5 nights in a church in Belgium

From a 14th-century priory to a charming 1900s chapel, in Belgium you'll find churches and monasteries transformed into unique places to stay where history and contemporary comfort go hand in hand. Think of a former church on a green castle estate near Antwerp, a restored glass chapel in the quiet heart of Wallonia, or a 17th-century Carmelite monastery in the center of Ghent. Each of these places breathes centuries-old stories, but welcomes you with the comforts of today. Spending the night in such a special setting means sleeping among stained glass windows, monastery gardens and impressive architecture, often a short distance from lively cities and cultural gems. In this blog we take you to five breathtaking places where you can literally and figuratively spend the night among the vaults. On Vipio you will find many more special nights in a church, but you can also opt for a monastery stay.

On an idyllic castle estate just seven kilometers from Antwerp, you will find a former chapel from 1900 that has been transformed into a luxury vacation home. This special place combines the charm of historical architecture with all the comforts of today. Surrounded by peace and greenery, here you will enjoy a unique overnight stay in a church, away from the hustle and bustle but still close to the city. The chapel is hidden in the back of the private castle park, directly on an impressive 600 m² swimming pond. Inside, you'll find a bright living room with six-meter-high windows and an open kitchen with modern appliances. On the mezzanine is a comfortable double box-spring bed, while the steeple houses a surprising rain shower. The living area has room for two additional guests on the sofa bed. Outside, a private terrace with loungers awaits, and as a guest you are free to use the swimming pond and terraces.

In the middle of the greenery of the Antwerp Kempen lies an extraordinary domain dating back to the 14th century. Once a priory, part of a monastery, and today an atmospheric hotel where history and comfort come together. The main building still exudes grandeur, while the hotel rooms are housed in charming outbuildings on the estate. Each room features modern conveniences such as Wi-Fi, television and a spacious bathroom. Family rooms are available for families. Although you don't stay in the monastery itself, you can taste the atmosphere of the historical priory throughout. A short bike ride away is Turnhout, a city full of historical buildings, museums, boutiques and cozy eateries.

In the picturesque Les Petites Ardennes, just 30 kilometers from Brussels, stands a unique accommodation spot and last witness to the region's rich industrial glass past. Built in 1930 as a house of worship and showroom for the famous Marbrite glass, this remarkable structure is now a fully restored accommodation with a small museum. Inside you will find more than 300 pieces from the glass production of Verreries de Fauquez. The peaceful surroundings, with valleys, forests and charming villages, are perfect for hiking and biking. A stay at the Glass Chapel is a combination of culture, history and nature.

In the historical heart of Ghent you will find a beautiful 17th-century Carmelite monastery, an oasis of peace and greenery. Thanks to its central location, you can easily walk to the most famous sights, while you can completely unwind in the serene monastery garden with its pond and lush flora. The rooms have been recently renovated and offer modern comfort in a sober style that matches the monastic atmosphere. Each room has a private bathroom, desk, air conditioning, heating and free wifi. There is deliberately no television so that you can truly unwind.

In Diksmuide, West Flanders, you can stay overnight with a company of up to 12 people in a fully equipped neo-Gothic church. This group accommodation is only rented in its entirety, ideal for a family weekend, friends outing or staff meeting. There are six wooden sleeping pods, each with its own patron saint, two bathrooms, a dining and sitting area, bar with game room and a movie room with beamer. The 38-meter spire offers a spectacular view of the Westhoek. Right outside starts the 'Stiltepad', a walking and cycling path along a historical WWI trench.

Have you become enthusiastic about the idea of sleeping in a church or monastery, but haven't found your perfect stay here yet? Then be sure to take a look at our other blogs, such as Spending the night in a parsonage or Spending the night in a historical building. You might just be surprised by something completely different, from sleeping in a castle to staying in an old water tower or staying overnight in a monumental mansion. Whatever you choose, on Vipio you will always find accommodations with a unique story. So your next trip will definitely be one to remember.

Do you own a former church, chapel or monastery that has been converted into a place to sleep and would you like to rent it on Vipio, just like many other owners? Then contact our team at sales@vipio.com. We will be happy to tell you more about the benefits of Vipio and how you can offer your accommodation. Otherwise, visit our owners page and read more information about listing on Vipio.