Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp: A Modern Haven Rooted in History
Nestled within Antwerp’s centuries-old Botanic Garden, Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern-day luxury. What was once a 12th-century monastery has been thoughtfully transformed into a serene sanctuary, embracing its botanical heritage while presenting a thoroughly modern approach to wellbeing and hospitality.
At the heart of the property lies the Botanic Garden itself, an oasis of medicinal plants and rare species that has graced Antwerp for generations. These verdant grounds lend the sanctuary an unparalleled tranquility, offering a lush, green contrast to the bustling city just beyond its walls.
Rooms with a Sense of Place
The accommodation at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is as layered as its history. Each of the 108 rooms and suites is designed with understated elegance, seamlessly blending historic charm with contemporary comforts. Expect natural materials, soft linens, and a muted palette that mirrors the calming surroundings. Some suites feature vaulted ceilings and views of the garden, inviting guests to unwind in spaces that feel both intimate and expansive.
Botanic Health Spa
At the health spa, located within Botanic Antwerp, guests are invited to indulge in a serene escape tailored to rejuvenation and mindfulness. For a wellness experience that complements your stay, consider their signature facial treatments or Botanic Relaxation Massage, which blends aromatherapy with expert techniques to release tension and restore balance. These treatments use natural, botanical-infused products that reflect the hotel’s deep connection to nature and its urban oasis setting.
Alternatively, their Vital Dome experience, a deeply detoxifying infrared treatment, offers a modern approach to holistic wellness, making it a must-try for those seeking to harmonize body and mind. Afterward, unwind in the tranquil relaxation lounge, where herbal teas and soft lighting create a perfect end to your rejuvenation ritual.
This in-house wellness option allows you to embrace Antwerp's elegance while finding moments of sanctuary right where you're staying.
Culinary Delights, Elevated
Dining at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is a celebration of flavor and craftsmanship, with an impressive lineup of Michelin-starred experiences. The gastronomic highlight is Hertog Jan, where chefs reinterpret Belgian classics with innovative precision. The restaurant, much like the sanctuary itself, is deeply connected to its surroundings, utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that feel rooted yet inventive. For those seeking something lighter, there’s the Botanical Bistro, offering garden-inspired plates in a more casual setting.
Antwerp, Beyond the Gates
Though it’s tempting to stay cocooned within the Botanic Sanctuary’s walls, Antwerp’s charms beckon just steps away. Begin with a leisurely stroll through the surrounding Botanic Garden, an urban haven with over 200 plant species. For art lovers, the Rubens House is a short walk away, while Antwerp’s renowned shopping district promises a mix of avant-garde and timeless style.
A Modern Eden
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp offers something rare: a true retreat in the heart of the city. It’s a place where history and modernity meet, where the natural world infuses every detail, and where guests are invited to slow down and savor life’s simplest pleasures. Whether you're drawn to its botanical roots, wellness focus, or culinary excellence, the sanctuary promises an experience as unique as Antwerp itself.
Must-See Highlights in Antwerp:
Rubens House and Garden: Step into the artistic universe of Peter Paul Rubens, where Flemish charm meets Italian Renaissance grandeur. The meticulously restored home and tranquil garden offer a glimpse into the life of one of Antwerp’s greatest artists—a perfect retreat for art enthusiasts and daydreamers alike.
De Koninck Brewery: Get to know Antwerp’s brewing heritage at this lively spot. From the iconic Bolleke beer to interactive exhibits on the craft of brewing, it’s a fun way to soak up local culture with a pint in hand.
Red Star Line Museum: This poignant museum brings migration stories to life in the heart of the Eilandje district. Through personal artifacts and immersive displays, you’ll uncover tales of courage and new beginnings that still resonate today.
Insider Gems:
Saturday Market at Theaterplein: A sensory delight just steps from Rubens House. Think Moroccan spices, fresh produce, and Belgian pastries—all in one vibrant, bustling market.
Den Engel Café: Tucked away on Grote Markt, this cozy “brown café” feels like a step back in time. Order a Bolleke, soak in the nostalgic ambiance, and mingle with locals and visitors alike.
Address
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp
Lange Gasthuisstraat 45
Antwerp
2000, Belgium