If you’ve been following the blog for a while, you probably remember that I recently added a new section with great spots to stay in Brussels. And it didn’t take long to discover a real gem right in the historic centre of the city: Yawn.

Just a stone’s throw from the famous Zinneke Pis statue (fun fact: it’s part of the urinating statue trio in Brussels together with Manneken Pis and Jeanneke Pis), Yawn is the brainchild of Eugene who decided to create a different accommodation concept after 25 years of working for big corporate hotel chains around the world. What he came up with is a group of furnished apartments and rooms full of personality in a renovated 19th century house. Every room is decorated in a different way but they are all equally beautiful – that’s why it was really difficult for me to pick one when booking.

My partner in crime and I finally stayed at Hirsch, a cozy and bright studio which was home for a whole weekend. The space was a wonderful mix of classic elements with modern details: high ceilings, timber flooring, a gorgeous marble fireplace, a discoball as well as an interesting collection of art and books that subtly evokes Eugene’s years at the Soviet Union back in the day. The name of the room is also a hint to Brussels-born Audrey Hepburn who used to have a baby deer (hirsch in German) as a pet. The location proved really convenient too – a short walk away from the Grand Place, the lively bars of Saint-Géry, the trendy boutiques on Rue Dansaert and Sainte-Catherine where one can find many great foodie spots, like Umamido, Ellis, Charli, Jack O’ Shea Chophouse and Noordzee.

The room was really clean, quiet and so lovely that these two days felt like a real holiday even though I was just a metro ride away from home. A highlight was definitely the breakfast basket Eugene delivered to our room in the morning – can I have this every weekend please?! Eugene himself is the heart and soul of the place, we couldn’t have asked for a better host. He also runs Yawn Space, a concept store with cool jewelery and fashion just around the corner that also serves as a reception for the rooms. 

If you’re looking for a place with character to stay while in Brussels, Yawn is the spot for you. There are several rooms depending on your requirements, so have a look at the website to pick the one that’s just right for you!