Hotel The Lodge Vilvoorde

Historic hotel in a former jail in Vilvoorde, 15 minutes from Brussels

History & Ambiance

Hotel The Lodge Vilvoorde occupies a former correctional facility, preserving its original architecture with high ceilings, exposed steel beams, and apparent PVC pipes. Informative displays placed throughout the communal areas tell the story of the building's prison past, adding a layer of historical storytelling. The prison-themed decor extends to the bar area and breakfast room, where guests can examine old cell doors and period features while enjoying Belgium beers.

Wellness & Spa

The hotel operates a small spa & wellness centre with a sauna, hammam, and hot tub available for private hire at €40 per hour. A fitness center on site allows guests to maintain workout routines without leaving the property. The wellness area is described by guests as private and relaxing, though the bubble bath and shower drain have been reported as occasionally needing maintenance.

Rooms & Suites

Accommodation ranges from Standard Double Rooms to Superior Family Rooms, many located on the third-floor attic with exposed wooden beams and large windows. The Comfort Double Room offers generous floor space with a king-size bed, sofa, work desk, and separate toilet, while Superior Family Rooms can sleep two adults and two children using a pull-out couch. All rooms are air-conditioned, allergy-free, and equipped with flat-screen TVs and minibars; however, some attic rooms are not reachable by the lift (which stops at level 2).

Dining & Breakfast

A free buffet breakfast is served each morning with hot and cold options, including freshly baked pastries, a choice of breads, cheese, cold cuts, and a coffee machine that produces excellent coffee. The breakfast hours are flexible, with food consistently refilled until closing time, allowing late risers to enjoy the same variety. The on-site bar offers a selection of Belgium beers and wines, with packed lunches available on request for day trips.

Location & Convenience

The hotel sits 15 minutes by car from Brussels and Brussels Airport, with Vilvoorde Railway Station a 10-minute walk away for train connections to Mechelen and the capital. On-site public parking costs €6 per day, with free parking from Saturday evening until Monday morning, and two electric vehicle charging stations are available. Nearby attractions include the National Botanic Garden of Belgium, Park Rolleveld, and the Museum of Old Techniques, with multiple restaurants and a Pizza Hut within a 5-minute walk.

• History: Housed in a former correctional facility with prison-themed decor and historical displays
• Breakfast: Free buffet breakfast with flexible hours and refills until closing time
• Wellness: Fitness center, sauna, hammam, hot tub, and spa & wellness centre (€40/hour)
• Parking: Free overnight and weekend parking (Saturday evening to Monday morning)
• Location: 15-minute drive from Brussels, 10-minute walk to Vilvoorde Railway Station
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible rooms with grab rails and lower bathroom sinks
• Sustainability: Electric vehicle charging station on-site