Auberge du Pecheur

The hotel offers a unique lodge setting accommodation nestled beautifully by a river/canal, providing a tranquil escape that many guests find memorable. Its picturesque location makes it an ideal choice for sightseers looking to explore nearby Ghent, and its spacious facilities are well-suited for families attending reunions or events, offering ample space for children. Couples can enjoy a romantic getaway with the serene riverside ambiance, while business travelers appreciate the comfortable rooms for work trips. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's charming setting and the overall comfortable stay. To enhance your visit, consider requesting a room away from areas prone to noise, such as the bar or reception, and if traveling with pets, confirm the current pet policy directly with the hotel as it has been a point of confusion for some.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests consistently appreciate the convenience of free on-site parking, which is described as excellent and ample, accommodating many vehicles. The hotel features a welcoming bar/lounge area where guests can relax and socialize, though some have noted that its proximity can lead to noise disturbances for adjacent rooms, especially during busy periods. While a dedicated fitness center or swimming pool is not a prominent feature, many rooms are thoughtfully equipped with Nespresso machines, providing a convenient option for in-room coffee. The hotel also boasts various function rooms that are frequently utilized for weddings and other events, contributing to a lively and often bustling atmosphere. However, some guests experienced issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, particularly in rooms located across the road from the main building, suggesting inconsistent coverage that might impact those needing reliable internet access.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find the rooms to be tastefully decorated and super inviting, often highlighting their spaciousness and the presence of amenities like a lounge area, desk, and walk-in wardrobe. The beds are consistently praised for being super comfy, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Many rooms offer a nice view of the river or surrounding fields, adding to the ambiance. However, some guests reported issues with worn towels and instances of mold in the bathroom, though some noted these were promptly addressed. A significant concern for many is the noise level, originating from the bar, restaurant, reception, or function rooms, and exacerbated by what some describe as thin walls. Additionally, some rooms were found to be small or dark, and a few guests experienced a lack of hot water or issues with the shower (e.g., small size, discolored grout).

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's restaurant is frequently described as a "hidden gem," attracting many locals and praised for its fabulous food and attentive service. Most guests laud the extensive breakfast buffet, highlighting its quality and variety, including options like smoked salmon, various cheeses, charcuterie, eggs, pancakes, fresh fruit, and pastries. However, feedback on dinner quality is mixed; while many find it delicious and high-quality, some guests describe it as average or overpriced, citing issues with dishes like steak, shrimp croquettes, or fries. Service in the restaurant can also be inconsistent, with some experiencing slow service, forgotten orders, incorrect bills, or cold food. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall dining experience is often positive, especially the breakfast.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a great location in a small town, surrounded by huge houses and situated idyllically next to a river/canal, offering a beautiful countryside setting. It is conveniently located for exploring Ghent, with the city center only a 20-minute drive away, making it ideal for sightseeing. The availability of excellent free on-site parking is a significant advantage for guests traveling by car. However, the hotel property is divided by a busy road, which requires caution when crossing. Additionally, some guests reported encountering roadworks in the vicinity, which occasionally impacted accessibility and navigation to the hotel. Despite these minor inconveniences, the serene and picturesque environment is a major draw.

Staff & Service
Most guests commend the friendly, helpful, and professional staff, often highlighting their attentive service and the efficiency of the quick check-in and check-out processes. Many positive interactions are reported, with staff going out of their way to assist guests. However, a notable number of reviews describe staff as inexperienced, unorganized, and sometimes slow or unwelcoming, particularly in the restaurant. Specific issues include forgotten drink orders, incorrect bills, a lack of proactive assistance (e.g., regarding hot water problems), and perceived rudeness. While the hotel is praised for its family-friendly service and ability to host large events, the consistency of individual guest service can vary.

Additional Information
The hotel is a highly popular venue for weddings and other large events, which means certain areas can be very busy or noisy, potentially impacting the experience of regular hotel guests. The pet-friendly policy has been a point of confusion and mixed feedback; while some reviews indicate it is pet-friendly, others suggest the policy has changed or that there is an additional cost involved, leading to frustration for some pet owners. Guests should also be aware that roadworks near the hotel have been an ongoing issue, occasionally affecting access. Some rooms are located in separate buildings across a busy road, which might be a consideration for guests with mobility concerns or those preferring to stay within the main complex.