Located in Lanaken, Belgium, La Butte Aux Bois is a luxurious five-star hotel and spa nestled in a tranquil and natural setting. Surrounded by 12 hectares of parkland, this peaceful retreat is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its elegant rooms, award-winning restaurant, and top-notch facilities, La Butte Aux Bois offers a truly indulgent experience for its guests.
In this review, we will delve into the details of what makes La Butte Aux Bois a must-visit destination for luxury travelers. From its impeccable service to its stunning surroundings, we will explore every aspect of this exquisite hotel and spa. So, sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey through the beauty and splendor of La Butte Aux Bois.
1. The Rooms and Suites: An Elegant Blend of Classic and Modern Design
The spacious and stylish rooms and suites at La Butte Aux Bois are designed to provide guests with the utmost comfort and relaxation. Each room is individually decorated, combining classic charm with modern amenities. The soft color palette and plush furnishings create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making you feel right at home.
The Deluxe Room: A Cozy Haven
The Deluxe Room at La Butte Aux Bois is perfect for those seeking a cozy and intimate stay. With an area of 35 square meters, these rooms feature a comfortable king-size bed, a writing desk, and a seating area. The large windows allow plenty of natural light to flood in, offering views of the lush greenery outside. The Deluxe Room also includes a marble bathroom with a walk-in shower and luxurious toiletries.
To ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for their guests, each Deluxe Room is equipped with a range of amenities, including:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Flat-screen TV with a wide selection of channels
- Nespresso coffee machine
- Mini-bar
- Safe deposit box
- Slippers and bathrobes
- Air conditioning
The Suite: A Spacious and Elegant Retreat
For those looking for a more indulgent stay, the Suites at La Butte Aux Bois are the perfect choice. These suites range from 55 to 65 square meters and offer separate living and sleeping areas. The luxurious king-size bed, plush sofas, and elegant furnishings create a refined and sophisticated ambiance.
The Suites also feature a marble bathroom with a walk-in shower and a bathtub, adding a touch of luxury to your stay. The large windows in the suite let in plenty of natural light and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding parkland. Some suites even have a private balcony or terrace, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
In addition to the amenities available in the Deluxe Room, the Suite also includes:
- Complimentary access to the wellness facilities
- Fresh fruit and mineral water upon arrival
- Selection of magazines and newspapers
- Evening turndown service
- Bath salts for a relaxing soak in the tub
2. Dining at La Butte Aux Bois: A Culinary Journey of Flavors
At La Butte Aux Bois, dining is not just about satisfying your hunger, but also about experiencing a gastronomic journey. Led by award-winning chef Ralf Berendsen, the hotel’s restaurant offers an exceptional culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
Restaurant La Source: A Michelin-Starred Dining Experience
La Source is the crown jewel of La Butte Aux Bois, boasting a Michelin star for its exceptional cuisine. The elegant and intimate restaurant offers a menu inspired by French and Italian flavors, using only the freshest local ingredients. Chef Ralf Berendsen and his team create culinary masterpieces that are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.
The restaurant’s cozy and intimate atmosphere, with only 30 seats, adds to the overall dining experience. The attentive and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the menu, helping you make the perfect choice for your meal. Be sure to try their signature dishes, such as the North Sea sole fillet or the roasted lamb with thyme jus, for a true taste of excellence.
Bistro Gourmand: A Casual yet Flavorful Option
For a more laid-back dining experience, head over to Bistro Gourmand at La Butte Aux Bois. The casual yet elegant bistro offers a mix of French and Belgian cuisine, with a focus on seasonal and regional ingredients. The relaxed ambiance of the bistro makes it the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends and family.
Start your meal with a selection of fresh oysters or a savory beef carpaccio before moving on to their famous steak frites or the catch of the day. Save room for dessert, as their decadent chocolate fondant is not to be missed. With its extensive wine list, Bistro Gourmand is also the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a glass of wine after a day of exploring.
3. The Spa: Relax, Rejuvenate, and Refresh Your Mind, Body, and Soul
After a day of sightseeing or simply to indulge in some pampering, look no further than the Mosaqua Wellness Center at La Butte Aux Bois. This award-winning spa focuses on holistic wellness, offering a range of treatments and facilities to help you relax, rejuvenate, and refresh your mind, body, and soul.
The Thermal Zone: A Journey Through Water and Heat
The Thermal Zone at Mosaqua is a haven of relaxation, featuring an indoor pool with massaging jets, a Turkish steam bath, and an infrared sauna. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the Thermal Zone is the perfect place to unwind and let go of any tension or stress.
Start your journey through water and heat by taking a dip in the heated pool, followed by some time in the Turkish steam bath. The moist heat will open up your pores, helping to cleanse your skin and detoxify your body. Next, try the infrared sauna, which uses infrared rays to penetrate deep into your muscles, promoting relaxation and healing.
Spa Treatments: Pamper Yourself with Luxurious Treatments
The spa menu at Mosaqua includes a variety of treatments, ranging from massages to facials, designed to cater to every need and preference. Using natural products from luxury brands such as Valmont and Jo Malone, the skilled therapists will help you achieve ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
For a truly indulgent experience, try the “Mosaqua Signature Treatment,” a full-body massage using hot stones and essential oils to release tension and promote deep relaxation. Or, opt for a facial treatment, tailored to your specific skin type and needs, to give your skin a radiant glow. Whatever treatment you choose, you are sure to leave the spa feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
4. Activities and Experiences: Explore the Beauty of Lanaken and Beyond
La Butte Aux Bois offers a range of activities and experiences for its guests to discover the beauty of Lanaken and its surroundings. From outdoor adventures to cultural excursions, there is something for everyone to enjoy during their stay.
Cycling and Hiking: Explore the Beautiful Surroundings
With its location in the middle of nature, La Butte Aux Bois is the perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts. The hotel offers complimentary bicycles for guests to explore the surrounding area at their own pace. Take a leisurely ride through the parkland, or venture out to nearby national parks such as Hoge Kempen or De Meinweg.
For those who prefer to explore on foot, the hotel also has a selection of hiking routes available. Whether you are looking for a short stroll or a more challenging hike, there is something for every level of fitness and interest. The friendly staff at La Butte Aux Bois will be happy to provide you with recommendations and maps to help you plan your adventure.
Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Belgian Culture
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, La Butte Aux Bois has got you covered. The hotel offers a range of cultural experiences, from culinary workshops to art exhibitions, allowing guests to get a taste of Belgian life.
Join one of their cooking classes, where you can learn how to make traditional Flemish dishes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Or, attend one of their musical evenings, featuring live performances by renowned artists. For art lovers, the hotel regularly hosts art exhibitions showcasing both local and international talent.
5. Meetings and Events: A Picturesque Setting for Your Next Event
With its stunning surroundings and top-notch facilities, La Butte Aux Bois is the perfect venue for meetings and events. Whether you are planning a business conference, a team-building retreat, or a special occasion, the hotel’s experienced staff will ensure that every detail is taken care of to make your event a success.
Meeting Facilities: A Professional Setting for Productive Meetings
La Butte Aux Bois offers four meeting rooms, fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology and amenities, to cater to all your business needs. Each room has natural daylight, ensuring a bright and airy setting for your meeting. The hotel also provides customizable packages that include meals, coffee breaks, and additional services to make your event a seamless and successful one.
Weddings and Special Occasions: A Romantic Setting for an Unforgettable Day
For those looking for a picturesque and romantic setting for their special day, La Butte Aux Bois is an ideal choice. The hotel offers personalized wedding packages, tailored to your preferences and budget, to make your dream wedding a reality.
Whether you prefer a small intimate ceremony or a grand celebration with all your loved ones, the hotel’s stunning gardens and elegant banquet halls provide the perfect backdrop for your special day. With its experienced event planners and dedicated staff, you can be assured that your wedding or special occasion at La Butte Aux Bois will be nothing short of magical.
6. Sustainability Efforts: A Commitment to the Environment and Local Community
At La Butte Aux Bois, sustainability is not just a buzzword, but a way of life. The hotel is committed to minimizing its impact on the environment and supporting the local community through various initiatives and practices.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Reducing the Carbon Footprint
The hotel has implemented numerous eco-friendly practices to reduce its carbon footprint, such as:
- Using energy-efficient lighting and appliances
- Encouraging guests to reuse towels and linens to conserve water and energy
- Installing solar panels to generate clean energy
- Promoting recycling and waste reduction among staff and guests
La Butte Aux Bois also offers electric car charging facilities for its guests, promoting the use of sustainable transportation methods.
Supporting the Local Community: Giving Back in Meaningful Ways
The hotel is actively involved in supporting the local community through various initiatives, such as:
- Collaborating with local suppliers and businesses to source ingredients and products
- Donating excess food to charities and organizations
- Providing internships and job opportunities for locals
- Supporting local charities and organizations through donations and fundraising events
By taking these initiatives, La Butte Aux Bois demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and giving back to the community.
Conclusion: A Luxurious Retreat in Harmony with Nature
In conclusion, La Butte Aux Bois offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience for its guests. From its elegant rooms and award-winning restaurant to its top-notch facilities and breathtaking surroundings, every aspect of this hotel exudes luxury and tranquility. Whether you are seeking a relaxing getaway or a cultural adventure, La Butte Aux Bois has something for everyone.
With its commitment to sustainability and supporting the local community, La Butte Aux Bois is not just a luxurious retreat, but a responsible and ethical one as well. So, if you are planning your next vacation or event, make sure to consider La Butte Aux Bois for an indulgent and unforgettable experience.
