized, further enhancing De Koppelpaarden’s offering to its guests.
1970s and 1980s
In the swinging 1970s and 1980s, the Kruip family, the then owners, made a drastic decision in 1974: the hotel function of De Koppelpaarden disappeared due to stricter regulations. But that didn’t mean the end of the festivities. On the contrary, De Koppelpaarden remained the epicenter of lively celebrations. During fairs, the Keifestival, and the legendary New Year’s parties of the KGB band, the hall was always too small. Everyone wanted to be there because De Koppelpaarden was simply ‘the place to be’ for unforgettable highlights.
Meeting point of the 1950s
Since the 1950s, Hotel De Koppelpaarden steadily grew into the meeting place of Lichtenvoorde. It was the hotspot for residents and associations to meet, marry, mourn, dance, and celebrate. The excellent cuisine and warm hospitality of De Koppelpaarden were widely praised. During the annual fair and the comedy evenings of the local carnival association De Keienslöppers, the halls were packed. Only the High Mass in the Bonifacius Church at that time attracted more visitors than De Koppelpaarden.
Built in the early 18th century
In the bustling heart of Lichtenvoorde is located Hotel De Koppelpaarden, housed in a historic and striking building. This building dates back to the early 18th century and originally served as a location for hitching horses to the horse-drawn tram. The name “De Koppelpaarden” still recalls that time. Travelers waiting for their destination with the horse-drawn tram used this place to have a drink before continuing their journey. During that period, there was also a shop in the current De Koppelpaarden, where colonial goods such as coffee, tea, tobacco, and spices were sold. The distinctive hexagonal tower, which is still a prominent part of the building today, was added in 1926.
