Sleepover: Hotel Amigo

A bed in Brussels

Where is it?

In a perfect location at the centre of the city, barely 100 yards from the magnificent Grand Place and near inviting bars, bakeries and chocolate shops.

Describe the setting

The Amigo has a Spanish flavour, combined with fresh, modern interiors. It is on the site of a prison where Karl Marx was briefly held. Original paving stones from the prison remain.

Does it have a USP?

Its location: Some rooms have views across to the Grand Place.

Comfort factor?

High, with the trimmings you would expect in a five-star joint claiming to be the best in town. The hotel has 177 rooms, including 11 suites. The king-sized beds are the right side of firm. All rooms have prints by the Surrealists René Magritte and Marcel Broodthaers.

What's in the bathroom?

Huge, over-sized bath, marble vanity tops and plenty of must-snaffle Rocco Forte own-brand toiletries. My bathroom displayed a framed figure of Snowy, the dog from Tintin.

I'm hungry

The Amigo's all-you-can eat buffet breakfast will keep you going, possibly for several days. This is your chance to see just what 200 pains aux chocolat look like. You can also enjoy well-priced (£2.50) afternoon tea with petits four in the bar and lounge. The refurbished Le Verlaine restaurant, all sleek white lines, wooden floors and glass, serves modern and traditional food.

What are the people like?

They range from well-heeled tourists to visiting European politicians and business people, as well as manageably sized Japanese tour groups. The staff are relaxed and friendly.

Local interest

The Grand Place should be top of your list. The gables and old merchants' guilds make this one of Europe's prettiest squares. The streets around the Bourse have glorious Art Nouveau bars and waffle stands.

Access for all?

Five rooms for people who require wheelchairs. Children welcome.

What's the damage?

Weekend rates from €195 (£130) to €500 (£333) per room per night, including breakfast. Check the hotel's website for offers.

Address

Hotel Amigo: Rue de l'Amigo 1-3, Brussels 1000, Belgium (00 32 2 547 4747; www.hotelamigo.com).