Royal Hainaut Spa & Resort Hotel ★★★★

I was remarkably enthralled by the history of the Royal Hainaut Spa & Resort Hotel, which marks three centuries in Valenciennes. The building, having existed since Louis XV is a masterpiece, built around three vast square courtyards. Keeping the ‘palace hospital’ architecture intact, the hotel pays homage to its past, its bricks walls, blue stone bay window frames and canvas like paintings bringing the past into the present.

All rooms are decorated in a chic baroque style, chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, a stylish blend of rich creams, browns and black, leaving a polished finish. My bathroom was also very elegant, my cosy bathroom hung on the wall, and all necessary amenities were neatly laid out by the sink. My Duplex Suite was harmonious, with a high mansard ceiling, soft couch you could almost sink into and superb views of the Cour d’honneur.

For dinner, my 3-course meal at Brasserie La Galerie was only delicious, as was the stunning refinement and finesse of La Storia, which served incredible Italian specialities, under majestic, high ceilings, with large portraits of prima donnas painted on the walls. The regal ambiance, the pendant chandeliers and blue stone pillars make it a unique dining setting.

The spa was deeply relaxing, and after a full body massage, a warm cup of herbal tea is just what is needed. I also took full advantage of the sauna and steam room, and swam lengthy lanes in the pool, under the vaulted ceiling, held up by huge stone pillars. After a refreshing dip, I’d lay on a white lounger, propped by the pool and relax under the lantern light. I was a new person when it was time to go, after such a luxurious stay in a prestigious and historically rich location.