Lord of Ghent

The apartment is central to everything and well equipped, and the owner was polite. The church bells didn’t bother us. But there was no air-conditioning, just electric fans, despite the listing saying there was AC. In 30-degree weather it was unbearable. We had to leave the windows open and got bitten badly by mosquitoes, with the dumpster below. When she came to give us the key, she also asked us to vacuum if we could. I’m the guest, so I didn’t think that should be my job. The bathroom is old and needs an upgrade.

The natural stone terrace has breathtaking views across Ghent’s skyline and towers, and the loft itself is beautifully furnished, with home automation, a reading nook, modular living and dining areas, a designer kitchen, and a bathroom with a rain shower. There’s room to sleep six and dine ten. We found the old Metselaarshuis impressive, stylish, and graceful, right in Ghent’s historic centre. This is a remarkable place to stay in the Masons’ Guild Hall, one of Belgium’s historic properties. The mansion once belonged to a wealthy city household and later housed the notorious Masons’ Guild during the Middle Ages. It has since had a hypermodern renovation and is now available as a loft apartment for personal or business stays, with its architectural character retained. Neo-Gothic and Renaissance details sit alongside modern home technology in a striking mix. The location is just a stone’s throw from Korenmarkt and the iconic Graslei, so the lively city centre is easy to explore on foot, including its terraces and restaurants. Inside, the four-poster bed and satin sheets make for a relaxing night, and the BOSE music system sounds great throughout the apartment. A memorable stay, and one I’d happily repeat.

The bells ring pretty loudly, so you may want earplugs. It’s a very clean, upscale apartment, with a sweet spot that’s close to the tram line and central to the main attractions.

The central location and super hosts made this a lovely Christmas stay. At night the whole town was lit up, and you could see the ice rink from the apartment. Waking up to “White Christmas” chiming from the church across the street was emotional. I can see why locals want to keep this place to themselves!