The Belgian city of Ghent is a medieval marvel – cobbled streets, gothic spires jutting into the sky from every market square, a walled castle in the centre and merchants’ homes built along meandering canals to rival those of Amsterdam.
Ghent is beautiful to wander around during the day, but it is stunning by night when the unique buildings are spectacularly lit thanks to a coordinated effort of the city.
The place to stay in Ghent is the Sandton Grand Hotel Reylof. The main areas of the hotel are contained in a historic building dating back to the 17th century, with beautifully preserved plaster mouldings, parquet floors and antiques.
The furniture is plush and playful and wouldn’t look out of place in a theatrical stage set. Rooms are more muted than the public spaces – they are modern, comfortable and functional.
Our room overlooked the garden with the alfresco restaurant and bar – an oasis of calm and tranquillity that basked in the sunshine all day. We didn’t eat at the restaurant, but the bar has a funky atmosphere and attracts a lively crowd in the evenings with its live DJs.
The reason for my trip to Ghent was to attend the annual Gent jazz festival. Calling the event a festival doesn’t really do it justice – this is a sophisticated and polished event taking place in one of Ghent’s public parks which is a 15 minute walk from the hotel.
The jazz festival is split into two stages, with constant tones of jazz singers, pianos, saxophones and drums permeating the air. A large central courtyard set up with café style tables and plenty of options to consume Belgian beers, wines, frites and other nibbles.
The event has an intimate atmosphere where you can get close to the stage and really feel part of the performances – a must for Jazz enthusiasts. This year, stars such as Diana Krall, Elvis Costello and Jamie Cullen performed.
Ghent is a great weekend destination, easily accessible, and offers a good alternative to a weekend trip to Paris or Brussels on the Eurostar.
If you would like Bon Vivant’s travel team to book your next stay at the Sandton Grand Hotel Reylof in Ghent, contact us now!
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