Hotel Harmony ★★★★

Passing through the narrow medieval streets of Patersenhol, the oldest neighborhood in Ghent, you are given a taste of both the city’s history and its modern ambition. In amongst the old architecture you will find a fusion of multicultural restaurants, as well as mixture of trendy taverns.

Arriving at the 1859 mansion of the Hotel Harmony ****, I was delighted by its beautiful garden and taken aback by the modern elegance of the Junior Suite which comes equipped with a four poster bed, fireplace and bathroom with a uniquely designed bathtub.

Having dropped my bags, I thought what better way to introduce myself to the hotel and its atmosphere, than to sample the free tapas which are served in the Lounge bar each evening? You can whet your whistle with a choice of prestigious wines or a rich bean coffee to really appreciate the social atmosphere.

After sleeping tight all night, a calm start to the day was a ride on one of the tour operated canal cruises, but not before filling up with the large choice of foods from healthy fruit and juice to European cheeses and the naughty-but-nice pastries at the breakfast buffet.

On the canal I was truly able relax, while also take in the city sights. The cruise takes you from the Grasburg Bridge and on a good day takes you along Ketelvaart, Francois Llaurentplein and comes up in front of the Duivelsteen Castle-House.

If after cruising the waterways you find that you are a little peckish, then why not try the grey shrimps in lobster coulis, blended with cod at the Bord’eau Brasserie? Set in an original fish market, the brasserie features a terrace, which looks over the boats that slide by.

Next stop for me was to see the fantastic Gravensteen 12th century castle. Built in the traditional style with a moat and turrets, the magnificent fortress showcases paraphernalia such as torture equipment, the infamous guillotine and armor. After watching the historical movie at the Gravensteen, an afternoon bite to eat and a pot of tea can be found nearby in the homely and rustic Brooderie bakery and café (Jan Breydelstraat).

Just in time for sunset, I climbed to the top of the UNESCO belfry tower, which holds the Belfort bells. The views and the weathervane dragon that lays in wait at the top are indeed a sight to behold.

The hotel may not have its own restaurant, but there are plenty of excellent options near by. If you fancy a taste of home, book a table at the House of Eliott restaurant (Jan Breydelstraat 36) for seafood delights within a 19th century London setting, and decorated with old photos and mannequins. After a day’s sightseeing and eating, you may want to head back to the hotel for a cocktail in the cosy Lounge to finish the night in style.