Huis Alfons

We stayed in the spacious top room at #huisalfons, with a welcoming double bed and loads of pillows that made it tempting to stay put and forget the city was outside. Breakfast was ready when it suited us, and having it calmly in one of the beautiful rooms was a pleasure. It’s a great place in the heart of #Mechelen, close to everything but peaceful at night. The website has plenty of tips for eating out. While you’re in Mechelen, stop by the tiny Modern Art gallery, that really is its name, and hear the owner’s stories.

Be in the main square in the evening and listen to the church bells playing music. Mechelen is a beautiful, quiet city with lovely people who seem not to worry about things that don’t matter to them. There’s beautiful architecture and lots of Orthodox and Catholic churches, as well as fast-food places and a lecture room where you can relax alone or with company. The city is simply magical, a must-visit.

The host is charming and helpful, and can point you toward some lovely places to eat. This cosy B&B has three rooms looking out over medieval houses, with a chic 60s-style interior. It’s close to the centre and makes a good base for a weekend exploring the city. Breakfast is served in the room with plenty to choose from, and there’s public parking about a two-minute walk away.

We were six people and had all three rooms, so there was plenty of space for us. The kitchen had everything we needed, and it was nice to find coffee ready and some local beers in the fridge. What a hidden gem right in the middle of Mechelen. I’d go back in a heartbeat.