Flanders, the Flemish region of Belgium, is world renowned for its cycling – especially on its iconic cobbled lanes. Home to many beautiful routes and its own annual race on the UCI World Tour, Flanders has become a must-visit destination for travellers on two wheels.
The region is also home to the Flandrien Hotel, which is described by the Daily Mail as the “ultimate place to stay for cyclists”, and a place which “pays homage” to “pedal power”. This boutique cycling-themed hotel in Brakel, Flemish Ardennes, has accommodation for up to 40 guests, plus a bike collection regarded as one of the “best in the world”, according to Cyclist magazine.
Not just any cycling hotel…
The Flandrien Hotel describes itself as a “home away from home” for cyclists and a place where guests can “connect with other inspired people”. As much a cycling retreat as it is a hotel, it also hosts an annual Women’s Cycling Summit, team building events, a residential leadership program course and “Think Weeks” throughout the year.
Rooms and clubhouse
Guests can book an overnight stay in various room types – including the “Leberg” loft apartment which accommodates up to eight people. Other room types include the “Bosberg” deluxe triple room, the “Oude Kwaremont” deluxe twin room, and the superior and standard twin rooms.
In the clubhouse area of the hotel visitors can eat breakfast daily or enjoy a dinner buffet every Friday. Here you’ll also find the bar and big screens to watch cycling events.
As a retreat geared for cyclists the Flandrien has many facilities needed for a two-wheel adventure. There’s bike rental and sales, a retail area, bike storage plus a Technogym Fitness Centre.
Art gallery and bicycle museum
The hotel’s own gallery features Pop-Art works created by Belgian artist John Mettepenningen, who is known as “Andy Warhol of cycling”, while the bicycle museum is where visitors can see the hotel’s fine bike collection. Featuring race bikes from the 1980s to the mid-2000s, the collection is “not just for show”, the hotel says on its website. “They can be rented for a ride or photoshoot.”
See more at flandrienhotel.com
