Luxurious enjoyment at Hotel Reylof (Ghent)

Sometimes we forget what a wealth of cities Belgium has. Ghent is one of our favourite cities. Why? Because it is a city that is always on the move. Every minute, new food concepts open their doors or you find blissful new hotel concepts. Of course, you can also combine the two to your heart’s content. Our editors tested one of these new hotel stars in the firmament: Hotel Reylof in Ghent…

When we arrive at the hotel, the enormous majestic frontage immediately catches our eye. This really is a building with a lot of grandeur and history. You can see that. The building dates from 1724 and was owned by Baron Olivier Reylofs. Passing through the central coach passage, we arrive at the magnificent reception hall. The building has been completely restored to its original state but can also be updated with modern yet warm interior design. Marble is tastefully alternated with elements of wood, brass, bronze and velvet in the seats. A delightful sight.

From the grandeur of the white marble counter, a central staircase winds its way to the various floors. Before we can go to our room, we are kindly invited to a welcome cocktail in one of the lounges. While sipping a nice glass of Champagne, we are told everything about this fashion hotel. It is precisely this personal approach that makes a boutique hotel so attractive. Adjacent to the ‘bar salon’ we find a beautiful library, where it is lovely to relax behind the crackling fireplace.

The rooms were also taken care of down to the last detail, but it is the service that stands out. In the room was a personal handwritten welcome note, which immediately gave us a very nice feeling. Our surprise was even greater when there was a knock at the door. A staff member came to hand over a box of homemade chocolates from the Ghent Chocolatier Van Hoorebeke (http://www.chocolatesvanhoorebeke.be/).

Waking up in the morning in this building makes you look forward to the breakfast. In the dining room on the ground floor, you are invited to join the magnificent breakfast buffet. It is neatly spread over two long white marble arches. There is plenty of choice between sweet and savoury. Ideal to start the day well and to dive into the city later on.

We have been told that the inpandig restaurant ‘Lof’, where the chef Jasper Maatman, is stirring the pots, would also be great. That will be for another time then! And then we will also bring our swimsuit to enjoy the extensive spa possibilities in Hotel Reylof! Until the next one!