Hidden behind ancient walls within Antwerp’s Botanic Gardens, a 13th century monastery begins its new chapter as the city’s first world-class hotel. This spring sees Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp mark the completion of its sensitive eight-year restoration with 108 rooms and suites now carved out of five historic buildings to create a tranquil refuge for leisure and business travellers alike.
The only hotel in Belgium to boast four Michelin Stars on site, guests can dine at 2 Michelin-star Hertog Jan, 1 Michelin-Star Fine Fleur or 1 Michelin-Star Het Gebaar. They can also experience a stylish bar, a 1,000sqm state-of-the art spa, a 15th-century chapel, 18 conference rooms, a screening theatre and The Unprecedented – one of the globe’s most exclusive invitation-only whisky investment clubs – all set in five acres of leafy grounds.
Through artfully combining tradition with modern craftsmanship, the architect and design team made sure to respect the monastery’s former life, deftly connecting original elements with the new. From the centuries-old wooden beams and original brickwork to the modern art and contemporary glass conservatories, a harmonious balance imbues the hotel. Where possible, the original function of rooms has been preserved – the two monastery kitchens now serve as elegantly tiled dining rooms, and the monastery’s 19th-century pharmacy has been brought back into use as a modern-day apothecary. Each room and suite has been individually designed and filled with warm colours, carefully curated antiques, natural textures and artwork by celebrated local artists.
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is ideally placed for visitors to explore this most fascinating of cities, in which cobblestone streets and Renaissance architecture co-exist alongside youthful energy and a burgeoning food-and-drink scene. Known as the ‘City of Diamonds’, Belgium’s ‘second’ capital is home to over 1,500 restaurants, including 17 Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class galleries and museums which see a revolving calendar of exciting pop-ups and collaborations.
For further details please contact one of our Travel Managers on 0203 535 9290.
