Rijkhoven Bilzen, Belgium
Opened
2018
Price
$$
Rated for
Heritage Design WellnessOutside the door
The house
Martin's HotelsRestored steward's house
The Teutonic Order's seventeenth-century steward's residence is now an estate hotel, flanked by a minimalist contemporary wing.
What it’s good at
Notable
A protected seventeenth-century steward's house set beside the historic Teutonic Order commandery.
Listed
A contemporary minimalist wing contrasts with the original seventeenth-century Mosan brickwork.
Listed
A subterranean heated relaxation pool opens directly onto private garden sun terraces.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Characterful 13C building, flanked by a surprising, modern, minimalist construction. This architectural gem offers immaculate rooms, while peaceful gardens further accentuate the beauty of the site.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
The castle of Alden Biesen sits a short stroll away, surrounded by fruit orchards and quiet walking paths.
The rooms
Three suites occupy the historic brick residence, while most rooms sit in the new minimalist wing overlooking the gardens.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Black loungers sit beside the heated pool, framed by marble tiling and glass doors facing the sunken terrace.
The spa
A traditional sauna and hammam flank dark mosaic showers, and treatment rooms offer massages and facials.
AKKO Restaurant
Floor-to-ceiling windows look onto estate lawns, and the open kitchen turns out modern fine dining.
The Knight's Bar
The bar counter sits beneath original timber beams, pouring regional Limburg wines and Belgian beers.
How it began
The estate housed administrators of the Teutonic Knights for generations before the municipality acquired it for restoration in 2007.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.