At first it might seem sacrilegious to convert a 15th-century church into a luxury hotel, but even the most pious couldn't refuse a few days' holiday at Kruisherenhotel Maastricht in the Netherlands.

Originally built as a humble cloister for the Order of the Holy Cross in 1440, Kruisherenhotel Maastricht was rescued from neglect nearly six centuries later, becoming one of the most unique luxury hotels in the Netherlands.

Its gothic architecture lovingly restored and foundations carefully preserved, Kruisherenhotel Maastricht is as much a delicious romp through history as it is an escape into contemporary design. Here, you can stroll through the original cloister gardens and have breakfast in the nave of the church, or sit the vaulting mezzanine under the dazzling light installations of Ingo Maurer.

Kruisherenhotel Maastricht is also closely affiliated with the Aveda Spa in Maastricht, making it a wonderful conduit to some of the most holistic and inventive treatments in the city. The spa offers specific packages tailored for hotel guests, so you can recharge your batteries, inside and out, while enjoying your holiday.