The Belgian city of Ghent is a weekend break dream – picturesque and laid-back with real character and tradition. A vibrant university city with a buzzing atmosphere, Ghent lies somewhere between the ‘chocolate box’ perfection of Bruges and the avant-garde fashion holy land of Antwerp. The social heart of Ghent is by the river Lys canal, so, where better to stay than right in the centre of the action…
Location
Ghent Marriott occupies the best spot in the historical Old Town, right on the canal. The listed original brick and wood facade is a striking contrast to the modern interior with an impressive glass atrium.
The building housing the Ghent Marriott has a rather illustrious history as a former brothel, denoted by the backward facing golden swans on the facade, although all signs of vice have been stripped away in favour of sleek, contemporary interiors.
The Room
My room on the second floor was very spacious and bright in a calming, nautical palette of yellow and blue palette with deep wood highlights. Unlike some hotel rooms, the bed wasn’t the only focus of the room, as I had a large work desk, a comfy seating area and a large flat screen TV. This is particularly good for business travellers who need a bit of extra living space to avoid cabin fever.
A tea and coffee maker, fluffy bathrobes, powerful air con and free broadband internet made the stay even more comfortable.
I first experienced a Marriott ‘Revive’ bed at London Marriott Grosvenor Square and I can barely describe just how heavenly they are. The ultra-soft, dreamy beds are a Marriott trademark and are present at all of the group’s hotels worldwide, so you can always look forward to a good night’s sleep.
The Bathroom
The marble bathroom was just the right size and had a bathtub-shower, so you can relax and unwind properly in the evening. Ghent Marriott has beaten the record for the number of bathroom amenities offered. The bathroom sink area was filled with bits and pieces including dental kits, a comb, bath salts, hand soap, facial soap, loofah, body lotion….the list goes on.
A Welcome Treat
Waiting in my room for me was a delightful box filled with a double layer of Belgian truffles and pralines from the neighbouring chocolate shop, Van Hoorebeke. Belgian chocolate was then ticked off my list, although it made a continual appearance throughout the trip.
Drinks at Poppi Bar
On the first night we came back for drinks in the relaxing Poppi Bar, at the centre of the hotel atrium, which was lit up in changing colours at night. The barman at Poppi makes an excellent Amaretto Sour and we even spotted member of the BBC Symphony orchestra having a post-concert night cap.
Breakfast
Marriott breakfasts are always rather special and the breakfast served each morning at Korenhuis was a real highlight. There was an excellent hot buffet selection, a variety of mini pastries and fresh bread, cheese, yoghurt, sliced fruit and cereal.
Korenhuis comprises three separate dining rooms, but our favourite was the deep red room with large windows overlooking the canal, where we enjoyed a private dinner on our last evening.
To burn off the indulgent Belgian cuisine, Ghent Marriott offers a fitness room and Marriott bikes that you can hire to explore the city. As the Old Town is pedestrianised, locals ride their bikes everywhere, even at night on the way home from the pub, after a few shots of jenever!
Ghent is perfect for city breaks, as you can see the best bits over a few days and still have plenty hidden gems left to uncover on a second visit. Ghent Marriott’s enviable location, superior service and stunning canal-side views make it an exceptional place to stay – in fact, I could hardly bear to leave.
Photos: Chérie City and Ghent Marriott.
Chérie City was a guest of Ghent Marriott.