Hotel Van Cleef is the house-party option in Bruges. It occupies a grand Italianate mansion at Molenmeers 11, on the waterfront in the historic centre, and it is run in the style of a private home rather than a hotel, with a marble-and-stone lobby floor that dates from the eighteenth century, a lobby fireplace, a library, a lounge with a grand piano and a glass conservatory where breakfast is served, or out on the canalside terrace in good weather. It is a four-star boutique property with a small number of individually styled rooms, so you are more likely to be greeted by name than by a queue. Touches that are rare at this level include free bicycle rental and a free guided city tour each day, which helps a first-time visitor get oriented quickly, as well as private massages that can be arranged. The location is around ten minutes on foot from the Markt and the Christmas market, close enough to walk everywhere but outside the main tourist crush, on a stretch of canal that is quiet and pretty.
Location and getting around
Molenmeers is on the edge of the Sint-Gillis quarter, with the canals just outside, and the Markt, the Belfry and the Burg are a pleasant walk away. The station is farther, so a taxi helps with luggage. The free bicycles are a great way to see the ring of canals and the windmills, though you should take care in the busiest streets.
The rooms and public spaces
The rooms vary in size and character, so look at the room descriptions before booking and ask for a canal-facing room if the view matters to you. The public rooms are the real draw, with an inviting library, a lounge with a piano and a conservatory that is lovely at breakfast. Breakfast is served daily and is charged separately, so decide whether it suits your plans.
Who it suits
Couples, honeymooners and independent travellers who like an intimate house with personality and plenty of local advice from the hosts. It is less suited to travellers wanting a pool, a spa or an on-site restaurant, and families with young children may prefer something larger.
Good to know
On-site parking is limited and charged per day, so reserve it ahead or use a public car park. The house is a historic building, so allow for stairs and ask about access if you have mobility needs. Book early for the Christmas market weeks and spring weekends, because a small house fills quickly.
Why stay here
- ✓Italianate mansion setting
- ✓Glass conservatory
- ✓Lounge with grand piano
- ✓Library
- ✓Canalside terrace
- ✓Free bicycle rental
- ✓Free daily guided city tour
- ✓Ten minutes from the Markt
Good questions
Where is Hotel Van Cleef in Bruges?+
It is at Molenmeers 11, on the waterfront in the historic centre, about ten minutes on foot from the Markt and the Christmas market.
Does Hotel Van Cleef offer free bicycles and tours?+
The hotel offers free bicycle rental and a free daily guided city tour. Ask at reception about times and availability.
Is breakfast included?+
Breakfast is served daily in the conservatory or on the terrace and is charged separately on many rates, so check your booking.
