B&B The Verhaegen, Ghent, Belgium - Explore & Book

"Ghent is an old city with a young soul; medieval Flemish architecture stands perfectly preserved along winding canals, now housing buzzing bars, boutiques and a thriving food scene suited to the trendy residents of this university town. The result is a surprisingly seamless blend of old and new; heritage without a hint of stuffiness. A spirit perfectly embodied at The Verhaegen.When Jan Rosseel and Marc Vergauwe met in design school, they could never have guessed that decades later they'd become the owners of a derelict 18th-century mansion, let alone make it their home. But that’s exactly what happened; the interior designers bought a palatial townhouse in central Ghent, in need of complete restoration. 18 months later, the stunning result was The Verhaegen, a private mansion turned B&B, which showcases innovative Dutch and French design, and is now classified as a historical monument. There are 9 spacious bedrooms and suites, each with a unique fusion of antiques and modernist touches. Crystal chandeliers hang from the ceilings, sumptuous fabrics furnish the beds, and quirky finds are displayed in hidden corners. It’s certainly not a museum, though; rather a beautiful lived-in home that you're invited to share, and it’s exactly what we’d hoped to find in historic Ghent. Highs A must for art lovers and those interested in Flemish architecture; high-quality furnishings and curated art pieces decorate the interior, and original features have been carefully restoredPerfectly placed for Ghent’s medieval canals and galleries, and just 5 minutes' walk from the GrasleiThe warmth of service. Jan and Marc go out of their way to make you feel welcome in their home, as if you are visiting old friendsHigh-ceilinged rooms with smart panelling, designer fabrics, mural paintings and marble fireplaces. Gorgeous bathrooms, tooBreakfast in the elegant dining room is fabulous: fine china, silver tableware, candles, freshly squeezed OJ and an assortment of tasty treats Lows Rates don't include breakfast, and rooms are expensive compared to more simple B&Bs in the area, but they're absolutely worth it for special occasionsClosed on Sunday & Monday nightsThis being an elegant B&B, it's quiet in the evenings, and there's no night bar, but there are plenty of restaurants and bars nearbyThere's no lift or night porter so no arrivals after 9pm (contact the hotel beforehand if this is an issue)There is a very friendly dog living here - a perk for some" - Alice Tegg