An exclusive guesthouse tucked away behind the gabled facade of a glorious 16th-century mansion in the backstreets a step away from the Groeningemuseum ; staying at this little piece of heaven is like stepping back in time and into a world brightened with classy antiques and stylish decoration. With just a handful of rooms, all are beautifully appointed with top-quality, lavish furnishings and with spotless bathrooms with granite sinks and power showers. A decent breakfast is served in a suitably Gothic, tiled room overlooking the canal, and there’s a suntrap roof terrace to bask on with a beer in the early evening. Need another reason to stay? The Michelin-starred De Gouden Harynck (www.goudenharynck.be) is just across the lane.