The city of Antwerp in Belgium is a city full of rich history, gorgeous architecture, and stunning heritage buildings. The city exudes elegance and has an old-world charm that has made it a beloved destination for luxury travellers. Antwerp has managed to create a nice balance of modern and historical in its accommodations. In this blog post I share my top picks for the most fascinating heritage accommodations in Antwerp. Whether you are looking for a lavish stay at a 16th-century mansion or a more intimate experience in a boutique hotel that has been around for centuries.

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Hotel Julien

The Hotel Julien is named after Saint Julian, the patron saint of travellers. The hotel was initially built as an orphanage in 1553, then later converted to a convent for nuns. In the early 19th century, it was turned into a hospital and served as a hospital until 1979. After the hospital closed down, the building remained abandoned until 2011 when the current proprietors took ownership and began an extensive renovation process to convert it into the luxurious accommodation it is today.

The Hotel Julien’s elegance and grandeur reflect Antwerp’s rich history and culture with its neo-Renaissance architecture, ornate marble floors, and opulent chandeliers. The lobby, a former chapel for the convent, preserves the original neo-Renaissance fresco on the ceiling painted by Van Hoecke. The hotel comprises 21 rooms and suites, each one uniquely designed with modern amenities, and several of the rooms have views overlooking the courtyard garden.

Sustainability

The Hotel Julien prides itself on its commitment to sustainability. It has a green-roof system, an energy-efficient air conditioning and heating system, LED lights, and eco-friendly toiletries provided in the bathrooms. Sustainability extends beyond the physical infrastructure as it aims to operate a socially sustainable business that advocates for the empowerment of the local community and adheres to ethical procurement practices.

Hotel Rubens

Hotel Rubens was built in 1553 as a private mansion by a wealthy merchant family. Over the years, the building was used as a monastery, a bank, an office building, and finally, in 1989 it was converted into a hotel. The hotel’s original features such as the fireplace, floors, and stained-glass windows have been carefully preserved, making it a historical landmark in Antwerp.

Hotel Rubens offers 43 luxurious rooms with an elegant and traditional decor that reminds you of the building’s historical roots. The rooms are spacious, comfortable and fully equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. The suites offer even more luxury with additional features such as a whirlpool bath, a rain shower, and a seating area.

Meeting and Event Spaces

Hotel Rubens is an ideal choice for those looking to host a corporate event, conference or a special celebration. The hotel has two meeting rooms that are fully equipped with modern audiovisual equipment. Moreover, the hotel’s beautiful courtyard with a fountain is an excellent location for a wedding ceremony, reception dinner, or a private party.

Location

Hotel Rubens is located in the centre of Antwerp’s historic district and is within walking distance of major tourist attractions such as the Cathedral of Our Lady and Rubenshuis. The hotel is also close to the shopping street, Meir, and the famous Grote Markt square, which are perfect for exploring Antwerp’s local culture and fashion scene.

Hotel Franq

The building which is now home to the Franq Hotel has a long and interesting history. It was originally built as a bank in the early 1600s, and remained in use as such for many years. In 1820, the building was sold to the Antwerp City Council for use as a courthouse, which it remained until the 1970s. During this time, the building fell into disuse and was largely neglected.

Thankfully, in the 21st century, a group of investors recognised the historic and cultural importance of the building and transformed it into the modern, luxurious hotel that it is today. The renovation began in 2016, and saw the careful restoration of much of the original features of the building, such as the beams and the brick walls. The FranQ Hotel opened its doors in September 2018 after a 2-year renovation process.

Upon arrival at the Franq Hotel, visitors are greeted by a marbled entrance hall with a grand wooden staircase, leading to the upper floors. Many of the 42 rooms and suites are spacious and well-appointed, with luxurious touches such as rainfall showers, Egyptian cotton sheets, and king-sized beds. All the rooms come equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi.

Michelin star Restaurant

One of the main features of the FranQ Hotel is its in-house restaurant which serves up a delicious range of contemporary cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients. The restaurant has gained a reputation for its gourmet cuisine and was awarded a Michelin star in 2021. The expert sommeliers can help pair your food with the perfect wine from their extensive cellar.

The FranQ Hotel is an ideal location for exploring all of Antwerp’s cultural offerings. For example, the Saint Carolus Borromeus church is just a short walk away, and the cathedral of Our Lady is also within easy reach. The hotel staff are well-informed and happy to provide recommendations or organise tours and activities, to make the most of your stay in Antwerp.

Hotel Botanic Sanctuary

Antwerp is a vibrant and colourful city with a rich history and heritage. It is a bustling cultural hub, home to world-renowned fashion designers, museums, and galleries. Amidst its many attractions, the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp stands out for its sheer beauty and grandeur. It is a magnificent heritage building that blends neo-classical and art nouveau elements to create a stunning architectural masterpiece. The Botanic Sanctuary is an exceptional venue for luxurious weddings and celebrations, providing luxurious accommodation, breathtaking gardens, and top-notch services that cater to your needs.

History

The Botanic Sanctuary in Antwerp stands as one of the esteemed members of Leading Hotels of the World. The Sanctuary is a 5-star superior city-centre retreat renowned for its gastronomy, spa, and weekend getaways. Nestled in the heart of Antwerp, the story of the sanctuary goes back almost 800 years. In 1238, an order of monks established a monastery and the St Elisabeth hospital on this site. Throughout the centuries, this stunning property witnessed expansions and renovations. It has 15th century Gothic gems serving as venues for special events and celebrations.

Apothecary and exotic plants

In the 16th century, the renowned pharmacist Peeter van Coudenberghe opened an apothecary and medicinal garden adjacent to the hospital. Antwerp’s golden era from 1501 to the 1560s brought prosperity to the city, attracting not only the trade of silks, spices, diamonds, and gems, but also exotic plants from Africa and India that fascinated Coudenberghe. The management of the hospital shifted hands in 1798 to Antwerp’s Board of Almshouses, ensuring the continuation of its healing mission.

The construction of the main entrance and building along Lange Gasthuisstraat, Sint-Jorispoort, and Leopoldstraat took place in 1836, followed by the addition of a new apothecary and its surrounding structures in 1847. And an expansion along the Sint-Jorispoort side in 1856. During the mid-19th century, the botanical garden, once in a state of neglect, was revived under the diligent care of the hospital’s chief surgeon, Claude Louis Sommé, and head pharmacist, Francois Verbert. Designated as a listed space in 1950, the botanical garden remains a cherished sight. In the 1990s, the aging monastery underwent meticulous restoration, converting its first and top floors into hotel rooms, overcoming years of neglect and untidy refurbishments.

Botanical gardens

The botanical gardens surrounding the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp are truly breathtaking. The gardens are home to an array of exotic plants and flowers from all over the world, including many rare species. They are designed to provide a peaceful and enchanting setting for weddings and events. The gardens have several features, such as a pond, a pergola, a rose garden, and a greenhouse that are used as settings for wedding ceremonies and photo shoots. The botanical gardens offer the perfect place for guests to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of this magnificent venue.

Weddings

The Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp provides an amazing backdrop for weddings, with its stunning indoor and outdoor spaces. The venue has a chapel that can accommodate up to 200 guests. The venue has an experienced team of wedding planners who can help couples to design and create their dream wedding. They offer customized wedding packages that can include everything from décor, floral arrangements, entertainment, photography, and catering. The Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is the perfect place to make your dreams of a luxurious wedding come true.

August Antwerp

Green Quarter

Het Groen Kwartier (the Green Quarter) is a pedestrian-only luxury development situated on the grounds of a vast 19th-century former military hospital complex, formerly owned by the Belgian army. Van Hool and De Scheemaecker promptly recognized the potential of this location, which now thrives with an array of new shops, restaurants, and charming cafés. Its proximity to the Zurenborg area, renowned for its magnificent Art Nouveau and fin de siècle-style mansions, further adds to the allure of this vibrant district.

History

The August hotel comprises five buildings, presenting a significant challenge for Van Duysen and his team to seamlessly integrate them while adhering to heritage restrictions. The former private chapel of the nuns will serve as the primary lounge and bar area.

Adjacent to the site, two terraced townhouses with gardens will accommodate various amenities, including a spa with an outdoor swimming pool. The building situated behind the chapel, which previously housed the nuns, will feature the majority of the guestrooms and the kitchen.

Certain floor tile patterns, particularly in the chapel, required restoration. These patterns contribute to an existing aesthetic that informs the chosen style. However, it was still necessary to design a hotel with distinctive features that set it apart from others.

Accommodation, restaurant and spa

Today August is transformed to a luxury accommodation. They offer exquisite dining, a vibrant bar, wellness facilities and beautiful gardens in the dynamic city of Antwerp.

Fascinating heritage accommodations of Antwerp

Antwerp is a city of history, luxury, and authenticity. There’s no better way to immerse oneself than by staying at a heritage accommodation. Each of these hotels has managed to blend the rich history of the buildings with luxury amenities. They offer guests the opportunity to live in grandeur. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a long-term stay. These accommodations will transport you back to an historical era, providing a memorable experience that will be hard to forget.

Monumental highlights in Belgium

Belgium, a captivating country waiting to be explored! Despite its small size, it offers an abundance of fascinating sights. Immerse yourself in the medieval charm of Bruges and Ghent, or discover the birthplace of Rubens in Antwerp. Did you know that Antwerp has 5 monumental churches?

Nature enthusiasts mustn’t miss the breathtaking Ardennes or embark on a day hike at Kalmthoudste Heide, nestled between Antwerp and the Netherlands. If visiting Brussels in the spring, seize the opportunity to explore the enchanting Serres of Laeken. The serres are open to visitors for just 6 weeks each year. And for history buffs, Ypres and the Flanders Fields. They provide a poignant journey through the events of the Second World War. Get ready to experience the allure of Belgium!