Brussels For Lovers

Paris may have the Eiffel Tower and Rome mayL'Archiduc
have the Trevi Fountain but, if you're looking forIf you're looking for a romantic evening out in Brussels
romance, Brussels is every bit as appealing for acity, hotel concierges and local city guides will often
snatched weekend away or a magical, low-keyrecommend L'Archiduc on the oh-so-stylish Antoine
honeymoon rendezvous. It is a city which begsDansaert's Street. With a fabulously authentic 1930s
exploration and, from the moment you check into yourArt Deco decor complete with grand piano, and a
Brussels city hotel, you will be entranced by thewarm, friendly underground jazz club ambience,
blending of a cosmopolitan culture with quaint, medievalL'Archiduc's charm lies in its long-standing history as
cobbled streets and an almost tangible sense ofmuch as with its eclectic line-up of talent. Boasting an
history. But hidden behind the bustling boulevards andamazing cocktail and aperitif menu, it makes for a
the buzzing city squares lies the quieter, morewonderful, relaxing evening to snuggle into one of the
reflective heart of Brussels.discreet booths or plush armchairs with your 'amour'
The Food of Loveand soak up the sensual atmosphere of the club. Once
Chocolate and love are synonymous and, luckily, soyou've had your fill of music and martinis, it's only a
are chocolate and Brussels. Belgian chocolate isshort, romantic stroll along the boulevard back to your
considered to be amongst the best in the world andBrussels city hotel.
La Maison des Maitres, situated on the Grand Place inHidden Gardens
the city, is a wonderful place to visit for a romantic dayFor an early morning stroll, or an afternoon wander to
filled with all things chocolate. For those stayingwalk off your lunch (or those Belgian designer
centrally, La Maison des Maitres is conveniently locatedchocolates), within easy distance of your Brussels city
just steps from your Brussels city hotel. After a lighthotel is a hidden gem in the form of the Jean Felix Hap
breakfast, wander down to the flagship showroomGarden. Although it occupies a central space in the
and surprise your lover with a 45 minute Chocolatecity, the positioning of the surrounding architecture
Discovery Workshop. You will be taken on a virtualmanages to almost entirely obscure any reference to
journey through the history of chocolate, as well asthe garden and, to those who discover it, it is a magical
sampling the creations of 10 Belgian Masterinner-city sanctum of calm. The two entrances to the
Chocolatiers. From rustic looking creations with wholegardens - one on Wavre Street and the other on
fruit and nuts to delicately crafted pralines in exquisiteLouis Hap Street - are the gateways to this serene,
casings, your taste-buds will be crying out for mercy.green space. For nature-lovers, or those simply
This is the ultimate chocolate lover's experience - andwanting to spend some time in reflection, the Jean
just perfect for romantics.Felix Hap Gardens are a real oasis.