Martin's Klooster ★★★★

I know little about Belgium and yet, having visited and been enthralled by Brussels, my curiosity has been piqued and I want to taste more of this delicious country. Choosing to have Brussels within my reach for a little day trip, I am heading for the vibrant and historical university town of Leuven in the Flemish region. I arrive and can already begin to draw parallels with the great international capital just a few miles away. It has that same sparkly spirit, set in incredibly beautiful and majestic surroundings of grand buildings, castles, churches and cathedrals that defy the vast damage done to it in both World Wars. I can easily imagine why it has no less than two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and am thrilled to be staying right in the heart of the enchanting old town with its cobbled streets and gorgeous architecture.

After taking the train I have walked, bags and all, to the hotel in a matter of minutes. Aside from the cobble stones being somewhat bumpy on the wheels of my suitcase, it's quick and easy. As I approach I take in the impressive façade and am glad to see there are no signs of a dark and dingy establishment. On the contrary the wide arches open out onto a courtyard, red brickwork, tall windows and a breezy extension that gracefully continues the elegant and airy theme in a more modern fashion. Inside the contemporary feel continues in a wide, airy space filled with light and warmth, with a fire merrily crackling away. Just like Leuven itself, the hotel seamlessly combines old and new, allowing all the charm of its past to leave its mark, whilst ensuring the bright comfort of the present sets the tone.

My bedroom is in keeping with this effortless style. I admire my surroundings from the huge bed, light, fluffy and dangerously delightful to lie on. I can understand why it is called the 'Cosy Plus Room, with its chic décor accented with dark woods, dashing reds and taffeta curtains, while an abundance of silvery light pours in through the large windows. The sense of intimacy and comfort here is irresistable; so much so that I almost dived in for a nap then and there.

I force myself out of my room and make my way to the hotel bar for a post-travel pause of snacks and refreshment. What I find is a homely yet sophisticated space once. Once again I am met with those signature lofty windows, along with wooden beams and a fireplace surrounded by stylish armchairs. I settle down comfortably and gaze out of the window with my pen and paper, watching the glowing green and shimmering winter light beyond as I muse over the hotel's history. It seems somewhat odd to me to think that this was once built to house the secretary of Charles V back in the early 16th century. The antique poise is prevalent still, and yet the design and ambiance is so fresh and light, so present-day, that it is hard to imagine any ghosts wandering these halls. If indeed they did I would perfectly understand it, however. For why haunt a dank castle when you can be somewhere as lovely and luxurious as this? I, at least, am certainly happy to be haunting the hotel Martin's Klooster for a while and I can highly recommend it to anyone!