What started thirty years ago as one man’s dream has grown into a beloved wellness retreat where relaxation, nature and hospitality take centre stage. Today, Etienne Van Der Zypen and his daughters, Tine and Joke, are celebrating not only 30 years of Thermae Grimbergen, but also three decades of family history. Together, they look back on the early days, the milestones that shaped the journey and the dreams they still hope to fulfil in the years ahead.
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Tine: “It all started with our father’s dream and ambition. We already had a sauna in the basement at home and spent many enjoyable hours there. Gradually, the idea began to take shape.”
Etienne: “I had known the Thermae Grimbergen building since childhood and could see its potential. It may have seemed an unusual choice at the time, as most saunas were designed in a modern style. We deliberately chose an older building with character. We wanted to preserve its original features and create something truly special. That decision helped shape Thermae Grimbergen into what it is today.”
Joke: “I remember that period very well, as I also worked here as a student. Everything was much smaller in scale than it is today. We had two saunas, a steam room in the basement, no separate kitchen and not even a proper reception area. Guests were served on one side of the bar, while on the other side there was a small hatch where visitors could check in.
The garden was also much smaller back then, and there was no separate swimwear area. I can still picture the tiny entrance hall and the changing room, which was actually located within the reception area. It was a wonderful time, but also an exciting one.”
Etienne: “One of the things I’m most proud of is that my children joined the business. First Tine, and later Joke. What started as a student job gradually grew into a real commitment to Thermae. Over the years, the company naturally evolved into a genuine family business.”
Tine: “For me, that family spirit is one of Thermae’s most important values. It shapes the way we work and how we interact with our team. We are very hands-on and closely involved in the business. Everyone knows us, and we know everyone. I believe that personal connection is exactly where the strength of a family business lies.”
Etienne: “I’m actually very happy with what Thermae Grimbergen has become today. Of course, we continue to evolve, but always step by step. Sometimes you find inspiration while visiting another wellness centre or come across an interesting idea elsewhere. It makes you think, ‘That could work beautifully here too.’ That’s how new ideas continue to emerge.
As for what I would still like to achieve in the future, that’s difficult to say today. We prefer to see what opportunities come our way and how we can continue to grow Thermae Grimbergen while staying true to who we are.”
Tine: “My biggest wish is that we can continue working with a motivated team. People who share the same values and who are just as enthusiastic about helping to build this story as we are.
And, if I’m honest, I have another dream as well. It would be wonderful if, one day, Joke’s children and my own would want to work here too. Not because they feel they have to, but because they genuinely share that passion and would love to become part of the family story themselves.”
Joke: “Thirty years is, of course, a wonderful milestone, and we wanted to celebrate it together with our guests. That’s why we’re taking everyone back to the 1990s, the era when it all began. We’ll be organising a variety of fun sessions and activities inspired by our anniversary year.”
Tine: “We’ve also created two special wellness packages, allowing our guests to enjoy a relaxing wellness day at a very attractive price. Above all, we wanted to find meaningful ways to thank our guests and invite them to celebrate this special occasion with us.”
Thirty years of special memories, warm encounters and unforgettable moments of relaxation. And we’d love to celebrate this milestone with you.
From 9 November 2026 until 4 February 2027, enjoy one of our exclusive anniversary packages with 30% off. Choose from:
A full day at the thermen including a 50-minute Best Of Massage
A full day at the thermen including a 50-minute Best Of Facial Treatment
Just €79 instead of €114.90.
The anniversary packages are valid from Monday to Thursday, excluding the period from 19 December 2026 to 3 January 2027, and Wednesday 11 November 2026.
These packages are not available as gift vouchers.
Discover all anniversary offers here!
- Promo - Promo
Looking for the perfect gift for someone who seems to have everything? A wellness gift voucher from Thermae Grimbergen is always a great choice. Treat them to a moment of pure relaxation and enjoy an extra reward yourself: from 9 November 2026 until 3 January 2027, you'll receive 1 free day pass for every €100 spent on gift vouchers.
