Botaniek Hotel

Situated in a charming 18th-century mansion with a salmon-colored facade, this small boutique property blends cozy interiors with the history of Bruges. The hotel was taken over by the current owners in 2013, a welcoming couple who lives on-site, interacting with guests in multiple languages. It's a tidy place, with decor that successfully combines contemporary pieces with antiques. The breakfast nook stands out with its brick-and-marble fireplace, parquet floors, modern tables with leather chairs, and lavish wreathed chandelier. The lounge area is the only other public space. It has a intimate vibe, with antique paintings and tapestries on the walls, a small old-fashioned wooden bar, and leather armchairs providing seating beneath another flowery chandelier. 

Botaniek Hotel is on a quiet street right on the border of the picturesque historic center. A few minutes’ walk takes guests to the romantic canals, while restaurants and cafes are within a five-minute walk, as is the Belfry Tower. Most of the top sites are under a 10-minute walk from the hotel, including the Markt -- Bruges' central square -- as well as the Church of Our Lady, Groeninge Museum, Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Provinciaal Hof. Though almost everything can be reached on foot -- shopping, restaurants, bars, and popular attractions -- there is a bus stop around the corner for those who prefer it, while the main train station is a seven-minute drive or a 20-minute walk away. It’s a 35-minute drive to Ostend-Bruges International Airport, or a bit over an hour by public transit.

The Botaneik's nine rooms are each individually decorated, some in a contemporary style, while others have a more old-fashioned, 18th-century vibe. Most rooms combine cream and tan furnishings with rich colors like royal blue or crimson as well as subtle floral patterns. Rooms are typically carpeted in navy or taupe, while white linens on beds are topped in velour or satin bed runners. Chandeliers, tufted armchairs, and marble fireplaces in some of the rooms add a touch of romance to the space. Upper-level floors have lovely views of rooftops and towers. All rooms have small flat-screen TVs, kettles, safes, and free Wi-Fi, but they lack air-conditioning. Bathrooms are tiny and can be a tight squeeze. Some have cramped shower stalls, while others have walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided. 

This small hotel has few extra features beyond its cozy lobby/lounge, which has a small bar, and its breakfast room. A decent free breakfast buffet is served here in the mornings and includes hot and cold items. Wi-Fi is free throughout. The hotel doesn’t provide parking, but the nearest parking area is a two-minute walk away (and costs a fee).