The Rise of Corinthia Bruxelles: A Historical Hotel Reimagined
The Corinthia Bruxelles marks a significant milestone as it is the first hotel of its scale to open in Brussels in over a century. Originally the Grand Hotel Astoria, this architectural gem was commissioned by the Belgian king to entice visitors to the 1910 Brussels Universal Exhibition. After enduring a lengthy closure of 17 years, the hotel reopened its doors just before Christmas, once again positioning itself as Belgium’s most opulent lodging facility. A remarkable restoration project initiated by the Malta-based Corinthia Group in 2016 breathed new life into the hotel, resulting in an investment of approximately €150 million.
A Strategic Location in Brussels
The hotel’s location on Rue Royale, close to Place de la Congrès, places it at the heart of Brussels. Although not the most conspicuous structure in the area, its central positioning is undeniably advantageous. Iconic sights such as the Grand Place, renowned for its Gothic and Baroque architecture, the Palais Royal, and the picturesque Brussels Gardens are all within a leisurely 15-minute stroll. Moreover, prominent institutions, including the European Commission’s Berlaymont headquarters, are approximately a 25-minute walk away or easily accessible via metro. Nearby attractions encompass the Royal Museums, featuring Jacques-Louis David’s famous 1793 painting, “The Death of Marat,” and the intriguing Magritte Museum, which celebrate the city’s rich artistic heritage.
The Grand Reception Experience
Upon entering the hotel, guests are welcomed into a grand reception area that opens directly into the Palm Court. This stunning salon is adorned with pedestals and crowned by an 11-meter-high stained glass roof, the original of which had been lost in the 1940s. Remarkably, the roof has been restored using black-and-white photographs and materials that reflect the existing stained glass palette in the building. The Palm Court now serves as a lively café and bar, bustling with activity even on a midweek visit. During breakfast hours, the ambiance hints at business meetings, evolving into a more relaxed and vibrant atmosphere throughout the later hours of the day.
Luxurious Yet Comfortable Accommodations
The hotel boasts 126 elegantly appointed bedrooms and suites that present a striking contrast to the grandiose public spaces. The interiors reflect a tasteful restraint, characterized by muted hues, pale marble accents, and polished brass details that create a comfortable yet contemporary ambiance. Despite the charm and luxurious qualities, certain aspects, such as the lighting systems operated by keypad controls frustratingly printed in small, lowercase letters, may require mobile phone flashlights for better visibility.
Culinary Delights in Two Main Restaurants
Gastronomes are sure to delight in the hotel’s culinary offerings, composed of two distinct restaurants. The first, Le Petit Bon Bon, is a brasserie supervised by acclaimed Belgian chef Christophe Aldiest, renowned for his previous Michelin-starred establishment. With affordable main courses starting from €26, the restaurant serves a menu imbued with local Belgian traditions, including shrimp croquettes, eel in green sauce, and duck à l’orange. The second dining venue, the Palais Royal, is helmed by chef David Martin, whose background spanning various culinary influences led to the creation of a menu that marries basic French-Belgian cuisine with Asian inspirations.
Future Developments and the Boutique Experience
While the top floor of the hotel remains under construction, with four luxurious penthouses set to debut in March, the anticipation further enhances the uniqueness of this property. One of these penthouses carries the name “Bronte,” paying homage to British novelists Charlotte and Emily Brontë, who once lectured at a nearby institution. This ongoing development highlights Corinthia Bruxelles’s commitment to not only restoring historical significance but also adding contemporary luxury and boutique experiences for its guests.
Conclusion
The Corinthia Bruxelles stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of historical elegance and modern luxury. As Belgium’s most extravagant hotel, it is designed to cater to diverse guest profiles, from business travelers to tourists seeking cultural enrichment. With its prime location, stunningly restored interiors, and exceptional dining options, it is poised to emerge as a leading accommodation choice in the heart of Brussels. The meticulous restoration achieved through the Corinthia Group’s significant investments ensures that this historic venue will continue to serve not only as a place of lodging but also as a backdrop for creating cherished memories in the vibrant capital of Belgium.
FAQs
What historical significance does the Corinthia Bruxelles hold?
The hotel, initially known as the Grand Hotel Astoria, was built by royal order to attract tourists for the 1910 Brussels Universal Exhibition and is the first hotel of its size to open in Brussels in over a century.
How much did the restoration of the Corinthia Bruxelles cost?
The restoration project initiated by the Corinthia Group in 2016 amounted to approximately €150 million.
How many restaurants are there in the Corinthia Bruxelles?
There are two main restaurants: Le Petit Bon Bon, offering Belgian cuisine, and Palais Royal, serving French-Belgian dishes with Asian influences.
How many rooms does the Corinthia Bruxelles have?
The hotel features 126 bedrooms and suites designed with a focus on comfort and contemporary style.
What attractions are near the Corinthia Bruxelles?
Notable nearby attractions include the Grand Place, Palais Royal, fellow museums such as the Magritte Museum, and the Royal Museums, which houses famous works of art.
Overview of the Culinary Experience
The culinary experience at Le Petit, a new restaurant housed in a well-appointed hotel near the Place de la Congrès, offers an engaging tasting menu that is a significant highlight amongst the city’s dining options. Guests are welcomed with a concise menu that emphasizes premium tasting experiences, with options featuring either ten courses for €135 or twelve courses for €175. Noteworthy is the provision for enhancement with truffles and lobsters, embarking the diners on a sumptuous journey. The ambiance is vibrant, characterized by a full house reminiscent of classic European dining establishments.
Signature Dishes
The menu design appears to cater to a sophisticated palate, with numerous courses revolving around raw and poached oysters, showcasing the restaurant’s inclination towards seafood. Other standout dishes feature an inventive presentation of smoked eel, presented as croquettes and further explored within the main course alongside veal in a nuanced emulsified sauce complemented by pickled plums and beet puree. The plating is not just a feast for the palate but also an aesthetic delight, with each dish resembling a meticulously crafted piece of art. However, guests may notice a bit of unevenness in the experience, as seen in the oddly textured merguez served with red mullet.
Guest Demographics and Hotel Aspirations
Observations reveal that the clientele currently comprises primarily Belgian patrons. However, with the interim managing director, Philippe Boyen, at the helm, there lies a strong belief that the offerings at the hotel and its dining amenities have the potential to lure international visitors, specifically Americans traveling between notable European cities like Amsterdam and Paris. The hope is that this culinary and hospitality experience will carve a niche in the travel itineraries of many, encouraging a discovery of Brussels.
Leisure Activities at the Hotel
A unique aspect of the hotel is its wellness offerings. The Sisley Spa is an inviting sanctuary nestled in the basement, complemented by a 9-meter swimming pool and a fully equipped gym. Guests who wish to enrich their fitness regimen can book sessions with personal trainer Paul Tucker, who brings a wealth of experience as a former British Army Physical Training Corps instructor. This emphasis on wellness aligns with contemporary hospitality trends, encouraging guests to maintain their fitness regimes while traveling.
Exploring Brussels Beyond the Hotel
For those looking to explore beyond the comforts of the hotel, various cultural attractions await. A pivotal recommendation is a tram trip to the Veals Foundation, located roughly 4 kilometers southwest of the city center. Set within a former brewery, this expansive exhibition space showcases significant artworks, with upcoming exhibitions featuring acclaimed artists. Likewise, the Boghossian Foundation’s Villa Ampang presents a culturally rich dialogue through exhibitions that explore Eastern and Western artistic influences within a beautifully restored Art Deco residence.
Future Cultural Highlights in Brussels
Brussels is poised for further cultural development with anticipated openings, such as the Canal Center Pompidou, which will establish itself as the largest cultural facility in the city and debut new exhibitions that are likely to attract both locals and tourists. This site, located in a historical garage, will also mark the first major cultural endeavor since 2015, indicating a robust trajectory for the city’s cultural landscape, further enhancing the visitor experience.
Rates and Accessibility
The hotel rates begin at approximately €500 for room-only accommodations, with an additional breakfast fee of €60 per person, a likely deterrent for those looking for more economical dining options. However, guests are encouraged to explore the charming coffee shops that dot the city, offering delightful local fare as a refreshing alternative. This blend of luxury and local experience epitomizes the European travel experience—balancing indulgence with authenticity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Corinthia Hotel and its restaurant Le Petit herald a glamorous return to Brussels’ rich cultural and culinary scene. As a crucial stop for gastronomes and cultural enthusiasts alike, it presents itself as an enchanting base for explorations within this historic city. The insightful blend of exquisite fare, wellness amenities, and proximity to notable artistic venues indeed positions it as an insightful choice for travelers seeking a richer European experience.
FAQs
What types of cuisine does Le Petit specialize in?
Le Petit specializes primarily in seafood, featuring prominently crafted tasting menus that highlight oysters and other fresh ingredients.
Are there wellness facilities available at the hotel?
Yes, the hotel includes a Sisley Spa, a swimming pool, and a gym with personal training opportunities.
What are the hotel rates?
Room rates start at approximately €500, with breakfast available for an additional €60 per person.
What cultural attractions are nearby?
Nearby attractions include the Veals Foundation and the Boghossian Foundation, both featuring contemporary art exhibitions.
Is the hotel suitable for international travelers?
Yes, the hotel aims to cater to both local and international guests, with amenities and experiences designed to appeal to a wide audience.