Martin's Patershof
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Hotel Details
Location
Mechelen
Belgium, Europe
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Expert Review: Martin's Patershof
Martin's Patershof in Mechelen, Belgium, stands out as a unique and memorable 4-star hotel, meticulously converted from a former neo-Gothic church. It has been recognized as a Michelin Key Selected property, a testament to its exceptional quality and experience. Guests consistently praise its stunning architecture, prime location, and high standards of service.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
The general consensus for Martin's Patershof is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing their stays as "gorgeous," "amazing," "fantastic," and "excellent". Review platforms show high ratings, such as an 8.4/10 ("Very good") based on over 2,100 reviews on Booking.com, and an 8.6/10 on Trip.com from over a hundred reviews. The unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort creates a serene and distinctive atmosphere.
2. Key Highlights
The most significant highlight of Martin's Patershof is its unparalleled architectural design, as it's set within a deconsecrated church. The vaulted ceilings, ribbed columns, and beautiful stained-glass windows provide a breathtaking backdrop for a hotel stay. Beyond the design, guests consistently commend the hotel's:
- Location: Situated in the heart of historical Mechelen, offering easy access to attractions and the city center.
- Comfort: Especially noted for comfortable beds.
- Ambiance: The atmospheric setting, particularly the breakfast room in the former altar, is a key draw.
- Service: Friendly, welcoming, and helpful staff receive frequent praise.
3. Room Quality
Martin's Patershof offers 79 unique rooms, available in various categories such as "Cosy, Charming, Great, Exceptional, and Best of Home". Many rooms retain original church features like stained-glass windows, creating a distinctive ambiance. Guests describe the rooms as comfortable and often spacious. The "Best Of Home" suite, located above the church altar, is highlighted as a masterpiece. In-room amenities typically include air conditioning, a small fridge, private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, wardrobes/closets, and coffee/tea makers. Some rooms also feature jetted tubs, referred to as "bubble baths". While decor can be sober and dark, it often serves to highlight the bright colors of the stained glass. However, some bathrooms are noted to be compact or small, and not all rooms have walk-in showers.
4. Dining Experience
The hotel does not feature a full-service restaurant for lunch or dinner, but it does offer a breakfast buffet. This breakfast is served in the impressive and beautifully renovated choir of the old church, often accompanied by a glass of cava, and is consistently described as "amazing and rich". The setting for breakfast is a significant part of the experience, often referred to as an "absolute gem". Martin's Bar, located near the lobby, provides a cozy setting for drinks, offering a wide selection of Belgian beers, cocktails, and whiskies.
5. Service & Staff
Guest feedback on the service and staff is overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers frequently highlight the staff's welcoming, friendly, and helpful demeanor. Many consider the staff to be consistently responsive and among the best they have encountered. Check-in and check-out processes are generally reported as fast and efficient.
6. Location & Accessibility
Martin's Patershof boasts an excellent and very convenient location in the heart of historical Mechelen. It's described as an ideal starting point for exploring the city's sights, including the Grote Markt, the Beguinage, and the picturesque riverbanks of the Dyle. Several attractions like the Lamot Congress and heritage center, Sinte Mettetuin, and Bootjes In Mechelen are within a short walking distance.
For transport, Mechelen Central Railway Station is approximately 1.28 km (0.6 miles) away, providing convenient train connections to Brussels and Antwerp, both reachable within about 30 minutes. The hotel offers underground parking for a fee (approximately EUR 30 per night), though guests should be aware that it's not directly linked to the hotel and the access ramp can be steep and challenging for some. It's also important to note that the property does not have elevators.
7. Value & Pricing
As a 4-star hotel, Martin's Patershof generally offers good value for its quality service and unique experience. Room prices can vary depending on dates and factors, with starting rates reported around US$107 or $118.96. While the unique setting and comfortable accommodations are highly valued, some guests find the buffet breakfast, priced at approximately EUR 25 per person, to be on the expensive side if not included in their room rate. One reviewer noted that while the accommodation is fine, the prices charged might be considered "ridiculous" by some.
8. Common Complaints
Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some recurring points of criticism or areas for improvement have been noted by guests:
- No Full Restaurant: The absence of a full-service restaurant for lunch or dinner is a common observation, with only a bar and breakfast service available.
- Breakfast Cost: While the breakfast is highly praised, its additional cost of around EUR 25 per person is sometimes seen as expensive.
- Bathroom Size & Facilities: Some bathrooms are described as compact or small, and a preference for walk-in showers over bath/shower combinations has been expressed.
- Lack of Elevators: The hotel does not have elevators, which could be a concern for some guests, especially those with mobility issues or heavy luggage.
- Parking Challenges: The underground parking, while available for a fee, is not directly connected to the hotel and has been described as a bit steep and intimidating to navigate.
- Maintenance: A few guests have mentioned that some areas could benefit from a fresh coat of paint or show signs of aging, and some rooms might be insufficiently lit. A rare complaint also noted an "unpleasant smell" in a premium room and perceived unenthusiastic staff, though this contradicts the majority of reviews.
Sources
Points to Consider
- •Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some recurring points of criticism or areas for improvement have been noted by guests:
- •Lack of Elevators:** The hotel does not have elevators, which could be a concern for some guests, especially those with mobility issues or heavy luggage.
