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Location:

We chose to stay at Les Tanneurs on our weekend break in Namur and after taking the Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Brussels Midi, it was just a relaxing one hour rail journey through the Belgian countryside to our destination. From the station we then enjoyed a 15 minute stroll through the attractive town centre to reach the hotel.

Arrival and check-in:

Arriving at Les Tanneurs de Namur felt like stepping into a blend of history and charm. Tucked away in the heart of the old town, the hotel occupies 15 connected 17th century houses, once old tanneries which have been tastefully converted to retain their historic architecture.

The exposed brick and wooden beams of the reception area created a good first impression and with a quick and efficient check-in, we were soon being directed to our suite. It came as an added bonus that our room was ready at only 11.00 a.m. in the morning so after confirming our dinner reservation we set off to settle into our room.

The room:

Our suite was located in a newly built modern building, just a few steps outside the hotel’s main entrance. While the original hotel is full of historic charm and old-world character, this part of the property offered a fresh, contemporary contrast gave us the best of both worlds.

The lift took us to our room on the third floor and with only one room on each level it felt both private and peaceful. On entering our suite, we could hardly believe how big it was. We entered through a fully fitted kitchen that led through to a spacious living / sleeping area. The suite was thoughtfully designed with a minimalist style whilst still having a cosy feel.

Large windows to three sides brought in plenty of natural light and everything from the lighting to the air conditioning was easy to use and well integrated. The huge bed was exceptionally comfortable and with a large sofa that could be utilised as a guest bed for families, a dining table and chairs, desk and large television, it felt like a home from home.

The bathroom was both stylish and spacious with a huge walk-in shower, twin wash basins, thick, fluffy towels, bathrobes and fragrant toiletries.

Being slightly separate from the main building, our suite gave us a sense of calm while still allowing easy access to the hotel restaurant, reception and lounge areas of the main building. Umbrellas were available but even though we encountered a few drops of rain, these weren’t needed for the very short hop across the courtyard.

Dining:

Dinner at the Grill Restaurant at Les Tanneurs de Namur was an epicurean delight set in a cosy, stylish space that blended rustic charm with a modern touch. The restaurant had an inviting atmosphere, with soft lighting, exposed brick work and the mouth watering aroma of food being cooked over a wood fired grill.

The menu focuses on high quality meat and fish grilled to perfection with a variety of cuts and sauces to suit every taste. We both opted for the Tante Jeanne three course menu which was an absolute bargain at only $38 (£33) per person. The steak and duck were standout mains, both being very tender, expertly cooked and full of flavour. Side dishes of seasonal vegetables complemented the main courses perfectly and our desserts of profiteroles topped with melted Belgian chocolate, divine. The service was friendly and efficient, striking the perfect balance between attentiveness and relaxation.

Breakfast was a delightful start to the day, served in a separate dining area from the Grill restaurant where we had dined the previous evening. This was also a characterful room providing us with a relaxed and welcoming start to the day.

The buffet offered a generous selection of both hot and cold options including freshly baked bread and pastries, local cheese, cured meats, scrambled eggs, bacon and seasonal fruits. There was also yogurt, cereals and a variety of juices along with excellent coffee and tea which set us up nicely for the day ahead.

The Facilities:

Les Tanneurs de Namur offers a wonderful blend of historic charm and modern convenience that makes it an excellent choice for visitors to the city. Alongside the Grill restaurant, one can enjoy a memorable meal in the elegant Epicure Restaurant which is yet another of the hotel’s culinary delights and a sought after venue for local functions and family parties.

Dotted around the main building are numerous cosy, small lounge areas to sit and relax and with a 24 hour reception and strong Wi-Fi connection we were more than happy. Due to the hotel’s position in the old town, parking is limited to just a few spaces to the front of the building but with an underground car park nearby I didn’t see this as being too much of a problem.

Out and About:

Take the cable car up to the Citadel

I suggest starting your day by heading over to the cable car station, standard return tickets €8 (£6.95). As the cable car climbs to the hilltop enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the river winding through the heart of the city.

Beneath the fortress lies a network of tunnels stretching for several kilometers that were once used for troop movement, storage and to defend the city. Book an English speaking 90 minute guided tour along 495m of the tunnels which starts from the Terra Nova visitor centre. Standard adult tickets €12 (£10.44). The tour, led by an informative guide takes visitors through underground tunnels with interactive displays and sound effects recreating historical moments Namur Citadel.

Visit the Parfumerie Guy Delforge

Located a few minutes walk from the visitor centre lies the Parfumerie Guy Delforge. I would definitely recommend a visit as it is not just a shop but also a working perfume laboratory built directly into the citadel’s ancient corridors and cellars. Enjoy a guided ‘behind the scenes’ tour through the perfume making process to learn that the natural cool temperatures and thick stone walls of the citadel create the perfect environment for maturing fragrances, much like aging fine wine or whisky. Delforge Perfumery

Explore the life and works of Félicien Rops

Tucked away in the quiet, cobbled streets of Namur’s old town, the Musée Félicien Rops is housed in an elegant 18th-century townhouse, Félicien Rops was a 19th century Belgian artist from Namur who was known for his provocative, erotic and often disturbing artwork that challenged the moral and religious values of his time. Standard admission is €5 (£4.35) and includes the use of audio guides. The museum is carefully curated, weaving Rops’ life into the fabric of 19th century Europe. Personal letters, sketches, and rare publications line the displays, revealing a man both deeply intellectual and defiantly rebellious. Museum Felicien Rops

Overall:

Our designer suite combined with a great location made for a convenient and welcoming place to stay for our weekend break. While the historic buildings add unique charm, they also mean there are some stairs and uneven floors on most levels so do bear this in mind if you have problems with mobility. Overall, Les Tanneurs is a perfect base for experiencing Namur’s culture and beautiful surroundings combining character, comfort and excellent service and we enjoyed it all very much indeed.

Details: Hotel Les Tanneurs de Namur, Rue des Tanneries 13‑13b, 5000 Namur, Belgium

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During our stay we were guests of Visit Wallonia and as always, all views and opinions are entirely my own.