Hospitality is gradually shifting away from lengthy processes such as manual guest check-ins and parking systems that rely on physical tokens. In their place, digital solutions set new standards for efficiency and ease of use.

Let’s take vehicle access based on automatic license plate recognition. When directly integrated with cloud reservations and property management systems, this technology creates a seamless experience: efficient for those operating it behind the scene and effortless for its direct users.

Kasteel Steenenburg is a clear example of this evolution: an estate that combines historic ambiance with a fully integrated hospitality ecosystem, where MEWS manages guest services, and AVUTEC provides ANPR-based access for all visitor types.

The all-in-one solution for seamless access

Kasteel Steenenburg, part of the Libéma leisure and hospitality group, is a charming venue that blends luxury and modern hospitality in a unique setting close to ’s-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands. The castle offers elegant meeting spaces, fine dining, and overnight stays in a green, picturesque environment.

Part of the experience starts at the entrance. To access the parking area seamlessly, the following was implemented:

Module-X ANPR camera

Built into an elegant terminal positioned at the barrier gate, the camera is designed to blend seamlessly into the environment without disrupting the estate’s historic look. It discreetly reads license plates and directly operates the barrier, ensuring vehicles pass smoothly without manual checks.

AVUTEC x MEWS software integration

How is the ANPR camera able to achieve this? The Module-X integrates directly with the MEWS system via API, communicating in real-time. When a license plate match is found within a valid reservation period, the camera uses its built-in relays to trigger the barrier to open, automating vehicle access.

This ensures that guests with a valid MEWS guest reservation enjoy a contactless arrival while simultaneously freeing staff from repetitive tasks and manual checks.

CortexParking: whitelist management in the cloud

Additional vehicles not registered in MEWS can still be authorized to enter with CortexParking. This cloud tool developed by AVUTEC completes the ecosystem at Kasteel Steenenburg by enabling the management of access for non-guest vehicles through:

• Whitelists, synchronized with the camera via the cloud, for day visitors, event participants, vendors, or staff.
• A manual barrier control button that allows staff to instantly open the gate for vehicles not pre-registered in either MEWS or the whitelist, ensuring every access situation is covered.

CortexParking can be operated remotely on any PC, laptop, or smartphone with an internet connection.

Conclusion

By connecting flexible management tools, modern hospitality systems create efficiency for staff and seamless access for visitors. Kasteel Steenenburg shows how hospitality can embrace integrated technologies without losing its character, allowing tradition and innovation to go hand in hand.

Partners

B&G Fencing

The installation at Kasteel Steenenburg was carried out by B&G Fencing. B&G Fencing is a trusted perimeter security specialist with over 60 years of experience, providing complete services from installation to maintenance. They deliver reliable security solutions with a proactive, flexible, and knowledge-driven approach.

Libéma

With more than 20 locations, including Kasteel Steenenburg, Libéma is one of the largest leisure groups in the Netherlands. From amusement and holiday parks to trade fair and event venues, Libéma offers guests memorable experiences and a welcoming atmosphere across its diverse destinations.

MEWS

MEWS is a leading provider of cloud-based property management software for the hospitality industry. Its user-friendly platform streamlines operations for hotels, hostels, and hospitality businesses by automating tasks, managing reservations, and enhancing the guest experience.