Chic Cycling Weekend
It’s always a pleasure to take a break in the beautiful countryside of Limbourg in northeastern Belgium! To round off this sense of well-being, discover the elegant La Butte aux Bois hotel (a Small Luxury Hotels) which, true to its name, is situated at the edge of a wood. This setting instills a feeling of serenity after the long drive from home. The reception service is highly professional and efficient; after all, there is nothing more annoying than a long wait upon arrival with our luggage..
The view from our room, located in the modern wing of the property and facing a large park lined with slender trees, is soothing! We are lucky: the sky is blue, and the temperature is perfect for a bike ride. The hotel provides e-bikes. I really like the room’s décor : minimalist yet warm and inviting, with a distinctively Japanese feel, as well as the way the bed is positioned (see photos below). What a luxury to wake up to such a view! The garden and outdoor terrace also offer a peaceful spot to relax. From the spa, you can enjoy a view of giant floral sculptures (photo montage 3).
Another highlight of La Butte aux Bois is its restaurants. We dined at the fine-dining restaurant La Source: a delight for both the eyes and the palate! Set against a monochromatic white backdrop that contrasts with the hotel’s manor section, the space features a graphic opening in the wall, offering a view of the kitchen, where you can see the chef and his team work. The impeccable service is pleasant. e also had lunch at the bistro Le Ciel, where we enjoyed refined, flavorful dishes served in a more exuberant, maximalist setting. This is also where the breakfast is served each morning. The Papillon bar is another cozy spot to linger during quieter hours (see the final photo collage below).
Oops, I almost forgot the detail that makes this elegant hotel more unique: the collection of giant crystals belonging to the owner, the jewelry designer Jochen Leen, which are scattered throughout the common areas (pictured in photo montage 2). It is unusual and original.
1. A Room With A View
2. Fine Dinner at La Source & Lunch at Le Ciel Restaurants
3. The Garden
Photos : © Mademoiselle Le K – Tous droits réservés
Informations
Many thanks to La Butte aux Bois for this superb invitation. As always, these are my opinions. Just so you know, I wrote this article myself (in the traditional, “old-school” way).
