B&B The Verhaegen

B&B The Verhaegen: An Exquisite Michelin Key Selected Retreat in Ghent

B&B The Verhaegen in Ghent stands out as an exceptional, highly-rated property, consistently praised for its unique blend of historical grandeur and sophisticated modern design. As a Michelin Key Selected establishment, it offers a luxurious and intimate experience, often described by guests as feeling like a stay in a beautifully curated private home.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for B&B The Verhaegen is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently using words like "unforgettable," "stunning," "exceptional," and "perfect" to describe their stays. It boasts an "Exceptional" rating based on numerous reviews, with a company review score of 9.8 based on 249 reviews from one property, and a 9.6 based on 52 reviews on another platform. Many express a strong desire to return, highlighting the unique charm and high quality of the establishment.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud the B&B's stunning design, which seamlessly combines period restoration with bold contemporary elements. The beautiful courtyard garden offers a peaceful oasis. The personalized and attentive service from the owners, Jan and Marc, is a recurring highlight, making guests feel like cherished friends. The property's historical significance and carefully preserved authentic details also contribute to its unique appeal.

3. Room Quality

The four guest rooms and several suites are individually decorated, each possessing its own style and character. They blend original architecture, antique furnishings, and modern accents, featuring elements like crystal chandeliers, sumptuous fabrics, original art, and marble fireplaces. Rooms are described as airy, luxurious, and comfortable, with high ceilings and expansive dimensions. Guests specifically mention comfortable beds with soft sheets, pillow-top mattresses, Egyptian cotton sheets, and relaxing bathtubs in indulgent bathrooms, often featuring twin basins, floor-to-ceiling mirrors, and high-end fittings. Amenities include flat-screen digital TVs, Roberts radios, minibars stocked with sodas, wine, and champagne, and bathrobes. Some suites, like the Atelier d'Arthur, offer kitchens for self-catering, complete with a fridge, oven, and dishwasher.

4. Dining Experience

The breakfast at B&B The Verhaegen is consistently described as a standout experience, with some guests calling it "one of the best experiences you will have visiting Ghent." Served in the elegant dining room amidst Rococo oils by P.N. van Reysschoot or, weather permitting, in the charming French garden, it is often a ceremonial affair. It typically includes perfectly cooked eggs, fresh bread, flaky French pastries, and freshly squeezed orange juice, with dietary requirements catered for upon request. While some sources indicate breakfast is not always included in the room rate and incurs an extra cost (around EUR 20 per person per day), guests generally consider it well worth it. In-room champagne service is also available with breakfast. The B&B emphasizes locally-sourced and organic food options, including vegetarian choices. There is no full restaurant on-site, with only breakfast being served.

5. Service & Staff

The service and hospitality provided by the owners, Jan and Marc, receive glowing reviews. Guests consistently highlight their attentiveness, welcoming nature, and meticulous attention to detail. They are praised for treating guests like family or old friends, offering excellent recommendations for local attractions and restaurants, and assisting with special arrangements like private guides. Handwritten notes upon check-in and check-out add a personal touch.

6. Location & Accessibility

B&B The Verhaegen is ideally situated in the heart of historical Ghent, specifically in a residential area next to the "Quartier Latin." It is described as being in the historic center, just off the old port and only a few steps from the canals and the historic old town. This central location allows for easy walking access to major attractions like St. Michael's Bridge, St. Nicholas' Gothic Church, restaurants, shops, and lively riverside bars. While generally quiet, it offers excellent accessibility to the city orbital for those traveling by car. Public transport options are also readily available, with Ghent Sint-Pieters station a 15-minute taxi ride away. Brussels International Airport is the nearest, about 50km away, with taxi services available. On-site covered parking is available for an additional fee (around EUR 30 per night), though spaces may be limited, and driving in Ghent is not always recommended. It is important to note that the 18th-century mansion does not have a lift, so upper floors are accessible by stairs only, and staff assist with luggage.

7. Value & Pricing

While considered "quite expensive" compared to simpler B&Bs, guests overwhelmingly agree that the unique experience and high quality of B&B The Verhaegen make it "absolutely worth it for special occasions." Room prices can range, with recent bookings found for around $337. Additional costs include city tax (around EUR 4.17 per person per night for adults), breakfast if not included in the room rate, and parking.

8. Common Complaints

Recurring "complaints" or points to be aware of are few and generally minor:

• No lift: As an 18th-century monument, the property does not have an elevator, meaning upper floors are only accessible by stairs. Staff are available to assist with luggage.
• Check-in hours: There are specific check-in times (typically 1 PM to 9 PM), and late arrivals are generally not possible.
• Breakfast cost: Breakfast is often an additional charge and not included in the room rate.
• Quiet atmosphere: While appreciated by many, the B&B enforces quiet hours from 9 PM to 10 AM and does not have a night bar, which might not suit those looking for a lively evening atmosphere on-site.
• Pet policy: Pets are not allowed.

Sources

1. booking.com
2. hotels.com
3. theverhaegen.com
4. thehotelguru.com
5. michelin.com
6. greatsmallhotels.com
7. i-escape.com
8. michelin.com
9. hotels-gent.net
10. booking.com
11. kayak.com