De Sterre B&B: charm and tranquility within the secret garden

By admin on December 18, 2011 in Travel Feature

Bruges is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in not only Belgium but in the whole of Western Europe. It is also one of the prime destinations for romantic getaways and for friends that like to expirement tasting various Flemish beers, and while Paris has long held the title of Europe’s most romantic city, there are many who think that Bruges is a very comparable alternative. Better beers in Bruges for sure though, no arguments there!

While there are many luxury and high priced hotels in Bruges, if you are looking for somewhere unique for an extra special break full of charm and history, look no further than De Sterre B&B. The accommodation is actually a traditional summerhouse set in a beautiful secret brick walled garden complete with pond and orchard featuring figs, apples and pears. It affords such privacy and peace and quiet that it is hard to believe that it’s in the centre of a bustling city and just a short walk down the scenic canal from the historic market square.

The summerhouse sits in the grounds of a 16^th century home and was constructed in 1789. It gives its occupants complete privacy and offers everything you could need to add that certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ to your break. Completely self contained, this haven of tranquillity consists of a traditionally decorated bedroom with a cosy bed, a small bathroom with a bathtub and shower, a sitting room with tea and coffee making equipment and a private entrance through a gate in the garden wall. We had a little difficutly with the shower though as we could not seem to find a holder for the shower head, but we managed somehow without too much trouble.

The entire interior is decorated tastefully and in a very romantic vintage style that is perfectly in keeping with the exterior of the building which exudes romance and charm. The only modern appliance here is a television set and the enormous windows give an unprecedented view out over the wild gardens that have been left to grow as nature intended, in keeping with the traditional character off the summerhouse. The slippers and bathrobes were also a very nice touch to make you feel at home, along with the complimentary local chocolate for that extra treat.

You need never to enter the main house and even breakfast is kindly brought out to you by Francine in the mornings, you just have to say what time. This consists of fresh bread rolls, fruit, cheeses, fresh juice, jams and yoghurt, and when the weather permits can be served al fresco under the giant oak tree. We also had some delicious danish pastries from a local bakery which came highly recommended called Van Mullem, on Vlamingstraat 54, on the market square opposite the old theater. You can request your breakfast at any time you want, further adding to the complete freedom of your break. Francine has a wealth of knowledge regarding all things Bruges and had some great tips regarding restaurants and traditional Flemish pubs to find unique beers that you won’t find anywhere else.

This hidden gem in the heart of the city has only been open for a few years and has very quickly built itself a reputation that many other places in the city would strongly fight for. Both the main house and the summerhouse are listed buildings and this just serves to add to its charm even more when you see the original features that still exist. The drinking of alcohol is permitted within the summerhouse, allowing you to sample great local brews in the comfort of the house next to a lovely traditional fire, ideal on a cold winter’s night.

It isn’t very often these days that you can come back from a short break and boast that you have stayed in somewhere completely unique, but you honestly can when describing De Sterre B&B. If you are looking at taking a trip over to Bruges, whether as a couple or with a friend, this is a great place where you will get freedom combined with charm, total peace and tranquillity.

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