Hotel Gran Kaffee De Passage is a really wonderful hostel. taying here guarantees a fantastic experience, not to mention being an extreme value-for-money. The charming, quaint, and resortlike atmosphere of Bruges makes this a perfect place indeed to spend several nights in.
The hostel is located about a ten- to fifteen-minute walk away from the Bruges train station. From the train station, getting to the hostel is relatively straightforward. Simply turn left at the station entrance and follow the main road down towards the left till you come to a cluster of quaint cafes and shops. The hostel is down the second street to the right.
The staff at the hostel is very friendly and welcoming, always ready with information and jokes. The reception counter provides for free a very informative map of Bruges, so be sure to ask for it.
The rooms are located on the first, second, and third levels of the hostel. The stairs are somewhat narrow, making going up and down the stairs with a backpack a bit difficult, but definitely manageable. The dormitories available range from four to seven bedders, and the key to the room is provided in return for the deposition of some official form of ID, such as an ID card or driving license. Though simple, the rooms are tastefully and cheerfully decorated, each equipped with a sink. The rooms are very clean and well maintained and some rooms offer a view over the rooftops of Bruges. The toilets and showers are also clean and well lighted. Hot showers are available through a very good heating system, and there is adequate water pressure supplying the showers. One drawback of the hostel bathrooms is the curious lack of any hooks to hang clothes and towels though.
Mention must be made of the truly excellent bar and restaurant at the ground floor of the hostel. The cosy and rustic atmosphere of the restaurant makes it an excellent place for dinner. The food is extremely delicious, especially the Belgian mussels in white beer and the Flemish stew. Prices are reasonable and a free beer is also provided with each dinner order. Breakfast is not included in the price, which is a good thing considering all the cafes and delicious food to be had all around Bruges.
The central location of the hostel makes it easy to access all of Bruges' most famous landmarks and tourist spots on foot, with everything within a maximum of fifteen to twenty minutes walk away. The capital city of Brussels is also only an hour's train ride away.
This hostel is recommended for anyone planning to spend a few days in the picturesque town of Bruges.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
July 2006
3 Average from 6 Ratings
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