Planning a road trip from the United Kingdom to Belgium can be an exciting adventure, but long drives can be exhausting. Taking a break and staying overnight in a hotel en route is essential for safety and comfort. It’s vital to remain alert while driving, and a proper night’s sleep can significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by fatigue. By incorporating a restful stopover, you not only ensure a safer journey but also make the trip more enjoyable, allowing you to explore more of the beautiful surroundings without the pressure of rushing to your destination.
Hotels along popular routes to Belgium
If you’re driving from the UK to Belgium, one of the most popular routes is via the Channel Tunnel or ferry to Calais and then on through France. There are several convenient hotels near major highways that make perfect overnight stops. For instance, along the A16 in France, you’ll find numerous hotels that cater specifically to motorists, offering easy access to and from the highway. These hotels often provide secure parking, early breakfasts, and sometimes even special amenities for those traveling with pets.
Some recommended hotels along this route include:
- Holiday Inn Calais – Located near the Eurotunnel, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, ample parking, and an on-site restaurant. It’s a great option if you’re looking to rest right after crossing the Channel.
- Novotel Lille Aéroport – Situated close to the A1 highway, this hotel provides a modern and relaxing environment. It’s perfect for those who want to drive a bit further before taking a break.
- Ibis Styles Calais Tunnel – Conveniently located near the Eurotunnel terminal, this hotel is ideal for a quick and hassle-free overnight stay.
Choosing a hotel that is easily accessible from the highway can save time and make the journey smoother. Most of these hotels are designed to cater to road-trippers, ensuring that you have a restful night before continuing your drive to Belgium.
Booking advice for travelers on the way to Belgium
When it comes to booking a hotel for your road trip to Belgium, you have two main options: booking in advance or making a last-minute reservation. Each has its own advantages.
Booking in advance gives you the peace of mind that you have a guaranteed place to stay. It allows you to choose from a wider selection of hotels and room types, and you can often take advantage of early booking discounts. This is especially important during peak travel seasons or holidays when hotels along popular routes can fill up quickly. Using HelloRoadTrip.com makes this process easy and convenient. You can plan your entire journey by entering your starting city and final destination, specifying how far or how many hours you wish to drive before stopping. You’ll receive recommendations on the best places to stay and can book directly through partners like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com.
On the other hand, last-minute reservations can be beneficial if you’re uncertain about your travel schedule or prefer flexibility. Some hotels offer discounted rates for same-day bookings, so you might snag a great deal. However, this approach is riskier, especially if you’re traveling during a busy period.
Sights and rest spots along the route to Belgium
A road trip is not just about the destination but also the journey. There are several interesting places to explore and rest spots along the way to Belgium that can add some excitement to your trip.
- Dover, UK: Before crossing the Channel, consider stopping in Dover. The iconic White Cliffs and Dover Castle offer breathtaking views and historical insights. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and take in some scenery.
- Lille, France: If you’re traveling via Calais, Lille is an excellent stop for a short break. This charming city boasts a beautiful old town with cobblestone streets, the impressive Grand Place, and several museums.
- Bruges, Belgium: Once you’ve crossed into Belgium, Bruges is a must-visit. Known for its picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and delicious chocolate, it’s worth taking a few hours to explore before continuing to your final destination.
- Aire de la Baie de Somme: Located on the A16 in France, this rest area is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. It offers a scenic spot to take a break, with a peaceful lake and plenty of green space for a picnic or a short walk.
Taking advantage of these rest spots can make your journey more enjoyable, giving you a chance to relax and experience new places along the way.
Frequently asked questions about hotels in Belgium
It depends on your preferences. Highway hotels offer easy access and quick departure, which is ideal for a stopover. City hotels provide more amenities and the opportunity to explore local attractions but may require navigating through city traffic.
Some hotels offer day-use rooms or flexible check-in/check-out times. It’s best to check directly with the hotel or use HelloRoadTrip.com to find options that suit your schedule.
Yes, most hotels along popular routes offer parking facilities. Some even provide secure or covered parking for an additional fee. It’s advisable to check the hotel’s parking policy when booking.
Absolutely. Many hotels cater to families, offering amenities such as family rooms, children’s menus, and play areas. Use HelloRoadTrip.com to find hotels with family-friendly features.
Cancellation policies vary by hotel. Some offer free cancellation up to a certain date, while others have stricter policies. When booking through HelloRoadTrip.com, you can review the hotel’s cancellation policy before confirming your reservation.
Yes, many hotels in Belgium offer late check-in options, especially those near major highways or in popular tourist areas. If you expect to arrive late, it’s a good idea to inform the hotel in advance or use the self-check-in kiosks that some hotels provide.
Many hotels in Belgium are pet-friendly and allow guests to bring their pets for an additional fee. However, policies vary, so it’s important to check with the hotel beforehand. You can use HelloRoadTrip.com to filter hotels that accommodate pets.
Most hotels in Belgium offer breakfast, which can be included in the room rate or available for an additional charge. Breakfast options range from continental to buffet-style, offering a convenient start to your day. Be sure to check the booking details on HelloRoadTrip.com to see if breakfast is included.
By planning your journey with a hotel stopover, you ensure a safer and more pleasant road trip to Belgium. Using HelloRoadTrip.com makes it easy to find and book the best accommodations along your route, so you can focus on enjoying the drive and exploring new destinations.