Elzenveld ***

WARNING! Do not stay in this hotel unless you first receive a confirmatory letter or email confirming your booking, otherwise you may experience what happened to me and a friend when we stayed at the hotel on 14th April 2012. On 5th April, I telephoned the hotel directly and booked rooms (at €76 each) and then sent an email confirming the booking. They did not confirm the booking (although they said on the phone that they would) and I foolishly forgot to chase up the confirmation they promised. When we checked-in at the hotel on 14th April, their receptionist said they had never received my booking or email and said they only had available two much more expensive rooms on a take-it-or-leave-it-basis. As it was late in the evening we had no option but to commit ourselves to the greater expenditure. Interestingly, the following morning when we were checking out, there was a gentleman who had made a previous booking for himself and his wife and he had emailed the hotel in good time beforehand to say that unfortunately his wife was not able to attend with him. The hotel denied that they had received the email and made him pay for his wife as well! Upon returning to the UK, I emailed the hotel twice asking for an explanation but again I did not receive any response: so I took this matter up with the Antwerp Tourist Board and they followed this up with various emails to the Hotel Elzenveld but they also did not receive any reply! As far as the hotel itself is concerned, it is well situated and has a pleasant garden. The rooms are reasonable but the facilities are minimal. I shall never stay there again due to this bad experience. D S Baber Amersham U.K.

We stayed for one night at this hotel. The hotel itself is in a very nice setting, within an old hospital, and next to the botanic gardens. The location is good, it is right next to the theatresplein which is full of market stalls on the weekend, and from here you can follow the pedestrianised shopping streets to the main market square (10 mins). Our room was very spacious, and clean. It is not modern, but instead the decor is in keeping with the style of the hotel and its surrounds. The continental breakfast was good, and served in a modern breakfast room. The hotel is very secure and in a safe area.

Have just spent two nights at the Hotel Residentie Elzenveld and can't rate it highly enough! It's not like an average corporate hotel since it is a well-converted 16th century building with great atmosphere and quirky charm. It's simple but absolutely spotless and the staff are friendly, helpful and polite.It does not have some of things some travellers expect such as a bar and pool but there is lots of storage space, a hairdryer and toiletries in the bathroom and the rooms are cosy and warm. The main advantage is the absolute peace and quiet to be found there, even though the hotel is within walking distance of all the sights. This was important to us since Antwerp seems to be a party town with bars and restaurants full to bursting, It was so quiet we thought we were the only guests and it was only at breakfast that we realised that there were lots of other people there. Unusually there were no slamming doors and no plumbing noises and although this place might not suit those who want a lively atmosphere, for us, it was sheer bliss.

Stayed here twice now. It's a good location, about 5-10 minutes walk from the centre. This conference centre and hotel is in a coverted monastery, and the buildings and grounds have a very peaceful feel. The first time I stayed in a single room - it was very small but had everything I needed. The second time I stayed in a suite, and it was lovely. The room was on two levels, with the bedroom upstairs and living room, small kitchen and bathroom downstairs. The accommodation was very comfortable and the view from the window over the grounds was lovely. Breakfast was very good - a buffet with eggs to order. Plus a range of teas and coffees to order. I think the hotel is very well suited to business travel - I probably wouldn't choose it for a romantic trip away. Highly recommended!

Very near the main attractions. Had difficulty finding it at first because the name of the hotel is not found outside or along the street. You have to walk through a courtyard to get access to the hotel. The locals are not aware that the hotel exist. However, once you get past that minor hitch, everything would be great.