Bruges welcomes first five star hotel

Bruges’ very first five-star deluxe hotel, the Kempinski Hotel Dukes’ Palace, is set to open its historic doors for the first time in March 2008. “We are very much looking forward to welcoming guests in the New Year and are extremely proud of what promises to be an exciting addition to the charming city of Bruges.” said Philippe DeMeyer, General Manager.

Location
Located in a former 15th Century Prinsenhof, the Kempinski Hotel Dukes’ Palace is perfectly located in the old town, within easy walking distance to all the historic sites of Bruges, the main market square and the best shopping areas.

The historic property is a well-known heritage-listed landmark enjoying a prime central location for both business and leisure travellers - there really is no better starting place to explore the quaint cobbled streets and impressive monuments of Bruges.

History
Steeped in history, the former Prinsenhof was built for Duke Philip III (Philip the Good) in 1429 to celebrate his marriage to Isabelle of Portugal in 1430. Originally, the Prinsenhof was seven times the size it is today, and included a chapel, library, swimming-pool, bathhouse, hall for ballgames, a large tower with an open balcony for minstrels and even a zoo! Royalty from all over Europe stayed at the palace and it was used as a venue to impress and entertain.

Over the centuries, the Prinsenhof was passed down through members of the European nobility, until, in 1880, the French nuns of the community (“Dames de la Retraite du Sacré-Coeur”) acquired the property. They renovated the existing structure and built an extension to house a convent, a spiritual retreat and an orphanage.

Finally, more than one hundred years later, the Prinsenhof was bought by its present owners who lovingly refurbished it to create the Kempinski Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges. Today, after thorough renovation works, the Prinsenhof has been restored to its former glory.

This new hotel looks set to be a magnificent enhancement to this unique UNESCO World Heritage City and still boasts stunning 15th Century listed architecture and interiors.

Accommodation
Though today the hotel is smaller than in 1429, it still contains many of its beautiful original features including one of the ballrooms and the chapel with original stained glass windows and frescoes. The comprehensive work carried out on the palace goes much further than the renovation of its impressive architecture – original 15th Century paintings and ornaments have been lovingly restored to reclaim their place in the heritage-listed rooms and suites.

There will be a total of 93 rooms and suites, including 22 palatial Suites, Junior Suites and Historic Suites. The tastefully decorated rooms are equipped with the latest technology such as flat screen TVs and high speed internet whilst retaining charm and character.

Guests staying in one of the historic listed suites will be truly transported back in time – the Triplex suite features a terrace built into the property’s tower for a magnificently romantic rooftop view, and the Maria of Burgundy Suite houses a unique collection of 15th Century paintings.

Hotel Facilities
The Dukes’ Palace will feature a 20 metre indoor swimming pool, a boutique spa with 3 treatment rooms offering a variety of massage and facials, a hammam and sauna, fully-equipped fitness room with treadmill, bikes and cardiovascular equipment, and 2,500 square metres of manicured gardens – amazing for a city centre property!

The gourmet restaurant will serve fresh, innovative Belgian specialities as well as international dishes and will be led by Koenraad Steenkiste, an experienced chef who has worked for many years with celebrated three Michelin starred-chefs Pierre Wynants, of Comme Chez Soi in Brussels, and Geert Van Hecke of De Karmeliet in Bruges.

The hotel bar will boast the best variety of wines and beers to be found in Bruges, including the traditional “Masters” beer. There will also be a lounge with a roaring open fireplace for cosy winter evenings and a sunny outdoor terrace for al fresco summer drinks and dining.

For couples wanting a romantic weekend, the historic listed chapel at the hotel can be used for marriage blessings as well as full wedding ceremonies.

Business
For those wishing to conduct business in Bruges, the Dukes’ Palace offers an exclusive setting for board meetings, with a choice of two meeting rooms of 38 square metres, a boardroom for up to ten people and the impressive grand ballroom for larger functions. A fully equipped business centre offers all the services required for a successful conference, and a dedicated Meetings Concierge is on hand to ensure the day run smoothly.

Activities
Described as “Venice of the North”, Bruges is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Step back in time and stroll through winding cobbled streets to discover hidden sights and a rich architectural history. The wealth of museums, churches and listed buildings are testament to Bruges’ striking historical importance. Take a boat ride along the city’s romantic canals and try Belgium chips with the local fish or why not take in a concert at the city’s new Concert Hall which is nearby.

Special soft opening rates for March 2008 at the Kempinski Hotel Dukes’ Palace start from €185 for a Standard Room on a bed and breakfast basis. For reservations, visit Kempinski-bruges.com.