Most of our weekends are planned well in advance. Driven by a fear of missing out on something, our calendar is usually packed. Although we don't have children, our social life is busy enough, always trying to squeeze everything in.
However, there are those few weekends each year that we intentionally block out in our calendars to relax and slow down.
From January to early April, my work schedule is incredibly hectic. With events like Made in Asia and FACTS just weeks apart, my team and I work tirelessly to deliver our best. FACTS was last weekend, so now it's time for some rest and quality time.
On a whim, I decided to spend a night exploring the newly renovated La Réserve hotel in Knokke.
I hadn't been to the iconic La Réserve since 2004. That summer, I stayed by the sea and often went swimming at the old hotel. That's where I taught my boss’s daughter to swim.
In 2008, the old iconic hotel closed its doors for good, making way for a brand new building. The new La Réserve opened in 2011. Thirteen years later, it has new owners (Bart Versluys en Marc Coucke) and has undergone a complete renovation.
We stayed in a beautiful Casino View Room. The room was exactly what I expect from a hotel: beautifully decorated, well-appointed, every detail thoughtfully considered, and it featured both a separate bath and shower.
After checking in, we walked 6 km to 'T Werfje in Zeebrugge. 'T Werftje, once begun as a quaint fishing café, is set to celebrate its 120th anniversary in 2025 with... a closure. Forced by necessity, as the restaurant must yield to the arrival of the new seafarers. The café/restaurant is simple yet popular. You cannot reserve a table, which sometimes means waiting for a spot.
The menu features all the delightful Belgian seafood classics, with the shrimp croquettes from 't Werfje being my absolute favorite.
For those seeking a blend of relaxation and local charm, a weekend at La Réserve in Knokke might just be the perfect getaway. Whether it's enjoying the plush comforts of a renovated room or savoring the last bites of historical flavors at a local café, there's a unique blend of nostalgia and luxury at every turn.
About La Réserve
La Réserve Resort in Knokke-Heist is a true luxury getaway. It's the perfect place to escape and indulge in refined relaxation.
Elizabetlaan 160
8300 Knokke-Heist
Belgium
About 't Werftje Zeebrugge
Werfkaai 29
8380 Zeebrugge
Belgium