In the heart of Antwerp, nestled in tiny Oude Stad, where narrow, winding pedestrian-only streets form little puzzles of old cobble stones, heavy curtains drift behind tall windows in a stark white building that would otherwise have blended in with the other townhouses. It would only take a small distraction to miss it completely. But what a shame it would be if you simply walked by.
The 17th century neo-Rococo mansion is not big—only three stories high—but its understated exterior is the reason those familiar with boutique hotels will breathe a sigh of relief. It is, without a doubt, elegant, a trait often lost in favor of contrived charm or fabricated quaintness. Rather than attempting to mimic its original architecture in the interior spaces, Hotel ‘t Sandt leans toward the contemporary, with 29 completely unique suites. While the lodgings have their own quirks and configurations, all are modern with beamed ceilings and richly furnished. Plus, they are spacious yet romantic.
A secluded Italian courtyard makes for a quiet spot in the mornings, where a complimentary breakfast buffet awaits guests and the summer terrace offers a view of the towering Cathedral. Hotel ‘t Sandt is equipped with four multifunctional meeting rooms for up to 150 people along with catering facilities for private parties.
In the surrounding neighborhood of Oude Stad are one of a kind design stores, numerous outdoor restaurants, and marketplace squares flanked by Renaissance architecture. It is Antwerp’s heart of hearts, echoing the Belgian Golden Age as well as a period of 19th century restoration. Today, Antwerp is home to a burgeoning fashion design community as well as a busy cruise ship port. Yet Hotel ‘t Sandt remains as a steadfast reminder of elegance and comfort.
Hotel ‘t Sandt
Zand 13-19
Antwerp 2000, Belgium
+32 (0)3 232 93 90
www.hotel-sandt.be