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After an impressive metamorphosis, Hostellerie Kemmelberg will reopen its doors on 18 March 2025. The legendary hotel-restaurant, a favourite spot for bon vivants since 1954, has been given a new lease of life. The Desmet and De Nolf entrepreneurial families gave the heritage back its grandeur, with a modern touch and an authentic, warm atmosphere. “We want people to not just stay here, but really experience it,” says Robbert Desmet, co-owner and entrepreneur behind Woodstoxx. “Whether you come for a gastronomic experience, a wonderful weekend away or a party to remember, Hostellerie Kemmelberg 2.0 is a place that inspires and surprises,” adds General Manager Cédric Decaestecker.
Since its opening in 1954, Hostellerie Kemmelberg has been a hotspot for the French elite, Belgian industrialists and even the royal family. Its unique location, phenomenal views and refined cuisine attracted gourmets, businesses and epicureans from far and wide. Yet it was time for renewal. In 2023, the entrepreneurial families Desmet (Decospan, Woodstoxx) and De Nolf (Roularta, Monavisa) saw an opportunity to breathe new life into the heritage.
“I had been coming here for years for strategic meetings with the Woodstoxx team,” says Robbert Desmet, one of the driving forces behind the reopening. “Those moments here were always magical. At first I thought about turning it into a holiday home, but gradually it became clear: this place deserves a full-fledged top-level hotel.” Together with the De Nolf family, an ambitious renovation plan was launched. The result: a contemporary hostellerie with character, where guests are welcome for overnight stays, culinary experiences, business meetings and events.
To lead the hotel, Cédric Decaestecker was appointed General Manager by the two families. With over a decade of experience at international hotel groups such as Scandic, Hilton, Apollo and Mercure, he knows better than anyone how to combine a unique guest experience with operational excellence. “Hostellerie Kemmelberg has everything to become a high-end destination, both for individual guests and companies,” says Decaestecker. “Our goal is to create a place where guests immediately feel at home, with a high level of hospitality and service.”
Hostellerie Kemmelberg exudes history but feels fresh and contemporary. The 22 stylish rooms, including 6 suites, combine the charm of yesteryear with modern luxury. The interior design by Maister (Roeselare) combines authentic wood tones, warm colours and modern elegance, creating a timeless, homely atmosphere.
And the experience does not stop at the interior. Guests can have breakfast on the terrace overlooking the valley, relax in the spa with sauna, hammam and outdoor jacuzzi, or enjoy a gourmet dinner at sunset in the evening. Chef Maikel Rogie, known from Eethuis Pieter (Roeselare) and Oud Stadhuis (Geluwe), provides that gastronomic experience. ’He cooks classic French-Belgian dishes, but always with a twist. Seasonal, local and refined, without pretence: we want guests to not just eat here, but have a total experience. Maikel and his wife, who will also work at the hotel, are, by the way, moving to Kemmelberg to devote themselves fully to the project,“ Desmet says.
“We choose refined gastronomy, but with an approachable, warm atmosphere. You feel immediately welcome here, whether you are a culinary gourmet or just want to enjoy a good glass of wine with a view,” Decaestecker stresses.
Besides individual guests, groups and companies are also welcome at Hostellerie Kemmelberg. With two meeting rooms and flexible event spaces, it is the ideal location for seminars, teambuildings and parties. “We notice that companies are increasingly looking for inspiring places,” says Decaestecker. “Here you combine a business focus with relaxation, and in a unique setting.” For special occasions - from weddings and anniversaries to intimate private dinners - the hotel can even be hired out completely. And then there is The Vault, the exclusive wine cellar for lovers of a good glass in style.
There are places you visit and quickly forget again. Hostellerie Kemmelberg is not one of those places. “The panoramic view, the breathtaking nature, the classy and welcoming atmosphere: that is the magic of Kemmelberg. We want to give everyone who comes here an experience to remember,” Desmet concludes.
