Hotel Ter Brughe

The Hotel Ter Brughe occupies a building originally built as as a warehouse for goods transported up the canal, parts of which dates back to 1470. Even from the outside, the hotel looks like something from another time, with its medieval red-brick facade, steep quintessentially Bruges roofs, and lead mullion windows. Inside, evidence of the building's 15th-century origins can be seen throughout, from vaulted stone ceilings to heavy wooden beams, and the general decor sticks firmly to Old World styling. While the sense of history is palpable, little has been done to integrate modern elements or update the period look, resulting in some of the hotel interiors feeling dated in addition to their intentionally medieval style. The breakfast room continues the medieval look, with its stone arches and canal views, but the lobby bar feels more modern, with large windows and small plants. A protected heritage property, the hotel has no elevator, so reaching rooms on the top floor means climbing three flights of stairs.

The Hotel Ter Brughe is situated on an historic cobbled street, overlooking one of Bruges's oldest canals in the historic center of the city. The street is mainly residential and just far enough from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist area and main square to be relaxed and quiet -- though those attractions are still less than a 10-minute walk away. In the surrounding area, there are small cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, while all the main tourist attractions are within walking distance. The hotel's position north of the city center, however, means that the main train station isn't walkable; however, buses run within a couple minutes' walk of the hotel, and it's about a 10-minute cab ride. 

The hotel's 46 rooms are simply styled with antique or period-style furnishings, period etchings, and a traditional or old-fashioned feel, depending on your taste. Plenty of the building's original elements are on display in the rooms, such as the top-floor rooms' medieval wooden beam ceilings. Lack of recent updating, however, does mean the atmosphere feels a little drab in some cases, and the Budget and Standard categories are distinctly second-rate in comparison to the higher categories. Wi-Fi is free of charge and flat-screen TVs come as standard, though minibars are only stocked on request. Some bathrooms feel somewhat dated too and, due to the nature of the building, showers cannot be taken standing up -- in other words, all bathrooms have only a bathtub, with a shower handle option. Although there are a few rooms on the ground floor, the lack of elevator means most guests will have to climb up to three flights of stairs. Top-floor rooms have rooftop views, and some rooms overlook the canal. Lower-floor rooms might hear noise from the room above them.

A buffet breakfast is served in the hotel's atmospheric vaulted cellar which overlooks the canal and is the oldest part of the building -- breakfast is included in the rate and can also be served in-room for a fee. A first-floor terrace makes a pleasant place to relax on a sunny day, while a small bar and lounge serves a good selection of Belgian beers. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and there's a computer in the lobby for guests' use. Those arriving with their own car also have access to private parking, though the daily fee is quite steep. Pets are welcome for a fee.