Address: 41 st jakobsstraat , Bruges 8000, Belgium Show on map
The history and location of this fine old palace make it special even if the rooms aren't especially outstanding. Originally built in 1600, this grand building is ripe with history. In 1781 it hosted the Emperor of Austria. In 1918 it was briefly home to the Belgian government, returning from World War I exile. But its most famous guest, Napoleon Bonaparte, failed to show up! Nonetheless, the spiral staircase that was built especially for his aborted visit remains to this day. Above it is a window engraved with an 'N' in his honour. In the foyer, vast, if over-shiny, bowl-headed caryatids hold up the ceiling. There's a rather appealing jazz-themed bar. Down worn stone steps, the steamy cellars now contain a delightful little swimming pool overlooked by a gory headless modernist statue. Big beams buttress the neighbouring fitness room. Guest rooms lack any similar sense of history. Double beds aren't especially wide but the black-and-white bathrooms are up to scratch.
Nonetheless, the spiral staircase that was built especially for his aborted visit remains to this day. Above it is a window engraved with an 'N' in his honour. In the foyer, vast, if over-shiny, bowl-headed caryatids hold up the ceiling. There's a rather appealing jazz-themed bar. Down worn stone steps, the steamy cellars now contain a delightful little swimming pool overlooked by a gory headless modernist statue. Big beams buttress the neighbouring fitness room. Guest rooms lack any similar sense of history. Double beds aren't especially wide but the black-and-white bathrooms are up to scratch.
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Atmosphere: Elegant and Busy
Check-in / Check-out Earliest check-in: 2:00 AM Latest check-out time: 11:00 AM
US$178.00 per night
(US$89.00per person per night)
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The Markt is just a short stroll south down Sint-Jakobstraat but there are some interesting eating options to the north too. Try Saint Cantrois on Sint-Jakobstraat for a trendy yet heritage-rich decor. They also do Afternoon Tea, which includes a coffee and cake set.
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