One of the oldest cities in Belgium, Ghent, carries a unique vibe that’s echoed in its architecture. Equal parts medieval, gothic, and baroque styles define the buildings and riverfront architecture, making this a destination worth visiting.
You might be tempted to think 1898 The Post, a luxury boutique hotel that opened its doors in 2014, would be out of place in this fairytale city until you consider that the hotel inhabits the building that was once Ghent’s head post office. It showcases a feast of classic architecture built for the 1913 World’s Fair.
Designed by architect Louis Cloquet in collaboration with Stéphane Mortier, the building is an eclectic mix of neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance influences. Its clock tower stands above its neo-Gothic facade and faces the historic Saint Nicholas Church. The hotel, overlooking the Graslei, the city’s notable grain port, takes that theme and runs with it.
Arriving at the hotel, guests climb a spiraling stairway or take the lift to arrive at the reception, located in the hallway next to the famous Cobbler Bar, which is named after the type of cocktail shaker used.
Known as one of the upmarket cocktail bars in Ghent, the Cobbler Bar is a destination unto itself and features an award-winning team of mixologists, furnishings of bookcases, armchairs, and antiques, and a spectacular view of the spires of historic Ghent. It is open to the public.
Equally impressive is the residents-only Honesty Bar found in the tower. Furnished like the Cobbler Bar, the space is only accessible to hotel guests. And as the name suggests, guests write down what they’ve consumed.
The Kitchen, located on the first floor, is open to non-residents and is a cozy and intimate area, with an open fireplace. The Kitchen serves a buffet breakfast every morning and afternoon tea with freshly baked pastries.
1898 The Post has 38 rooms and suites named in honor of the building it once represented. The Stamp, The Postcard, The Letter, The Carriage, and The Loft all call back to the building’s history and theme. High ceilings, large high windows, and walls in elegant rich green are staples. Antique and bespoke furniture dating from the 20th Century completes the space, while modern amenities ensure comfort regardless of accommodation. All rooms have a stunning view of Ghent’s city center, with almost all the decorations in the rooms and suites available to purchase as a souvenir.
For those who want to experience the ultimate old-world appeal, the Tower Suite is the go-to room. Hidden in one of the octagonal towers and split over two floors, it features a white-marbled bathroom filled with Le Labo toiletries on one level and a king-size bedroom on a dark, antique wooden floor on the other. It features 360-degree views of the city.
All public areas and ground floor rooms are wheelchair accessible. Envelope No. 1, in particular, is adapted for disabled guests, with wider door frames and bathroom rails.
Located on Graslei 16 Ghent, the closest international airport is Brussels, with direct flights from some larger US airports. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the hotel by car. Hotel transfers can be arranged upon request.
