NH Gent Belfort

A number of blue flags bearing the NH Hotels logo and planters greet guests as they arrive at the hotel. Inside, the lobby is large and open, with clean-lined red- and cream-colored sofas and chairs for seating. Reception is off to the side behind a large, curved desk. The atmosphere is hip, with bright colors and planters with fresh orchids. In the red-carpeted hallway leading to the meeting rooms are rows of canvas photographs available for sale. Event space includes the unique Medieval Vaulted Cellar with stone walls, a chic bar area, comfy sofas, and candlelight for added ambience. The breakfast space is light-filled and modern with clean lines and hanging exposed light bulb fixtures. A city-scene mural covers one wall. The hotel is suitable for couples, families, and businesspeople. 

The hotel is located in the heart of Ghent's beautiful old town. It looks directly onto the historic town hall building, which is a stunning piece of intricate architecture. The busy street gets considerable foot traffic during the day, as the location is perfect for tourists visiting the city, as well as business travelers. It is near a number of shops, restaurants, and attractions, less than a 10-minute walk to St. Nicholas Church, Het Design Museum, St. Bavo's Cathedral, the old belfry, St. Michael's Bridge, the Castle of the Counts, and the Korenmarket terrace with shops and eateries. The area also is served well by public transport, with tram stops within a few hundred meters and a train station about 15 minutes away. The hotel is easily accessible by car, and parking is available on-site for a fee.

There are 174 rooms, with a choice of Standard, Standard New Style, Superior, Suite with View, and Junior Suite. Rooms are split between fresh and new and old and tired as the hotel is slowly renovating. As of mid-2015, 57 rooms have been updated to the Standard New Style with new hardwood floors, updated furnishings, accents of bright lime green, and new mattresses. Old-style rooms show signs of wear with sagging upholstery and dated furnishings, fabrics, and wall coverings. In both, bed coverings and pillows are stark-white, typical in Ghent, but here the total lack of color makes it look like something is missing. And even some New Style Standard rooms could use a good scrubbing to remove mildew in bathrooms. Superior rooms have a nice standalone tub and separate shower. Superior rooms and Suites with views come with robes and slippers, and Suites add a newspaper. All rooms are air-conditioned and have free Wi-Fi, tea- and coffeemakers, hairdryers, minibars, and alarm clocks. Connecting rooms are available, a plus for families and groups. 

Wi-Fi is free in rooms and throughout the property. Restaurant Van Artevelde serves international cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. A bountiful breakfast buffet is served daily, and an early-bird breakfast also is available, though both options cost extra. The cozy bar off reception offers a variety of Belgian beers and has a patio. Red chairs and bar stools add a touch of pizzazz to the setting. Room service is available around-the-clock. Meeting space is extensive, and three of the 10 meeting rooms have natural light. The largest room holds up to 400 for meetings. A Medieval Vaulted Cellar with a bar is a unique space for private events. There is a gym with a sauna, and there is underground parking on-site. Pets are not allowed, nor is smoking.