Früher: Villa Bon Séjour

Former names: Villa Bon Séjour, Haus Kronprinz Wilhelm, Haus Kelch, Haus Miramare, Palast-Hotel

Today: Villa Strandblick

Architecture: In the book “Pommersche Bäderarchitektur” (Pomeranian Spa Architecture) by Wolfgang Schneider & Torsten Seegert, the building is described as follows: This solidly constructed building follows the pattern set by buildings such as Haus Sirene, Villa Baltic, etc.: a nearly cubic structure with loggia constructions on the sides and on the front facing the promenade. The basic structure is a three-story building with six axes on the promenade side. The two central axes protrude from the front of the building in the form of a risalit. The upper section is formed by an attic-like construction, which is complemented by vase-shaped structures at the corners. … In addition, the attic design in the risalit area is openwork, creating a certain transparency in the construction. In front of the building is an open metal loggia arrangement.

Year of construction: Around 1902/03

History/owners until 1945: Villa Bon Séjour (loosely translated: beautiful residence or have a pleasant stay) was built around 1902/03 and has had many different names over the course of its existence, probably due to changing owners. What remained constant was that the villa was a lodging house, usually connected to a restaurant.

On March 21, 1903, the owner, a Mr. Chr. Damp, announced the completion of the shell construction in the RKA (Rügensches Kreis- und Anzeigenblatt). When the lodging house opened, he offered 20 rooms and a kitchen.

In 1909, the villa was described in detail in the Binz guide: Villa Bon Séjour directly on the beach, in close proximity to the cold and warm sea baths. Rooms well furnished in keeping with modern times, with balconies. Electric light, water supply, sewerage. Season from the beginning of May to the end of October. Best recommendations. … Owner: C. Damp. The name was probably changed in 1917. The house was called Kronprinz Wilhelm, and Chr. Damp was still the owner.

From 1920, the owner changed. Paul Kelch took over the villa and immediately gave the building his name. The apartment directory listed: Villa Kelch, owner Kelch, 22 rooms, no kitchen, and additionally in the advertisement “Konditorei und Café Haus Kelch” (Kelch Pastry Shop and Café).

A few years later, the description was somewhat more detailed as follows:

First-class Pension Haus Kelch. Located directly on the beach, between the landing stage and the family bathing area. Own pastry shop and café. Concert and dance hall. All rooms with lake view. Recognized first-class catering. Owner: Paul Kelch (from the Binz guide “Praktische Winke” from 1924 and 1925).

In the 1930s, it became the Hotel Miramare, a first-class hotel with a restaurant, wine bar, and café (owner: Max Böhm, 1935).

Shortly thereafter, the villa reappeared as the Palast-Hotel, owned by Herrmann Stamer. An advertisement from 1937 also invited guests to a tea dance.

GDR era: During the GDR era, the villa housed rental apartments and a restaurant, among other things. In the 1950s, it was initially the HO restaurant “Strandkasino,” which later became the HOG “Zum Goldbroiler.”

After 1990: The villa was renovated and converted into vacation homes and apartments. It was given the innocuous name “Strandblick” (beach view). In 2020, new metal railings were installed on the balconies and terraces of the villa. It can be assumed that this was done in reference to times past.

Current use: Vacation homes and apartments

Interesting facts/anecdotes: During the GDR era, the villa was home to the famous Goldbroiler Bar, which was popular with young and old alike. And for entertainment, there was dancing three times a week, a popular meeting place for vacationers.

Photo: Binzer Bucht Tourismus collection, Klaus Boy, Stephan Zobler, Lutz Grünke, private

Text: Klaus Boy, Binzer Bucht Tourismus