Perhaps less well-known than its smaller neighbour Bruges, but no less beguiling, Ghent has everything. A historic centre of breathtaking architectural beauty, whose ornate gabled facades reflect in its picturesque rivers and canals; a rare cultural heritage from the 15th century Flemish Golden Age, to be found in its museums, religious and civic buildings; but also a thriving popular culture in its festivals and events, and vibrant night life in its bars, cafes, restaurants. The illumination of the city's monuments at night has even been recognised by a UNESCO award.
Van Eyck's masterpiece "the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb" in St Bavo's Cathedral, the Belfry with its symbolic dragon spire now a UNESCO World Heritage site (the illumination of the city's monuments at night has also been recognised), and the imposing medieval Castle of the Counts are unmissable highlights, but the true beauty of Ghent lies in the constant, unexpected hidden gems, the narrow streets, little bridges, ornate squares and peaceful beguinages that await discovery on an aimless stroll. Or again, in the unique atmosphere provided by the rivers and canals, for centuries the pulsating arteries of the city.
The self-contained nature of its historical centre, so ideal for exploring on foot (and by boat), makes Ghent the perfect short break destination. Not only is it now so accessible by Eurostar and a quick local connection, but also, because of its central location, it makes a great base for day trips to, say, Brussels or those other Flemish jewels Bruges and Antwerp, each a mere half an hour away by rail.
Ghent-River-Hotel
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An exceptional hotel of genuine style and character, this visually stunning conversion of a former warehouse and 16th century Renaissance house marries chic modern designer features to traditional charm.
It enjoys a prime riverside location in the medieval centre. In rooms and public spaces alike the accent is on light and space. There is a bar, lounge, sauna, gym, interior courtyard garden and panoramic rooftop breakfast room. The 77 individually styled, air-conditioned rooms are all with bath or shower, wc, tv, safe and minibar. American buffet breakfast
Superior room supplement: £7.50
Special Offers:
3 nights for the price of 2
during July & August
Ghent-River-Hotel Prices
| Dates |
1 Nov 08 - 31 Mar 09
1 Nov - 31 Dec 09 |
1 Jul - 31 Aug 09 |
1 Apr - 30 Jun 09
1 Sep - 31 Oct 09 |
| No. of Nights |
2 |
3 |
4 |
Ex Nt |
Sgl Nt |
2 |
3 |
4 |
Ex Nt |
Sng Nt |
2 |
3 |
4 |
Ex Nt |
Sng Nt |
| Price (£) |
224 |
289 |
354 |
65 |
53 |
220 |
283 |
334 |
63 |
51 |
262 |
343 |
425 |
82 |
46 |
| Terms |
Prices per person in £GBP and include Eurostar and TGV. Hotel Supplements may also apply and will be advised on booking. Check 1st class and peak travel supplements here. |
Hotel Gravensteen
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With a great central location facing the eponymous 12th century Castle of the Counts, in the watery, medieval heart of Ghent, this charming traditional hotel has been skilfully renovated while remaining faithful to its 19th century manor-house origins.
The 49 individually decorated rooms are in 2 buildings – an inner courtyard leads from the manor to the converted coachhouse – and all are spacious, with bath or shower, wc, tv, safe, minibar and tea/coffee-making facilities. There is a cosy bar, small comfortable lounge, sauna and gym. Hot buffet breakfast
Superior room upgrade: £9 and with a view £12
Special Offers:
3 nights for the price of 2
during July & August
Hotel Gravensteen Prices
| Dates |
1 Nov 08 - 31 Mar 09
1 Nov - 31 Dec 09 |
1 Jul - 31 Aug 09 |
1 Apr - 30 Jun 09
1 Sep - 31 Oct 09 |
| No. of Nights |
2 |
3 |
4 |
Ex Nt |
Sgl Nt |
2 |
3 |
4 |
Ex Nt |
Sng Nt |
2 |
3 |
4 |
Ex Nt |
Sng Nt |
| Price (£) |
215 |
276 |
337 |
61 |
44 |
218 |
280 |
342 |
62 |
46 |
224 |
287 |
351 |
64 |
47 |
| Terms |
Prices per person in £GBP and include Eurostar and TGV. Hotel Supplements may also apply and will be advised on booking. Check 1st class and peak travel supplements here. |