NH Collection Gent does what it promises – and just that little bit extra
A thousand points for the always cozy and pleasant (as they themselves so nicely say) Ghent, a stone's throw from the Netherlands. The idiosyncrasy of this Flemish city, the young chefs who are in charge of hip and modern restaurants, and the old buildings that can be found on every corner of the city, make Ghent one of the nicest cities in Belgium.
Ghent has a rich history and one of the best places to experience that history is the recently renovated NH Collection GentIn this hotel, one of the largest in the city, you will sleep well and in style, but above all it has that little bit extra for a really good stay.
First things first, the location: NH Collection Gent is located opposite the town hall and a five-minute walk from all the city's major attractions, such as St. Bavo's Cathedral, the Gravensteen Castle and the Belfry of Ghent.
Hotel NH Collection Gent is an old acquaintance in the city. Formerly known as NH Gent Belfort, a familiar face in the city for years, just needed that one makeover to really stand out royal chic to make you feel—without compromising on that wonderful living room feeling. It's all about the details, and they are fine here. Because yes, your company, the city and the atmosphere make your trip, but hospitality? That makes or breaks your stay.
And although history is abundantly present, it does not creak anywhere here. On the contrary: At NH Collection Gent, everything has been thought through down to the last detail (hello, Belgium) and it is all about storytelling, and that goes way back. The hotel owes its origins to the 1913 World Exhibition, but also honours the Ghent textile magnates from the 14th century. Inspiration enough, with a nod to Hendrik Conscience (who doesn't know him?) and the love story of Veerle Van Artevelde and Lieven Denys—forbidden love in Flemish.
We could open a history book, but more importantly: how do you see it? Well, from the 13th century Medieval Crypt (perfect for parties and celebrations) to Grand Café Van Artevelde and the beautifully modern suites—all shrouded in history, but beautiful to the eye and including the modernity that we find so pleasant in a stay.
Strolling through the city, hopping from café to café—the best thing there is, but boy, does it drain your energy. Retreating to your own place for the weekend is even better, especially if that room is a nice place. And that is definitely the case here. In one of the corners of the room you can plop down on a chair, bed or couch, perfect for completely unwinding.
A special one shout out to the Junior Suites, named after members of the Van Artevelde family—known for the city's textile history. Extra nice: the cozy alcove with a view of Ghent, perfect for daydreaming. And then we haven't even mentioned the NH Collection bathroom products, the own line that you would love to take with you in your suitcase.
Relaxation is everywhere here, but that niche in the Junior Suite? That is really a winner. And man, the views here are wonderful.
You can easily reach Ghent by train, but if you come by car, you can park easily under the hotel.
Somersaulting into the city, but where to? Phew, hard to sum up like this and that's why we made a list of the best tips. But for convenience, we'll already list a few:
- Visit and tasting at the Artevelde city brewery: local beers, a good story and a nice setting.
- Brasserie Pakhuis Gent: grand, casual and fine dining.
- Bike Ghent: with Christophe you cycle to the discovered places of Ghent.
- Mémé Gusta: for your Flemish classics in a cozy, vintage setting. On the menu you will find dishes such as stew (also available in a vegetarian version), queen's snack, roast beef and eel in green.
- Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede: chocolate with ham or mustard from Ghent? Still delicious and at Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede they win prizes for it.