Hotel Harmony sits on the Kraanlei, one of the prettiest canal streets in Ghent, about a minute's walk from Gravensteen castle. It is a polished, boutique-style property in the old centre with a sociable bar, a terrace and a seasonal outdoor pool, which is unusual in a city centre hotel. The rooms range from compact Cosy Doubles to Luxury rooms with views, Exceptional rooms with balconies, family rooms and large suites, so it suits couples, small families and travellers who want character as well as comfort. The location is ideal for evening strolls along the water and for early starts at the castle, and the bars and restaurants of Patershol are a short walk away.
Location and getting around
The Kraanlei runs along the canal behind the Graslei, and the hotel's position means Gravensteen is about one minute away on foot, the Korenmarkt four, the town hall six and St Bavo's Cathedral and the Christmas market area seven. Ghent-Dampoort station is about eighteen minutes on foot, so use a tram or taxi with luggage.
Brussels Airport is about an hour and a quarter by car. Several restaurants and bars, including the well known beer house Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant, are within two minutes. The area is part of the low emission zone, so ask the hotel about arrival and access if you drive.
Rooms and facilities
There are nine room types, from Cosy Doubles of around twenty-two square metres through Luxury Doubles and Luxury Twins to Exceptional Doubles with views or a balcony, an Exceptional Family room for four and two large suites, the Suite Double and the Suite Executive, which sleep three or four. The hotel has a bar and a terrace, a seasonal outdoor pool with sun loungers, free WiFi, air conditioning, meeting rooms and a 24-hour front desk.
Buffet breakfast is available for a supplement, and there is no on-site restaurant, so you will eat out in the neighbourhood. Parking is available for a nightly fee, and babysitting and airport transfers can be arranged for a charge. The hotel holds a Green Key sustainability certification.
Who it suits and what to know: this is a good choice for couples and for anyone who wants an atmospheric setting beside the water, within easy reach of the castle and the bars. Rooms with a view or a balcony cost more but add to the experience. The seasonal pool is open only in warmer months, so ask about it if it matters.
Because the street is popular, expect some evening noise at weekends and request a room away from the street if you prefer quiet. Rates rise in summer, on weekends and during the December markets, so book ahead. Families should compare the Exceptional Family room with the larger suites, and ask about extra beds.
Why stay here
- ✓Seasonal outdoor pool
- ✓Bar
- ✓Terrace
- ✓Free WiFi and air conditioning
- ✓Suites and family room
- ✓Meeting rooms
- ✓Green Key certified
- ✓24-hour front desk
Good questions
Where is Hotel Harmony?+
On the Kraanlei, a canal street in the old centre, about one minute on foot from Gravensteen and four from the Korenmarkt.
Does the hotel have a pool?+
Yes, a seasonal outdoor pool with sun loungers. It is open in the warmer months, so check dates when you book.
Is there a restaurant?+
There is a bar but no on-site restaurant. Many restaurants and beer bars are within a few minutes' walk.
