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. 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.

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 are 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.

Health and recreation facilities include a 20 metre indoor swimming pool, a boutique spa with 3 treatment rooms offering a variety of massages 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 gardens will host artwork available to guests to purchase from artists each month – currently the works of Laurence Jenkell, Quirin Mayer and Stephanie Le Roux are on display.

The gourmet restaurant serves innovative Belgian specialities as well as international dishes and is 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 boasts the best variety of wines and beers to be found in Bruges, including the traditional “Masters” beer. There is also a lounge with a roaring open fireplace for cosy winter evenings and a sunny outdoor terrace for al fresco summer drinks and dining.