Erasmus

The three-star Erasmus is a bit of a splurge, offering super-central modern rooms with pristine baths in the €95-170 range.

The hotel boasts a prime location one-minute south of Markt Square on the Wollestraat just as it crosses the canal. Two rooms, in fact, look out to the canal (over a patio), while the other eight face the busy street. Rooms are moderately sized and understatedly painted in oranges and reds. Décor is limited to a painting or two per room, and are furnished with a modern armchair or a simple table. Baths are renovated and quite nice, with new tiling and fresh fixtures.

The Erasmus might be named after the 16th-century philosopher, but it’s all about the beer downstairs in its “feng-shui” restaurant. Tom Allewaert, the friendly proprietor of both establishments, offers 16 beers on tap and 200 more in bottles. All are micro-brews, and the restaurant features “beer cuisine” that aims to match the food with the perfect beer.

Note: Guests are permitted to smoke in some of the hotel’s rooms, although other rooms are designated “non-smoking.” State your preference when reserving. Also note that room rates are at least €20 more expensive on the weekends.
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