4 Best Hotels in Vlaamse Ardennen, Ghent and the Leie

If you're walking up from the station into town, you can't miss Grupello; it lingers elegantly on the crossroads like a friendly stranger. Its bustling brasserie is popular with locals and visitors alike. The building is also a work of art. Art Deco stained glass lightens the breakfast room and restaurant, while rooms are likeably simple, with little in the way of fuss. Like most places in town, it caters well to cyclists—you'll even find a puncture repair kit on hand.

This 18th-century manor house makes charming use of its setting, with an elegantly finished interior and delightful terrace and garden. Rooms are decked in light-wood floors with a crisp grey-and-white design that gives the overall impression of simple, chic elegance. Brunch, breakfast, high tea, dinner can all be arranged. 

This small B&B with just three guests rooms and a studio is instantly recognizable from the street thanks to its bright, colorful exterior; things are more subtly finished on the inside, while the studio comes with a small balcony and modern kitchen. The owners are happy to help arrange a number of day trips. There's even storage for bikes; handy given what a cycling mecca this is.

A tidy, elegant boutique stay in the center of the city. There's little that makes Leopold Hotel spectacular, but all the little things add up: clean, simple rooms, storage space for bicycles, free parking at the front, bountiful breakfasts, a bar with a likeable terrace. The overall orderliness and efficiency mean it's hard to find any fault, which is an achievement in itself.