Hotel De Ridder

Really friendly people, and the maid service was helpful too. The place was clean, safe, and comfortable.

The staff were really nice.

The courtyard works as a terrace, or a wine bar when the weather’s good, and drink prices are more than reasonable. De Ridder is right in the city center, so parking can be tricky, as it is in any city. The building is gorgeous, and that alone makes breakfast there worth it. Breakfast was classic, with plenty of choice and the egg served in an original way. Fresh rolls instead of bake-at-home ones would be a nice improvement, and pistolets were the one thing missing.

We arrived to check in at 4 p.m., but nobody was there. We rang the bell at 6:15 a.m. and got no answer, then called and tried the mobile number listed on their website. Still nothing. After ringing again, someone finally answered and said a person would be there in five minutes. We waited in the rain until a taxi brought the key. We got inside, asked a few quick questions, and went up to the room. For breakfast, they sent us to the bakery around the corner. The people there were surprised we expected breakfast. Apparently the B&B didn’t offer it, and at that price I didn’t want to stay in an old, worn-out bakery. I wanted a B&B. The building was empty, with no staff or owners around. The room had no promised fireplace, the shutters wouldn’t open to let in outside light, and the minibar wasn’t switched on until we arrived. We went out, then slept there. No one was present for checkout either. We called, got no answer, and left the key. Five hours later they called to ask if we’d called. I said we weren’t happy, but the person on the phone couldn’t help. Very disappointing. I only write a review when I find a place inferior. The rooms were old and cheaply renovated, there was no service, and this was our second visit but will be our last. I wouldn’t recommend it. It’s not worthy of being called a B&B or hotel.