Antwerp is a city of charm, history, and culinary delights. Since 2022, Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, a five-star superior hotel in the heart of the city has been redefining luxury, offering guests an environment where history, design, comfort, and service meet at the highest level. From the moment you arrive, the interiors captivate with a mix of elegance, historical and contemporary flair, setting the stage for an immersive stay. The hotel’s culinary offerings are even more impressive. From casual bites to the highest level of fine dining, each experience reflects meticulous attention to detail and exceptional quality. Refined restaurants and bars invite guests to explore innovative flavors, while the ambience encourages relaxation and indulgence. During our visit, we found ourselves completely absorbed in the hotel’s world, savoring every meal, drink, and moment of leisure, making a trip into the city totally optional. Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is, in every sense, a destination in itself.

Location & Hotel

Antwerp has always been a city bustling with energy, culture, and creativity. Over the last decade, it has also established itself as one of Belgium’s most exciting culinary capitals, with a constellation of Michelin stars and a thriving dining scene. What the city lacked, until recently, was a hotel that could match this new sense of sophistication. A place where luxury, history, and gastronomy come together. With the arrival of Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp in 2022, that gap has been filled in the most spectacular way.

Hidden behind centuries-old walls in the very heart of the city, Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is a world of its own. The moment you step inside, the bustle of Antwerp seems to fade away, replaced by calm courtyards, cloisters, and gardens that whisper of a rich past. Built on the site of a former monastery and hospital, parts of which date back to the 13th century, the property has been restored with extraordinary care. Time seems to flow differently here : Gothic arches lead into glass corridors, medieval stone meets warm wood, and quiet chapels give way to sunlit conservatories. It is a place where history feels tangible, yet never heavy at all. Alive, welcoming, and filled with light.

From the very first encounter, there is a warmth that defines the experience. The staff at the entrance of the hotel, do not just greet you. They seem to take you by the hand and invite you into their world. Entering the lobby, filled with loads of greenery and natural light, is like a first breath of fresh air. It sets the tone for everything that follows : a feeling of being truly cared for, of being in a sanctuary that exists to make you slow down, rest, and indulge.

The 108 rooms and suites carry this same balance of serenity and comfort. They share a sense of understated elegance, with natural fabrics, soft tones, and details that quietly surprise. Some offer private spa facilities, while the Botanic Suite boasts a terrace that looks out over the gardens. Rather than overwhelming with grandeur, the design soothes, encouraging you to feel at home, to linger, to breathe, while being extremely spoiled and comfortable at all times. The hotel’s soul also lies in its devotion to wellness. The three-story Botanic Health Spa is more than just a place to unwind, it is a journey. A panoramic pool impresses with its design and views, herbal saunas carry the scent of ancient and modern remedies, and treatments are inspired by the medicinal traditions once practiced here. There is a sense of continuity, as if the spirit of healing that first took root centuries ago has simply found a new expression for today.

And then, of course, there is the food. Antwerp may already be a paradise for gourmets, but Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp raised the bar even higher. A lot higher. With four restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Hertog Jan and Fine Fleur, and the involvement of Roger van Damme, one of the best pastry chefs in the world, the hotel has become a true culinary destination in itself. Travel to Antwerp to indulge in the phenomenal food served in the different restaurants of Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp and discover the city as the delightful backdrop to your stay. Some of the ingredients used in the restaurants are even drawn straight from its gardens, echoing the centuries-old apothecary tradition of cultivating herbs for both healing and flavor. Each restaurant offers its own voice, but together they form a chorus that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the beauty of nature on the plate.

What makes Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp unforgettable is how all these elements intertwine. History, architecture, gardens, wellness, gastronomy, and hospitality, none exists on its own, but together they create a rhythm, a harmony. In the middle of a lively, modern city, you find yourself in a place that feels timeless, where every detail is designed not just to impress, but to move you. This is not just a hotel, it is a story brought to life, a sanctuary in the truest sense. Whether you come for the food, the spa, the history, or simply to be surrounded by its atmosphere, the experience stays with you long after you leave. Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is a reminder that luxury is not only about comfort, but about connection, to a place, to its history, and to yourself. And we absolutely felt that connection during our stay.

Rooms & Suites

The hotel has 108 rooms and suites situated in five historic buildings : Sint-Joris, Monasterium, Sint-Elisabeth, Alnetum and Filips Van Marnix Huis. Even though the property is situated in the middle of Antwerp’s busy city center, the moment we closed the door of our room, we felt like we had stepped into a world of calm and quiet. It’s a true haven. The rooms combine historic elegance with contemporary luxury, and everything just works. In a building with so much history, you can sometimes expect some compromises when it comes to modern convenience. Not in Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp. The Wi-Fi was flawless and the water in the bathroom was instantly hot. And even though the hotel was fully booked, we did not hear a single sound from neighboring rooms.

• Classic Room : (18-25 m²) these rooms, which are meant for two adults, are executed with natural colors and fabrics that perfectly match with the nearby Botanical Garden. In line with the whole property, also in the Classic Rooms you will feel indulged in understated luxury. In the room you will also find a minimalist bathroom with rain shower.
• Deluxe Room : (25-40 m²) these rooms, which are meant for two adults, but which can also hold a baby crib, are slightly bigger than the Classic Rooms, but similar in style. Some of the Deluxe Rooms also feature a free-standing bath.
• Deluxe Room with Terrace : (26m² + 13m² private terrace) these rooms have a private terrace with tranquil chapel garden views. The minimalist bathrooms feature a rain shower and a freestanding bath.
• Junior Suite : (40-50 m²) the suites which can comfortably cater for two adults and a baby crib, are characterized by a palette of mellow earth tones, natural stone and warm woods.
• Family Duplex : (40-50 m²) these rooms are ideal for families of two adults and up to two children. The rooms have two floors, connected with a wooden staircase.
• One Bedroom Suite : (50-75 m²) these suites feature a king-sized bed and separate seating area. The hued textiles against rough-textured walls create a serene atmosphere of understated luxury. To make that feeling complete, there is an in-room wine climate cabinet and fresh flowers.
• One Bedroom Suite with Terrace : (50-75 m²) these suites feature in addition a private terrace surrounded by greenery and fragrant herbs

• Two Bedroom Suite : (75-95 m²) theses suites can cater for up to four adults and a baby crib. You will find two separate sleeping areas, two bathrooms, and a generously sized living area. The suite has stunning rooftop views and comes with your own private entrance.
• Two Bedroom Spa Suite : (140 m²) this suite is perfect for up to four adults and one child. On the lower level there is a peaceful lounge with views of the chapel garden. There are two bedrooms, two luxurious bathrooms, an expansive couch in the living area, a kitchenette and a dinner table. Upstairs there is a private spa with Technogym bike, whirlpool, Finnish sauna and heated treatment bed.
• Diamond Suite : (94 m²) this suite can cater two adults and a baby crib. The suite has a separate bedroom, including a walk-in wardrobe. Next to that, the suite also has a luxurious expansive salon.
• Botanic Suite : (94m² + 68m² private terrace) this unique suite has a private rooftop terrace, offering amazing views of the Antwerp skyline. The suite which is ideal for two adults has a living room and a private bedroom. The bathroom features a deep-soaking bathtub and walk-in shower.

Gastronomy

We said it before. There are many reasons why a visit to Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is a great idea. The beauty of the heritage buildings, the serene gardens, the spa that feels like a world of its own. But if one reason truly stands above all others, it is the culinary indulgence that can be found on property. With four remarkable restaurants, among them the Michelin-starred Hertog Jan by Gert de Mangeleer and Joachim Boudens, and Fine Fleur by Jacob Jan Boerma and Thomas Diepersloot, the hotel is nothing less than a gastronomic sanctuary. And yet, the indulgence goes beyond fine dining. Mornings begin with breakfasts that feel almost decadent, afternoons invite you to linger over a refined high tea curated by Roger van Damme, and brunch is a celebration of abundance and taste.

• Hertog Jan : The reopening of Hertog Jan at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp in 2022 marked a new chapter for one of Belgium’s most celebrated culinary partnerships. Within just seven months, chefs Gert De Mangeleer and Joachim Boudens secured two Michelin stars, affirming their status at the forefront of global fine dining. The restaurant is deliberately intimate, with a limited number of tables, and its minimalist interior, characterized by concrete surfaces and shades of grey and beige, keeps the focus entirely on the cuisine. Only very limited decorations are present, creating a serene, understated atmosphere that perfectly complements De Mangeleer’s precise, imaginative cooking. The menu is heavily influenced by Asia, with particularly pronounced Japanese elements, and is presented in a format reminiscent of an omakase experience. Each dish is executed with extreme precision, showcasing the best seasonal ingredients and often featuring fresh herbs from the restaurant’s own garden. Flavors are layered and refined, reflecting the chefs’ commitment to technical perfection and a Japanese inspired culinary vision. De Mangeleer and Boudens have collaborated for more than two decades. They first made their mark at Hertog Jan in Bruges, eventually earning three Michelin stars and numerous accolades, including European Chef of the Year for De Mangeleer and Belgium’s Best Sommelier for Boudens. After closing the Bruges location in 2018 to explore new ventures, they revived Hertog Jan in Antwerp, achieving immediate recognition with 18/20 points and four toques in Gault&Millau Belgium 2023. Service is led by Boudens himself, whose attention to detail and expertise elevate the dining experience to its highest level, perfectly complementing De Mangeleer’s intricate cuisine. The combination of an intimate setting, minimalist design, and precise, refined dishes makes Hertog Jan Antwerp a destination for diners seeking a technically flawless and immersive tasting journey.
  • Discover our article of Hertog Jan here

• Bar Bulot : Bar Bulot traces its origins to Zedelgem, in the very restaurant where Hertog Jan began its celebrated journey. There, the refined brasserie-style establishment Bar Bulot earned a Michelin star, setting the tone for its elevated take on classic Belgian cuisine. The Antwerp location in Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp serves as the perfect sister restaurant, combining the charm of a refined and high class brasserie with carefully executed, refined dishes. Each plate reflects precision and creativity, highlighting seasonal ingredients and top-quality produce. The restaurant’s signature vol-au-vent is a standout, exemplifying the balance of tradition and meticulous technique that defines the kitchen. With attentive service and an atmosphere that blends elegance with approachability, Bar Bulot offers a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience, perfect for both a light meal or a leisurely multi-course visit.

• Fine Fleur : Fine Fleur brings together the talents of Jacob Jan Boerma and Thomas Diepersloot, two chefs from The Netherlands. Boerma earned his reputation at De Leest in Vaassen, guiding it to three Michelin stars with a cuisine rooted in precision, balance, and international flair. Diepersloot, shaped by youthful travels through Asia, by working on the side of Boerma in De Leest, but also by his experience at Restaurant Voltaire in Leersum, adds a distinctive global perspective. Their reunion at Fine Fleur results in a harmonious partnership, blending exacting craftsmanship with a cosmopolitan imagination. The kitchen draws on the best of Belgian produce while weaving in influences from Asia, Spain, southern Europe, and North America, producing dishes that are both grounded and adventurous. Acclaimed almost immediately after opening, Fine Fleur has been awarded one Michelin star.

• Henry’s Bar & Bistro : let us be open to you : we adore this bar ! Having a cocktail here, transports you to the feeling of comparable cocktail bars in cities such as Singapore, New York or London. Inspired by Henri-Ferdinand van Heurck, the 19th-century director of the Botanical Garden, the venue artfully combines the vibrant energy of the bar with the sophistication of a bistro, where indoor and outdoor spaces flow effortlessly. The venue offers a refined yet lively dining experience. The menu showcases creativity, precision, and international influences. Guests can enjoy signature cocktails, a thoughtfully curated wine selection, and dishes that blend classic techniques with global flavors. The combination of elegant surroundings and carefully crafted cuisine makes every visit a memorable culinary experience.

Apart from these top notch dining experiences, Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp also offers some additional culinary experiences that add further to its image of being a true culinary destination :

• High Tea by Atelier van Damme : In the former monastery kitchens, afternoons take on a different character between Thursday and Sunday, when a tea service curated by famous and award winning pastry chef Roger van Damme is presented. The experience begins with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Brut, followed by a sequence of small savory bites, including freshly made sandwiches and scones accompanied by classic condiments. The focus then shifts to a variety of pastries and sweets, each created by Roger van Damme and perfectly executed by young patissier Julie Houthave and her team. Alongside the food, a selection of carefully sourced teas is offered.
• The Botanic Brunch : On Sundays and during selected celebrations, brunch is held in the Amaryllis hall, a space known for its historic atmosphere. The occasion begins with a glass of Nicolas Feuillatte Blanc de Blancs 2015 Champagne, setting the tone for a varied menu accompanied by live music. The meal unfolds in several stages: starters might include oysters and lobster, followed by a range of main dishes that cover grilled meats, roasted fish, and vegetarian preparations. A cheese course highlights Belgian specialties before the focus shifts to desserts, which are presented in an extensive array. Throughout the service, wines are chosen and served under the guidance of the sommelier, ensuring that each stage of the meal is matched with an appropriate pairing.

• The Botanic Breakfast Experience : One of our favorite moments of the day during our stay in Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp was the morning. Not necessarily because we are early risers, but because it was the moment that in the Catalpa room of the hotel starts a true culinary feast : the breakfast ! The breakfast in Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp combines regional flavors with thoughtful culinary craftsmanship. It was hard to say no to the glass of Champagne or the mimosa which was offered to us at the start of the indulgence. From that moment onwards, the experience only went uphill. Imagine ordering a Belgian waffle made by top patissier Roger van Damme or a smoothie shot created by Fine Fleur chef Jacob Jan Boerma. While we enjoyed the stunning room in which the breakfast is served, and for a moment our attention went to the high ceilings, the potted plants, and the antique botanical illustrations, very fast our complete focus was drawn to the impressive buffet with a variety of locally sourced items, including seafood, artisanal charcuterie, and cheeses from Van Tricht, a renowned family of affineurs in Antwerp. Freshly baked croissants, breads, and rolls accompany options such as oats, granolas, fruit, salads, yoghurts, pastries, eggs, bacon, jams, and traditional butter. It is impossible to not find all what your heart desires at the buffet, but in case you are still looking for an add on, a seasonal à la carte menu offers made-to-order dishes like Eggs Benedict, French toast, and full English breakfasts, all created by the top chefs who have restaurants in the hotel.

Hotel Assets

Whatever you might need during your stay at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, you quickly realize that nearly anything is possible. Need to focus and work? The hotel’s meeting rooms are perfectly equipped and thoughtfully designed and plenty in number. Craving a moment of indulgence for your body ? The spa is a serene escape unlike any other. Curious about hosting music in a chapel ? It can be arranged with care and style. And if you are dreaming of marking a lifetime together, the hotel provides a setting both intimate and unforgettable for a wedding and caters for all the required services.

• Botanic Congress Centre
  • Larix auditorium : (325 sqm) can accommodate 290 people and features two interpreters booths and a fully equipped technical control room.
  • Ceder room : (238 sqm), ideal for receptions and banquets, with its own private bar.
  • Amaryllis hall : (421 sqm) on the ground floor, ideal for exhibitions, events and product launches, with a portico that allows automobile access.
  • Hevea : (51 sqm) meeting room with Technogym equipment and a wall to write on.
  • Ginkgo boardroom : features luscious leather chairs and an in-room bar.
  • Marie-Rose : (81 sqm) meeting room with botanical décor.
  • Eucalyptus : (48 sqm) room for meetings of up to 30 people.
  • Quercus 1 and 2 : (combined 182 sqm) separate meeting rooms with a partition that can be removed.
  • Catalpa : room for special seminar lunches.
  • Platanus : (102 sqm) ideal for multi-day conferences.
  • The Monastery Garden offers an energizing immersion in nature.
  • The historic 15^th century chapel : truly unique and a perfect venue for receptions and celebrations.

• Botanic Health Spa : as much as we fell in love with the food of Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, we were also a big fan of the unique Botanic Health Spa. At the cutting edge of modern design, the gym and exclusive fitness club features the latest Technogym equipment, ensuring a top-tier workout experience. Located on the airy top floor of the Botanic Health Spa and open around the clock, the space is devoted entirely to fitness. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows seamlessly connect the interior with the outside world, allowing every session to unfold against a scenic backdrop of treetops and historic rooftops. Even more spectacular in our opinion is the panoramic swimming pool of 18 meters long. The unique design of the pool enables great views, while still feeling secluded. In the spa, visitors can explore a wide range of treatments, from expert hands-on therapies to personalized programs informed by the latest scientific assessments of body and skin health. Led by a team of specialists skilled in both traditional European and Chinese medicine, the spa emphasizes a holistic approach to wellbeing. Its signature programs harness botanical innovations and tailored skincare solutions to support longevity, vitality, and radiance.

• The Saint Charles Concept Store : concept store of the renowned Austrian sustainable health brand, boasting over 400 products, from certified natural cosmetics and aromatherapy to functional food, Herbal Remedies and nutritional supplements
• Granada Gallery : unique gallery concept created in Tucson USA, which found a collaboration with Belgian jewelry designer Jochen Leën.

Why Go?

From the moment we arrived at the property until the day we left, every detail of our visit was infused with care and quiet luxury. Service is everything you would expect from a five-star superior property : warm, attentive, and always a step ahead. The hotel itself is just as captivating. Historic architecture blends seamlessly with modern comfort, with sunlight flooding through centuries-old windows and greenery softening every corner. The result is an atmosphere that feels both elegant and effortlessly inviting. And then, there is the food. Of course, there is the food ! Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is, without any question, a true culinary destination. Michelin-starred fine dining, lavish breakfasts, and refined high teas made it impossible for us to leave the property during our stay. Every meal was a pure celebration of flavor and creativity. Yes, we admit… We fell in love with this place. And we are certain you will too. That is why you should go.