Hotel Ter Duinen

From the moment guests walk in the door, they can feel the family atmosphere and generous welcome at Hotel Ter Duinen. Classic architecture in the breakfast room includes a decorative ceiling medallion and tall doorways; there is a modern, artistic ceiling light as well. The vintage wooden chairs and antique fireplace also add to the traditional feel. A bright, glassed-in conservatory lounge is off the lobby and provides comfortable armchairs and lots of natural light. A patio garden includes many flowers and shrubs, but has minimal seating. The common areas are open and include vintage Belgian art pieces as well as soft yellows and grays in the furniture and on the walls. Even though it is a historical building, the exterior is well maintained and charming.

Away from the central city traffic is the Hotel Ter Duinen on the Potterierei canal. In a mostly residential area that’s quiet, this hotel is also walking distance from Grote Markt, Burg, Bruges Belfry, Bruges Town Hall, and dozens of shops and restaurants. Minnewater, Concertgebouw, and ‘t Zand Square are a six- to seven-minute drive from the hotel, but public transportation can also connect passengers to all attractions. Renting a car is only necessary if you plan on leaving the city center to explore the countryside.

Rooms are quiet, minimalist, and stylish, with reclaimed wood desks and cushy vintage chairs in the seating area. Although the design is simple, the room is clean and modern with a mostly neutral palette and pops of color in the pillows, drapes, and art. Original windows add to the historical features of this hotel and some rooms have beautiful wood beams and small balconies with lovely views of the Potterierei Canal. Aqua Line amenities are in the contemporary tile bathrooms, but some bathrooms are tiny and only have tubs or showers, not both. The walk-in showers do have rainfall showerheads though, and there are heated towel racks. No coffee/tea items or minibar are available, but there are decent-sized flat-screen TVs and bright lighting.  

Features at this hotel more closely resemble a bed and breakfast than a full service hotel. Although the Hotel Ter Duinen lacks business and fitness centers, there is a breakfast room that serves a continental-style meal of fruits, juice, meats, cheeses, boiled eggs, breads, and coffee; it receives excellent reviews from past guests. Room service is available and free parking can be found in front of the hotel; however, private parking costs a daily fee. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout as is a rate reduction card for 10 local museums.