Despite its size . . . there are 266 rooms . . . and somewhat unprepossessing facade, the Windsor evokes a quiet refinement from another era, while the smart lobby takes you back to a time before boutique hotels were all the rage.

What's the best thing?

The exclusive 'Fashion Rooms'. They really set it apart. There are currently 10, with plans for two more, and each has been individually conceived by Belgian fashion designers such as Pascale Kervan and Haider Ackermann.

Choose between the velvet opulence dreamed up by Nicolas Woit or Romy Smits' futuristic decor in the 'Rebirth Suite'.

Will it break the bank?

A standard double is 126 per night. An extra 95 a night gets you a 'Fashion Room'. Breakfast is extra at 25 per person but worth it for the fresh pastries and waffles as well as the smoked salmon.

Want to know more?

Royal Windsor Hotel, 5 Rue Duquesnoy, 1000 Brussels, Belgium, 0032 2 5055555; www.

royalwindsorbrussels. com