No matter how hard I try, I am not sure that I could think of a negative point to post about this hotel. Winke, the owner / consierge / bar tender / breakfest chef / full hotel assistant, was the most helpful person that we met on our whole trip, and he did everything with a smile.

The quiet but central location - the charming historic building - the excellent, personal yet unobtrusive service - the ham and cheese omlette for breakfast -- it is difficult to know where to start when describing this unique hotel.

The building itself is a welcome departure from the extremes often found in Europe's older cities (either large chains or tiny, dingy rooms). The owners, Winke and Daphne, will be happy to fill you in on the building's 600-year history, give you tips of what to see in Bruges (including a board in the lobby informing you of what is going on this week) and generally do everything they can do to make your stay pleasant without giving you the feeling they are breathing down your neck or playing watchdog. The rooms themselves are tastefully decorated, well maintained and spotlessly clean - and the beds are excellent.

You will find many small but thoughtful features - a lending library, mosquito repellent - and of course they will watch over your luggage even after you have checked out if you want to spend the day in the city.

This quiet, beautiful, hotel is amazing for the value, and I gladly recommend the Karel de Stoute to everyone!