Natasha von Geldern discovers another hotel 'hot spot' in Brussels, Belgium.

‘The biggest hotel rooms in Brussels’ – this is the boast on the posters in the lift at the four-star Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie in the Belgian capital. European capitals are notorious for the small size of hotel rooms and I have stayed in at least five different hotels in Brussels over the years and never seen a large room. Until now.

The entrance lobby of my room has coat hooks, a suitcase stand, a wardrobe and room to swing a cat. The bathroom and toilet lead off this. The Club Rooms at the Hotel Bristol Stephanie have that rarity of rarities in hotel rooms – a separate toilet and bathroom. In the bathroom is a full-length bath (and a dish of delicately perfumed bath salts to enjoy it with), as well as a double basin unit. A full length mirror completes this entrance area before you move through into the sleeping and living area.

Two double beds do not make the room feel crowded – far from it. There is also room for a desk, a sofa area with a coffee table, and the large television screen under which you will find the minibar as well as tea and coffee making facilities. All this and my daughter still had plenty of room to set up an obstacle course with the bolsters and pillows to run around.

The breakfast buffet is everything you would expect from a quality hotel, offering a full range of hot and cold options and a little extra. I admit to a small obsession with Belgian waffles and in the breakfast room they have a waffle maker so you can make your own fresh waffles – in about three minutes.

The property features a restaurant, bar and relaxation centre on the top floor, complete with a fitness room and a sauna with stunning views over the city. The hotel lobby and restaurant area has recently been completely refurbished with bright colours and unique furniture welcoming guests.

Brussels Grand Place

A few metres away from the hotel is the Stephanie tram stop, with lines taking you in minutes to many of Brussels’ top attractions. The glamorous shops of Avenue Louise – the trendiest street in Brussels – are of course right on the doorstep. The famous Sablon antiques market is a short stroll away.

Hotel guests and others can enjoy the refined French restaurant on site – Restaurant Le Chalet d'Odin – and there is also the stylish Stephany’s Bar.

Looking out from the ninth floor over the rooftops of Brussels through the floor to ceiling windows I could only think, once again, that whatever the season Brussels  has so much to offer.

By Natasha von Geldern

Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie is a member of Great Hotels of the World Premium Collection. Double rooms start from £58. For more information or to book, please visit the website or call 020 7380 3658.